Civic vs Elantra: A Rumble in the C-Segment cars

Update: The all-new Civic is now available in the Philippines, read the complete news here.

The Philippines auto market has already been blessed with the all-new Hyundai Elantra and with the world's most anticipated MIAS 2016 looming just above the head, there will be a noticeable rumble in the country's C-segment cars with the MIAS-centered grand launch of the much-awaited Honda Civic 2016.

Even though the country is already enjoying the sixth-generation Elantra model lined up in the C-segment, the excitement for the all-new Civic among the Filipinos is at its peak especially with its launch in the neighboring country Thailand. These two models have always been at each other's throat as both are stylish, potent and well established in their segment with charming style and impressive handling.

Let's take an in-depth look at what actually distinguishes these two successfully running compact sedans and which will be crowd-favorite at the end of MIAS 2016.

Exterior: Which one is a Charmer?

While the South Korean automaker has rolled out the new Hyundai Elantra built on Hyundai's Fluid Sculpture 2.0 design language, the 2016 Honda Civic stacks up the former with its sharp edgy looks, thick chrome grille and sharp LED headlights. The new Elantra sits high on the 15/16/17-inch alloy wheels whereas the CIVIC fans can choose from the 16/17-inch alloy wheels. However, on the dimension front, both sedans are more or less same but CIVIC is slightly longer than the Elantra.

Interior:

With a high demand of sedans in the country, Honda isn't leaving any stone unturned and have carefully crafted its best-selling Civic 2016 in every aspect. The new Civic's cabin oozes out the feeling of elegance with its plush seats along with the multifunction steering wheel, 8-way powered driver's seat, Remote Engine Start and 7-inch touchscreen audio system including wireless phone, AppleCar Support and USB. The new Elantra also offers above premium features and has an air of inviting comfort and luxury above its class but comes with the 5-inch Audio system. So, definitely Civic stands over Elantra this time.

Engine:

The new Elantra is coming with the two powertrain options of 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre MPi gasoline mill that effortlessly gives away the total power of 127 hp and 152 hp. To top its strong contender, US-spec Honda Civic is powered by the efficient turbo mill of 1.5-litre i-VTEC and a naturally aspirated 1.8-litre engine which keep up the brand's reputation of delivering efficient fuel efficiency. Developed under the Earth Dreams Technology, they are capable of giving away the total output of 173 hp from the turbo mill and 141 hp form the NZ power unit.

With the turbo and NA powermill, Honda CIVIC 2016 clearly outshine the outgoing Elantra in the country.

Safety: Peace of Mind:

Both these compact sedans match each other's level in only one aspect which is safety. However, both the compact vehicles are loaded with the dual airbags, ABS with EBD and BA and Hill Start Assist, the new CIVIC sports additional feature of Honda Lanewatch and seatbelt reminder. So it's more of a personal choice when safety aspect is in consideration.

Verdict:

Looking at all the above points, we can conclude that both the sedans are unique in their own way. While the Elantra is running on the roads of Philippines with a base price tag of PhP 828,000; the New CIVIC is going to burn a hole in the pockets of Filipinos with the base price of PhP 1.1 million and PhP 1.3 million for the Turbocharged RS variant. For on-hands experience, customers have to get behind the wheels and for CIVIC 2016, we have to wait for the grand opening of MIAS 2016.