Hyundai Elantra Vs. Nissan Sentra Specs & More Compared

Sedan shoppers seeking an advanced and fuel-efficient compact car will likely compare the Hyundai Elantra vs. Nissan Sentra. These two small sedans provide impressive efficiency, excellent value, and a surprisingly spacious interior. However, only one model can come out on top, and that's what we're here to find out. Continue reading as we at Potamkin Hyundai compare the 2025 Nissan Sentra vs. Hyundai Elantra in terms of performance, dimensions, and features.
Nissan Sentra vs. Hyundai Elantra at a Glance
- The Elantra and Sentra come standard with a 2.0-liter engine, but the Elantra also offers an available turbocharged unit
- The Hyundai Elantra is more fuel-efficient than the Nissan Sentra, returning up to an EPA-estimated 32/41 MPG (City/Highway)1
- Both models are compact sedans, but the Elantra is longer, wider, and more spacious inside
- Regarding features, the Hyundai Elantra has a more expansive and impressive spread of standard equipment

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 when it comes to power output, with the Sentra at 149 horsepower and the Elantra at 147 horsepower. The base trim of the Elantra also tips the scales at a significantly lower weight than the Sentra, making it the better choice when seeking an agile and 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 to our surprise, the 2025 Elantra earns greater MPG. It returns up to an EPA-estimated 32/41 MPG (City/Highway),1 thanks to its sleek, aerodynamic design and efficiency-focused standard engine. The Nissan Sentra trails the Hyundai Elantra by two miles per gallon in city driving and one MPG during highway cruising when viewing its maximum MPG figures.

Hyundai Elantra vs. Nissan Sentra Dimensions
The Potamkin Hyundai team is here to tell you more about the differences between the 2025 Nissan Sentra and 2025 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 (94.1 or 96.1 cubic feet), which both front- and second-row occupants will surely appreciate. Trunk space is nearly identical, with both providing a generous cargo area for a compact sedan. View some Hyundai Elantra vs. Nissan Sentra images to get a better sense of these models' sizes.
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2025 Hyundai Elantra | 2025 Nissan Sentra | |
---|---|---|
Engine | 2.0L 4-cyl / 1.6L turbo 4-cyl | 2.0L 4-cyl |
Transmission | IVT / DCT | CVT |
Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
Horsepower | 147 / 201 | 149 |
Torque | 132 / 195 lb-ft | 146 lb-ft |
Max EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy) | 32 / 411 | 30 / 402 |
Length | 184.1 in | 182.9 in |
Width | 71.9 in | 71.5 in |
Height | 55.7 - 55.9 in | 56.9 - 57 in |
Wheelbase | 107.1 in | 106.6 in |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Passenger Volume | 99.4 cu ft | 94.1 - 96.1 cu ft |
Headroom (Front / Rear) | 38.7 - 40.6 / 37.3 - 38.7 in | 37.5 - 38.9 / 36.7 in |
Legroom (Front / Rear) | 42.3 / 38 in | 43.8 / 34.9 in |
Trunk Space | 14.2 cu ft | 14.3 cu ft |

New Elantra vs. Sentra Standard Features
Upgrade your drive with a 2025 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, 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:
- Halogen headlights
- Steel wheels
- 7-inch touchscreen
- Wired smartphone integration
- Blind Spot Warning
- One USB port
- Intelligent Driver Alertness
- High Beam Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Hyundai Elantra vs. Nissan Sentra Trim Levels
The 2025 Hyundai Elantra lineup gives you one additional trim level compared to the 2025 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 Convenience
- 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 2025 Sentra:
- Sentra S
- Sentra SV
- Sentra SR
- Sentra SR Midnight Edition
As you continue your research and compare the Hyundai Elantra vs. Nissan Sentra reliability, comfort, exterior features, and more, reach out to our team if you have any questions or require assistance. 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 the Nissan Sentra. The 2025 Elantra features 99.4 cubic feet of passenger space for five occupants and 14.2 cubic feet of trunk room. The 2025 Sentra only provides up to 96.1 cubic feet for passengers; it has 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 2025 Hyundai Elantra earns an EPA-estimated 32/41 MPG (City/Highway)1 rating. The base-model 2025 Nissan Sentra S can only muster up an EPA-estimated 30/40 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 that generates 201 horsepower. Sadly for Sentra sedan shoppers, the only option this Nissan compact car offers is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 149 horsepower. Enjoy more available power with the Elantra.
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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.
22025 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. 30 City MPG / 40 Highway MPG / 34 Combined MPG for Sentra. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.