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 edges out the Kia Cerato, especially for buyers prioritizing modern technology, superior fuel efficiency with its available hybrid powertrain, and more dynamic performance. While the Cerato offers a slightly larger trunk and a more accessible price point, the Elantra's advanced features and quicker acceleration make it a compelling choice for a contemporary sedan experience.
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Price Comparison
Starting at8,150 – 9,950 BHD0 – 7,900 BHD
Engine & Power
Engine1,580 – 1,999 cc · 4 cyl1,600 – 2,000 cc · 4 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)139 – 150 hp128 – 152 hp
Torque (Nm)192 – 264 Nm154 – 192 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)9 – 9.5 s10.5 – 11 s
Top Speed (Km/h)205 – 209 km/h190 – 210 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 kg1,220 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 Fuel Efficiency

The Hyundai Elantra is the winner for fuel economy, particularly with its hybrid option achieving as low as 4.7 L/100km, significantly outperforming the Kia Cerato's 6.7 L/100km.

2

Best for Driving Performance

For a more engaging drive, the Hyundai Elantra takes the lead with quicker acceleration (0-100 km/h in 9 seconds) and higher torque (up to 264 Nm) compared to the Kia Cerato.

3

Best for Practical Cargo Space

The Kia Cerato is the better choice for those needing more storage, offering a trunk capacity of 427 liters, which is slightly more generous than the Hyundai Elantra's 408 liters.

4

Best for Budget-Conscious Buyers

The Kia Cerato offers a more accessible entry price, with its range going up to 7,900 BHD, making it a stronger contender for shoppers prioritizing a lower initial investment compared to the Elantra's starting price of 8,150 BHD.

Pros & cons

Hyundai Elantra

Pros

  • Available hybrid powertrain for superior fuel economy
  • Stronger torque output (up to 264 Nm)
  • Quicker acceleration (as low as 9 seconds)
  • Wider price range offers more trim options

Cons

  • Smaller trunk capacity compared to Cerato
  • Higher starting price point
  • Smaller fuel tank capacity

Kia Cerato

Pros

  • Larger standard fuel tank capacity (53 L)
  • More generous trunk space (427 L)
  • Potentially lower entry price point

Cons

  • Less powerful torque delivery
  • Slower acceleration
  • No hybrid powertrain option
  • Higher fuel consumption than Elantra's hybrid

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Hyundai Elantra or Kia Cerato more fuel-efficient in Bahrain?

The Hyundai Elantra, especially its hybrid variant, offers superior fuel economy, starting as low as 4.7 L/100km. In contrast, the Kia Cerato's petrol engine consumes 6.7 L/100km. For long-term savings at the pump, the Elantra is the clear winner.

Which car, the Hyundai Elantra or Kia Cerato, offers better driving performance?

The Hyundai Elantra generally provides a more spirited drive with quicker acceleration, achieving 0-100 km/h in as little as 9 seconds, and higher torque up to 264 Nm. The Kia Cerato is slightly slower, with acceleration times starting from 10.5 seconds and lower peak torque. Drivers prioritizing responsiveness will prefer the Elantra.

Which sedan has more trunk space: the Hyundai Elantra or Kia Cerato?

The Kia Cerato offers a more practical trunk capacity, providing up to 427 liters compared to the Hyundai Elantra's 408 liters. If cargo space for groceries or luggage is a priority, the Cerato provides a slight advantage.

Which is better for budget buyers, the Hyundai Elantra or Kia Cerato in Bahrain?

The Kia Cerato appears to be the more budget-friendly option, with its price ranging up to 7,900 BHD. The Hyundai Elantra starts at 8,150 BHD and goes up to 9,950 BHD. Shoppers looking for a lower entry price point will find the Cerato more appealing.