Hyundai Elantra vs Kia Cerato: Which Should You Buy in Bahrain?

A complete comparison of the ⁦Hyundai Elantra⁩ VS ⁦Kia Cerato⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across Bahrain.

⁦Hyundai Elantra⁩ VS ⁦Kia Cerato⁩: the verdict

The Hyundai Elantra generally wins for those prioritizing performance, advanced fuel efficiency with its hybrid option, and a more dynamic driving experience. Its higher power output and quicker acceleration make it more engaging. However, the Kia Cerato remains a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a straightforward, reliable sedan at a more accessible price point.
#1#2
Price Comparison
Starting at8,150 – 9,950 BHD7,595 BHD
Engine & Power
Engine1,580 – 1,999 cc · 4 cyl1,600 cc · 4 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)139 – 150 hp128 hp
Torque (Nm)192 – 264 Nm154 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)9.5 s11 s
Top Speed (Km/h)205 – 209 km/h190 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)4.7 – 7.4 L/100km6.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity42 – 50 L53 L
Gears66
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeFront Wheel DriveFront Wheel Drive
Fuel TypeHybrid / PetrolPetrol
Battery Size1.3 kWh—
Measurements
L×W×H4.6 / 4.7 m × 1.8 / 1.8 m × 1.4 / 1.4 m4.6 m × 1.8 m × 1.4 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.7 / 2.7 m2.7 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,275 – 1,345 kg1,295 – 1,633 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)402 – 408 L427 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors4 doors
Features
Key features
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAirbagsAlloy PedalsAlloy RimsAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAUXBluetoothBody Colored GrilleBody KItBumper Side StepCassette PlayerCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCigar LighterClimate ControlClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCooled SeatsCrosswind AssistCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDoor ReflectorsDVD PlayerElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofEmergency Brake AssistFabric SeatsFire ExtinguisherFirst Aid KitFog Lamp - Front and RearFog LightsFront BrakesFront CameraFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHalogen HeadlampsHDMIHeated Cooled SeatsHeated SeatsHeel-and-ToeHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampInfotainment ScreenIntelligent KeyKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLegroomLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorManual ACMap Reading LampsMoonroofMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff Road KItOff-Road DampersPanoramic Glass RoofParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPerformance TyresPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BrakesRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerRemote StartRemote Windows DownRoof SpoilerSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSecurity SystemSemi-LED TaillightsSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTouchscreenTouchscreen SizeTraction ControlTrip ComputerTyre Defect IndicatorUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood TrimXenon Headlamps
12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive BonnetActive SteeringAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothBonnet LightBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCollision DetectionCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDifferential LockDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectronic HandbrakeFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront BrakesGas Shock AbsorberHDMIHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerIntelligent KeyiPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED TaillightsMap Reading LampsMP3Multi-Information DisplayOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRadioRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Audio VolumeSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTouchscreenTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWireless Headphones

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Performance Enthusiasts

The Hyundai Elantra is the clear winner here, offering superior horsepower up to 150 hp and quicker acceleration of 9.5 seconds, making it the more thrilling choice for drivers who value a dynamic ride.

2

Best for Fuel Efficiency

The Hyundai Elantra excels in fuel economy, especially with its available hybrid powertrain delivering an impressive 4.7 L/100km. This significantly outperforms the petrol-only Kia Cerato's 6.7 L/100km.

3

Best for Budget Buyers

The Kia Cerato offers excellent value for money with a more affordable starting price of 7,595 BHD. It's the ideal choice for those seeking a reliable sedan without breaking the bank.

4

Best for Everyday Practicality

The Kia Cerato has a slight edge for daily practicality, offering a larger standard fuel tank capacity of 53 L and a marginally bigger trunk at 427 L, providing more convenience for regular use.

Pros & cons

Hyundai Elantra

Pros

  • Higher maximum horsepower (up to 150 hp)
  • Quicker acceleration (9.5 seconds)
  • Available hybrid powertrain for superior fuel economy (4.7 L/100km)
  • Higher top speed (up to 209 km/h)
  • Broader engine range with a larger 1999cc option

Cons

  • Higher starting price
  • Smaller standard fuel tank capacity
  • Slightly less trunk space

Kia Cerato

Pros

  • More affordable starting price (7,595 BHD)
  • Larger standard fuel tank capacity (53 L)
  • Slightly larger trunk capacity (427 L)

Cons

  • Lower maximum horsepower (128 hp)
  • Slower acceleration (11 seconds)
  • No hybrid option, less fuel-efficient overall (6.7 L/100km)
  • Lower top speed (190 km/h)

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more fuel-efficient, the Hyundai Elantra or Kia Cerato?

The Hyundai Elantra is more fuel-efficient, especially with its available hybrid powertrain achieving as low as 4.7 L/100km. The Kia Cerato, solely petrol-powered, offers 6.7 L/100km. For maximum fuel savings, the Elantra Hybrid is the clear winner.

Is the Hyundai Elantra or Kia Cerato faster?

The Hyundai Elantra is faster, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 9.5 seconds, compared to the Kia Cerato's 11 seconds. The Elantra also boasts a higher top speed of up to 209 km/h. If performance is a priority, choose the Elantra.

Which car is cheaper, the Hyundai Elantra or Kia Cerato?

The Kia Cerato is the more affordable option, with a starting price of 7,595 BHD. The Hyundai Elantra starts at 8,150 BHD, making the Cerato the better choice for buyers on a tighter budget.

Which has better cargo space, the Hyundai Elantra or Kia Cerato?

The Kia Cerato offers slightly better cargo space with a trunk capacity of 427 L. The Hyundai Elantra provides 402-408 L. For those needing a bit more boot space, the Cerato has a marginal advantage.

Does the Hyundai Elantra or Kia Cerato offer more engine power?

The Hyundai Elantra offers significantly more engine power, with options up to 150 hp and 264 Nm of torque, compared to the Kia Cerato's 128 hp and 154 Nm. For a more powerful driving experience, the Elantra is the superior choice.