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There are two relatively new hybrid sedans on the scene this year, the 2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid and the 2021 Toyota Corolla Hybrid. But of the two, which fuel-sipping hybrid should you choose? Let’s find out.

2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid
2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | Hyundai

What the 2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid has going for it

For the first time, Hyundai is offering the Elantra with a hybrid powertrain. Driven by a 1.6-liter GDI Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine, the 2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid’s permanent-magnet electric motor delivers 32 kW powered by a lithium-ion polymer battery with 1.32 kWh of capacity. Combined, this hybrid sedan delivers 139-hp and up to 195 lb-ft of torque.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid offers no shortage of tech-savvy interior features either. Available with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, the all-new Hyundai Elantra Hybrid is also available with the Blue Link Connected Car System, QI wireless charging, and a Bose premium sound system.

What the 2021 Toyota Corolla Hybrid has going for it

According to Toyota, the 2021 Toyota Corolla Hybrid is the complete package. Driven by a 121-hp 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine, this hybrid also offers multiple driving modes, including Normal, Power, and ECO driving modes.

Much like the 2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid, the Toyota Corolla Hybrid has plenty of sought-after features to offer too. Standard on all models is an 8-inch touchscreen display featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Toyota Corolla Hybrid is also available with a premium navigation system, Sirius XM Satellite Radio, and Wi-Fi Connect with a complimentary 2 GB 3-month trial.

Which of these models is more fuel-efficient?

Both of these sedans are hybrids. Meaning, each has been designed to make the most out of every gallon you put into it. But, of the two, is one more fuel-efficient than the other? 

According to Toyota’s numbers, the 2021 Toyota Corolla Hybrid delivers an estimated 52 combined mpg. The 2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid, on the other hand, is projected by Hyundai to have a combined estimated fuel economy rating of 50 mpg or more. 

This is how much these hybrid sedans will cost you

These two hybrid models are very similar in price. While the 2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid starts at $23,550, the 2021 Toyota Corolla Hybrid rings in at $23,400. 

Both come standard with some pretty great perks

The similarities continue when it comes to ownership perks. Hyundai provides all new Hyundai owners with three years or 36,000 miles (whichever comes first) of complimentary maintenance. Toyota Corolla Hybrid owners will enjoy a similar perk with ToyotaCare, which also provides complimentary maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Both vehicles also benefit from extensive warranty coverage. All Hyundai hybrid models are covered by a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty, and a 10-year/100,000-mile hybrid system components warranty.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla Hybrid, on the other hand, benefits from a 36-month/36,000-mile basic warranty, a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a 96-month/100,000-mile hybrid system warranty.

Is the 2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid the right choice for you? Or does the 2021 Toyota Corolla Hybrid make for the better pick?

When it comes down to it, these hybrid models are pretty similar. While the Elantra Hybrid is the more powerful hybrid of the two, both cars offer similar interior features, ownership perks, and warranty coverage. In the end, deciding between these two models is going to require a test drive.

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