2025 Honda Accord LX vs 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE
45 more hp and 60 more lb-ft torque vs $5,670 less and 3 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 192 vs 147 hp, 32 vs 35 MPG.
The Accord LX leads on 45 more hp, 60 more lb-ft torque. The Elantra SE leads on $5,670 less, 3 MPG better. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Honda Accord LX | 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $28,295 | $22,625 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 192 hp | 147 hp |
| Torque | 192 lb-ft | 132 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 29 | 31 |
| Highway MPG | 37 | 40 |
| Combined MPG | 32 | 35 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.8 gal | 12.4 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,350/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,239 lbs | 2,868 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.4" | 107.1" |
| Length | 195.7" | 185.4" |
| Width | 73.3" | 71.9" |
| Height | 57.1" | 55.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Honda Accord LX and 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE starts at $22,625, $5,670 less than the 2025 Honda Accord LX at $28,295. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $100/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda Accord LX?
The 2025 Honda Accord LX is the stronger pick when the extra 45 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,670 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $112/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Honda Accord LX or 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE rates 35 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Honda Accord LX or 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2025 Honda Accord LX produces 192 hp, 45 more than the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE at 147 hp. The 2025 Honda Accord LX also leads in torque at 192 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft. The 2025 Honda Accord LX runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE uses a 2.0L I4.
Is the 2025 Honda Accord LX bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2025 Honda Accord LX is 10.3″ longer at 195.7″ vs 185.4″. The 2025 Honda Accord LX has a 4.3″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Honda Accord comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Hyundai Elantra offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda Accord trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Elantra trims
- 2025 Honda Accord LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Accord–Elantra Decision
Shopping midsize sedans means the Accord and Elantra will likely end up on the same test-drive day. Here is what the numbers say before you get behind the wheel. The $-5,670 gap adds up to $100/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Honda Accord LX runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE uses a 2.0L I4. The 2025 Honda Accord LX has 45 more hp (192 vs 147), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 Honda Accord LX adds 60 more lb-ft of torque (192 vs 132), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use FWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE saves roughly $112/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $560.
Living With the Accord vs the Elantra
The 2025 Honda Accord LX is 10.3″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Honda Accord LX weighs 371 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Honda Accord LX when the extra 45 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE when you want to keep $5,670 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Honda or Hyundai or any dealership.