Toyota Corolla vs. The Competition

Toyota Corolla

Honda Civic

Nissan Sentra

Hyundai Elantra

Comparing the Toyota Corolla to the Competition

The 2026 Toyota Corolla is a standout vehicle in the compact car segment, offering a perfect blend of value, dependability, and advanced features. For car buyers in Prince Frederick, MD, and the nearby areas, it's essential to understand how the new Corolla compares to its top rivals. In this comprehensive comparison, we'll examine the Corolla's performance, fuel efficiency, technology, safety, and more against the Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, and Nissan Sentra.

** Price(s) include(s) all costs to be paid by a consumer including $799 documentation fee, except for licensing costs, registration fees, and taxes.

Vehicle Comparison

FeaturesToyota CorollaHonda Civic Nissan SentraHyundai Elantra
Engine2.0L I4 - 169 hp2.0L I4 - 150 hp2.0L I4 - 149 hp2.0L I4 - 147 hp
DrivetrainFront Wheel DriveFront Wheel DriveFront Wheel DriveFront Wheel Drive
Torque151 lb-ft133 lb-ft146 lb-ft132 lb-ft
TransmissionCVT (10-spd shiftable)CVTCVTCVT
Fuel Economy (Est.)35 mpg combined36 mpg combined34 mpg combined36 mpg combined
Length184-186 in.184.8 in.182.5 in.184.1 in.
Seating Capacity5555

Toyota Corolla vs. Honda Civic

The Honda Civic is a formidable competitor to the Corolla. Under the hood, the Corolla runs on a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 169 horsepower and 151 pounds of torque. The Civic's 2.0-liter engine offers slightly less power at 158 hp and 138 pounds of torque. Both engines are well-suited for daily commutes and highway cruising, but the Corolla's additional power gives it an edge. When it comes to fuel economy, the Corolla is a leader in its class. With an estimated 31 city, 40 highway, and 34 combined mpg, it outperforms the Civic's 30 city, 37 highway, and 33 combined mpg.

Inside, the Corolla features an eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The Civic offers a similar infotainment setup but lacks the wireless charging option. Both vehicles provide easy-to-navigate menus, ensuring a solid user experience.

Safety is a top priority for both the Corolla and Civic. Adaptive cruise and automatic emergency braking are offered on both models. However, the Corolla takes it a step further with its standard Road Sign Assist, which displays important road signs on the dashboard, and Rear Seat Reminder, which alerts drivers to check the back seat before exiting the vehicle. These additional features make the Corolla a more compelling option over the Civic.<

Toyota Corolla vs. Hyundai Elantra

The Hyundai Elantra is another strong contender. While the Elantra's 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 147 hp and 132 pounds of torque, it falls short of the Corolla's more powerful 2.0-liter 169 horsepower engine.

As for the model's fuel efficiency, the Corolla and Elantra offer similar numbers. The Corolla achieves an estimated 31 city, 40 highway, and 34 combined mpg. In comparison, the Elantra achieves 31 mpg city, 41 mpg highway, and 35 combined mpg. Since the fuel economy is so minor, you'll not even notice a difference, especially for drivers in Waldorf, MD, who spend a lot of time on the road.

As you make your way into both the Corolla and Elantra, you'll find each offers an eight-inch touchscreen and wireless device charging. However, the Corolla's infotainment system includes Amazon Alexa compatibility, which allows drivers to use voice commands to control various functions, such as playing music, setting reminders, or getting directions. This feature adds an extra level of convenience and hands-free operation that the Elantra lacks.

Safety is a top priority for both models as each offers a comprehensive set of standard driver-assist features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane keeping assist. The Corolla, however, does come standard with road sign assist, which gives it a slight edge, as it helps drivers stay be aware of important road information, such as speed limits and yield signs, without taking their eyes off the road.

Toyota Corolla vs. Nissan Sentra

Another worthy rival is the Nissan Sentra. While the Sentra's 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivers a respectable 149 hp and 146 pounds of torque, it still falls short of the Corolla's impressive 169 hp and 151 pounds of torque.

Fuel economy is another crucial consideration for many car buyers, and both the Corolla and Sentra perform well in this area. The Sentra achieves an estimated 29 mpg city, 39 mpg highway, and 33 combined mpg. Whereas the Corolla offers 31 mpg city, 40 mpg highway, and 34 combined mpg. Drivers in Bowie, MD, can expect to enjoy significant fuel savings with either vehicle, making them both excellent choices for those looking to reduce their gas expenses.

In terms of technology, the Sentra offers an impressive array of features, including an eight-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. However, the Corolla's infotainment system includes Amazon Alexa compatibility, which the Sentra does not offer.

Both the Corolla and Sentra prioritize safety in their models, offering a range of features. Both vehicles include intelligent cruise control and blind spot monitoring. However, the Corolla's standard road sign assist feature sets it apart from the Sentra. For Lusby, MD, customers who prioritize more safety features in their car, the Corolla is the clear choice.

Purchase a New Toyota Corolla at Bayside Toyota

As you can see by this comparison, the 2026 Toyota Corolla is the far superior choice over its competitors like the Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, and Nissan Sentra. With best-in-class horsepower and torque, impressive fuel economy, and plenty of features, the new Toyota Corolla is guaranteed to keep you connected and protected no matter where you go.

If you wish to experience the 2026 Toyota Corolla firsthand, visit Bayside Toyota in Prince Frederick, MD. Our sales team is here to help you find the perfect trim to suit your needs and budget. We invite all residents from Dunkirk, MD, and the surrounding areas to explore our competitive deals on the Corolla and discover why it outperforms its rivals in every aspect. Now's the perfect opportunity to own this exceptional compact car, so stop by our dealership and let us help you behind the wheel.

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  1. Bayside Toyota

    105 Auto Drive
    Prince Frederick, MD 20678

    • Sales: (410) 535 1500
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