Hyundai Elantra Vs. Nissan Sentra Comparison
Sedan shoppers seeking an advanced and fuel-efficient compact car will likely compare the Hyundai Elantra vs. Nissan Sentra. These two nimble sedans provide impressive efficiency, excellent value, and a surprisingly spacious interior. However, we believe that the Elantra is the true winner in this competition, outpacing the Sentra in several essential categories. Continue reading as we at Potamkin Hyundai compare the 2026 Nissan Sentra vs. Hyundai Elantra in terms of performance, dimensions, and features.
Nissan Sentra vs. Hyundai Elantra Specs: Power & Efficiency
Both sedans pack a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine under the hood. They are neck and neck in power output, with the Sentra at 149 horsepower and the Elantra at 147 horsepower. The Elantra's base trim also tips the scales at a significantly lower weight than the Sentra's, making it the better choice for an agile, peppy ride.
The Hyundai Elantra is the only model in this compact car comparison that offers a more potent powertrain. Standard in the top N Line trim, the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine develops a thrilling 201 horsepower.
How do the Hyundai Elantra vs. Nissan Sentra compare in terms of fuel efficiency? Not surprisingly, the 2026 Elantra earns better MPG. It returns up to an EPA-estimated 31/40 MPG (City/Highway),1 thanks to its sleek, aerodynamic design and efficiency-focused standard engine. The Nissan Sentra trails the Hyundai Elantra by 1 less MPG in city driving and 2 less MPG on the highway when comparing their maximum MPG figures.2
Hyundai Elantra vs. Nissan Sentra Dimensions
The Potamkin Hyundai team is here to tell you more about the differences between the 2026 Nissan Sentra and 2026 Hyundai Elantra. These compact cars are similarly sized, but the Elantra is longer and broader, with a lower, more streamlined design. It also rides on a longer wheelbase, which translates to more passenger space inside.
The 99.4 cubic feet of total passenger volume inside the Elantra tops what you will find in the Sentra (96.1 cubic feet), which both front- and second-row occupants will surely appreciate. Trunk space is nearly identical at 14.2 cubic feet in the Elantra and 14.3 cubic feet in the Sentra, both providing a practical cargo area for a compact sedan. View images of the Hyundai Elantra vs. Nissan Sentra to get a better sense of their sizes.
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| 2026 Hyundai Elantra | 2026 Nissan Sentra | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L 4-cyl / available 1.6L turbo 4-cyl | 2.0L 4-cyl |
| Transmission | IVT / available Dual Clutch Transmission | CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Horsepower | 147 / available 201 | 149 |
| Torque | 132 / available 195 lb-ft | 146 lb-ft |
| Max EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy) | 31 / 40 1 | 30 / 382 |
| Length | 185.4 in | 183.3 in |
| Width | 71.9 in | 71.5 in |
| Height | 55.7 - 55.9 in | 57.1 in |
| Wheelbase | 107.1 in | 106.5 in |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Volume | 99.4 cu ft | 96.1 cu ft |
| Headroom (Front / Rear) | 38.7 - 40.6 / 37.3 in | 37.7 - 38.9 / 36.7 in |
| Legroom (Front / Rear) | 42.3 / 38 in | 44 / 34.8 in |
| Trunk Space | 14.2 cu ft | 14.3 cu ft |
New Elantra vs. Sentra Standard Features
Upgrade your drive with a 2026 Hyundai Elantra, and you will get a load of impressive standard features. The Elantra SE is the base model in position only, as it comes standard with a stellar list of amenities and tech, including the following:
- LED headlights and daytime running lights
- Alloy wheels
- 8-inch touchscreen
- Wireless smartphone integration
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Warning
- Front and rear dual USB ports
- HD Radioâ„¢
- Driver Attention Warning
- High Beam Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Safe Exit Warning
The Nissan Sentra S feels more like an entry-level compact car in some respects. By comparison, its standard features list is highlighted by the following:
- LED headlights
- Steel wheels
- 7-inch multi-information display
- Wireless smartphone integration
- Blind Spot Warning
- 3 USB ports
- Intelligent Driver Alertness
- High Beam Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Hyundai Elantra vs. Nissan Sentra Trim Levels
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra lineup has one additional trim level than the 2026 Nissan Sentra. Select from the following five trims when you shop for a new Hyundai Elantra for sale:
- Elantra SE
- Elantra SEL Sport
- Elantra SEL Sport Premium
- Elantra Limited
- Elantra N Line
Don't forget to view our latest Hyundai Elantra lease deals or finance offers for budget-friendly ways to get into your favorite Elantra edition.
Below are the trim options for the 2026 Sentra:
- Sentra S
- Sentra SV
- Sentra SR
- Sentra SL
It's easy to see that the Elantra offers a bit more at a still attractive price compared to the Sentra. If you're ready to make it yours, stop by our dealership today to get started! Our team will be happy to go into more detail about the Hyundai Elantra vs. Nissan Sentra reliability ratings, comfort, exterior features, and more. We look forward to working with you soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the interior space of the Hyundai Elantra compare to the Nissan Sentra?
The interior space of the Hyundai Elantra is larger than that of the Nissan Sentra. The 2026 Elantra has up to 99.4 cubic feet of passenger space and a cargo hold of 14.2 cubic feet. The 2026 Sentra only provides up to 96.1 cubic feet for passengers and contains 14.3 cubic feet in its trunk. Find a roomy Elantra at your Hyundai dealer.
Which car has better fuel efficiency: the Hyundai Elantra or the Nissan Sentra?
The Hyundai Elantra has better fuel efficiency. In its base trim, the SE, the 2026 Hyundai Elantra earns an EPA-estimated 31/40 MPG (City/Highway)1 rating. The entry-level 2026 Nissan Sentra S can only muster up an EPA-estimated 30/38 MPG (City/Highway).2 For greater fuel efficiency on the freeway and around town, choose the Hyundai Elantra.
What are the engine options for the Hyundai Elantra vs. the Nissan Sentra?
The engine options for the Hyundai Elantra are a 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 147 horsepower and a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder generating 201 horsepower. Sentra sedan shoppers are limited to only one choice; this Nissan compact car offers a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 149 horsepower. Enjoy more available power with the 2026 Elantra.
About The Author
Potamkin Hyundai is a premier Hyundai dealership located in Miami Lakes, FL, near Miami, and proudly recognized as one of the Top 12 Hyundai Dealers in the Nation. As the only Hyundai-exclusive dealer in the area, Potamkin Hyundai is a trusted authority on all things Hyundai. Their factory-trained technicians, knowledgeable sales experts, and commitment to customer satisfaction set them apart. Through the exclusive Potamkin Hyundai Advantage Program, customers enjoy benefits like free weekly car washes, diagnostic scans, and service discounts. With a reputation built on integrity, innovation, and exceptional care, Potamkin Hyundai continues to elevate the Miami car-buying experience.
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1All figures are EPA estimates and for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle's condition.
22026 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. 30 City MPG / 38 Highway MPG / 33 Combined MPG for Sentra. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.
