Hyundai Elantra vs KIA Sorento
A proper head-to-head in South Africa — compare price, performance, fuel economy or electric range, safety and the details that shape long-term ownership.
Includes a historical vehicle
Current, upcoming and historical vehicles can be compared side by side. Historical records keep their verified specifications, while price labels show last-listed context rather than current new-car availability.
Hyundai Elantra
Discontinued model
Share
Hyundai Elantra
1.5 IVT Fluid
Petrol
Discontinued model
ZAR 492,900
last listed
Discontinued model
Verified historical specifications remain visible for owner and used-car comparisons.
⚡ 85 kW
🔧 143 Nm
⛽ 17.5 km/l
VS
KIA Sorento
2.2 CRDi SXL AWD DCT
Diesel
8-Speed DCT
Current
ZAR 1,299,995
ex-showroom
⚡ 148 kW
🔧 440 Nm
⛽ 15.6 km/l
＋
Add a 3rd car
Decision summary
Hyundai Elantra vs KIA Sorento: the short answer
Sorento has a modest catalogue-index lead, while Elantra remains close.
Recorded price context
Elantra:
last listed from
ZAR 448,900
·
Sorento:
current from
ZAR 999,995
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | Elantra85 kW @ 6300 rpm | Sorento148 kW @ 3800 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | Elantra143 Nm @ 4500 rpm | Sorento440 Nm @ 1750 rpm |
| Engine Size | Elantra1497 cc | Sorento2151 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | Elantra17.5 km/l | Sorento15.6 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | Elantra130 mm | Sorento185 mm |
Strongest published figure in that row; no road-test winner is implied.
Independent editorial assessment
Hagalu editorial ratings
When a variant is selected, its rating out of five applies only to that exact derivative; a model-range review is not inherited. Editorial ratings are separate from the Specification Evidence Index out of 100 and are not customer ratings.
KIA Sorento
2.2 CRDi SXL AWD DCT
Hagalu editorial rating
Not yet rated
No complete editorial rating is published for this exact variant. This is not a zero score.
How Hagalu rates cars →Not yet rated means a complete review is not published; it does not mean the vehicle scored zero. Read the rating methodology.
What Each Car Gets Right (and Wrong)
Elantra
Strengths
- Better fuel efficiency
Weak Spots
- Less powerful engine setup
- Fewer listed safety features
- Lower published practicality figures
- Lower published ownership cover
Best suited to:
Published Efficiency
Specification evidence leader
Sorento
Strengths
- More powerful engine output
- Stronger listed safety equipment
- Stronger published practicality figures
- Stronger published ownership cover
Weak Spots
- Lower fuel efficiency
Best suited to:
Published Performance
Published Practicality
Which One's Right for You?
Elantra
- Buyers prioritising the lower published fuel or energy use
Sorento
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
- Buyers prioritising the more complete listed safety equipment
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published space and capacity figures
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published warranty or service cover
Full Specs, Side by Side
Open a category, then swipe sideways to compare every column
Archived cars use verified historical spec records. Rows remain comparable; unavailable historical values are shown plainly rather than estimated.
| Spec | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 1990 | 2021 |
| Generation | Seventh generation Elantra on Hyundai's K3 platform; bold parametric design language marks a clear break from the conservative sixth gen | Fourth generation (MQ4); global launch 2020, SA 2021 |
| Facelift History | Seventh generation launched globally in 2020 and brought to SA; significant leap in styling and interior quality over the previous generation | Fourth generation (MQ4) launched SA 2021; updated spec 2024 |
| Facelift Launched Since | 2020 | 2024 |
| Body Style | Sedan | SUV |
| Production Status | discontinued | active |
| Segment | Sedan | SUV |
| Tare Mass Kg | 1355 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Model Year | Not confirmed | 2026 |
| Drivetrain Note | Not confirmed | Drive layout derived from the official derivative naming: 2.2 CRDi SXL AWD DCT |
| Dealer Stock Note | Not confirmed | Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup |
| Color Note | Not confirmed | Glacier White Pearl, Aurora Black Pearl, Steel Grey, Interstellar Grey, Gravity Blue |
| Facelift Version Ending | Not confirmed | Current |
| Spec | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4680 mm | 4810 mm |
| Width | 1825 mm | 1900 mm |
| Height | 1415 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2720 mm | 2815 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 130 mm | 185 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | Not Officially Disclosed | 176 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 l | 67 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 473 l | 219 l |
| Kerb Weight | 1355 kg | 1960 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 1860 kg | 2550 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 505 kg | 620 kg |
| Towing Capacity | Not Officially Disclosed | 2000 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Rows | 2 rows | 3 rows |
| Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | Not Officially Disclosed | 11.2 m |
| Front Headroom | Not Officially Disclosed | 1010 mm |
| Rear Headroom | Not Officially Disclosed | 955 mm |
| Front Legroom | Not Officially Disclosed | 1040 mm |
| Rear Legroom | Not Officially Disclosed | 855 mm |
| Spec | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Load Bed Length | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Climate Control | Dual Zone Auto Climate | Yes |
| Power Windows | All | Yes |
| Keyless Entry | Yes | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Sunroof | Electric Sunroof | Yes |
| Electric Tailgate | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | No | Yes |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | No | Yes |
| Rear Window Defroster | Yes | Yes |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | Yes | Yes |
| 12V Accessory Socket | 12V | Yes |
| AC Type | Dual Zone Auto Climate | Yes |
| Boot Opener | Inside | Remote |
| Door Ajar Warning | Yes | Yes |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | Yes | Yes |
| Engine Check Warning | Yes | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop | Yes | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop Button | Yes | Yes |
| Front Armrest | Yes | Centre Armrest |
| Front Power Outlet | Yes | Yes |
| Fuel Lid Opener | Inside | Remote |
| Headlamp Height Adjust | Manual | Yes |
| Headlamp Washer | No | No |
| Power Mirrors | Yes | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Reading Lamps | Yes | Yes |
| Service Reminder | Yes | Yes |
| Spare Wheel | Steel | Temporary Spare |
| Tachometer | Yes | Yes |
| Telescopic Steering | No | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Tilt Steering | Yes | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Trip Computer | Yes | Yes |
| Vanity Mirror | Yes | Yes |
| Air Conditioning | Dual Zone Auto Climate | Yes |
| Loadbox Length Mm | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Width Mm | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Rim Size | 17-inch Alloy | 255/45 R20 |
| Sound System | 8 Bose Premium | 12 |
| Unlocking | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Charger | Yes | Yes |
| Intercooler | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rev Matching | Not confirmed | No |
| Performance Data Logger | Not confirmed | No |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | Not confirmed | 6.4 |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Drag Coefficient | Not confirmed | 0.35 |
| Roof Load | Not confirmed | 100 kg |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | Not confirmed | 616 l |
| Stabilizer Bar | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Steering Response | Not confirmed | Normal |
| Skid Plates | Not confirmed | No |
| Side Steps | Not confirmed | No |
| Tyre Repair Kit | Not confirmed | No |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Hill Start Assist | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Speed Limiter | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Impact Sensing Door Unlock | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Surround View Monitor | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Adaptive Dampers | Not confirmed | No |
| Voice Command | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Voice Command Support | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Digital Speedometer | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Driver Display | Not confirmed | Digital Cluster |
| Heads Up Display | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Multi Function Steering | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Steering Mounted Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Climate Zones | Not confirmed | 2 |
| Rear Air Conditioning | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Glovebox Cooling | Not confirmed | No |
| Seat Type | Not confirmed | Leather Seats |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Seat Split | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Headrest Adjustable | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Remote Engine Start | Not confirmed | No |
| Remote Start | Not confirmed | No |
| Remote Central Locking | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Heated Mirrors | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Electric Mirror Folding | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Remote Side Mirror | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Defogger | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Tail Lamps | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Panoramic Roof | Electric Sunroof | Yes |
| Roof Antenna | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Wing | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Aero Kit | Not confirmed | No |
| Chrome Grille | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Chrome Exterior Highlights | Not confirmed | No |
| Ride Mode Selection | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Powered Tailgate | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Power Sliding Doors | Not confirmed | No |
| Engine Warranty | Not confirmed | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Trim Level | Not confirmed | flagship |
| Variant Role | Not confirmed | Flagship / premium derivative |
| Accelerator 0 100 | Not confirmed | 8.5 sec |
| Common Rail Injection | Not confirmed | Common Rail Direct Injection |
| Diff Lock | Not confirmed | No |
| Difflock | Not confirmed | No |
| Vdc | Not confirmed | Yes |
| TPMS | Yes | Yes |
| Sonar | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Steering Column Adjustment | Not confirmed | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Bottle Holders | Not confirmed | 6 |
| Glove Box | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Manual Aircon | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Passive Entry Start | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Lift Gate | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Power Socket 12v | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Mirror | Not confirmed | Electric |
| Stabilizer Bar Front | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Stabilizer Bar Rear | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Sub Frame | Not confirmed | Unibody |
| Vehicle To Grid | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Vehicle To Load | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| One Pedal Driving | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Rear Electric Motor | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Battery Preconditioning | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Load Bed Cover | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Tailgate Lock | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Sports Bar | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Canopy Fitment | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Bed Extender | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Source Model Column | Not confirmed | sorento |
| Intelligent Battery System | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Load Bed Light | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Load Bed Steps | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Tailgate Damper | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Tow Bar Type | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Sport Plus Mode | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Walk Away Lock | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear LED Combination Taillights | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Front Wiper | Not confirmed | No |
| Front Wipers Type | Not confirmed | No |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Vanity Mirror Illuminated | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Reading Lights Rear | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Centre Console | Not confirmed | Centre Armrest |
| Side Impact Bars | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | Not confirmed | 616 l |
| Spec | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol | 2.2-litre Turbocharged Diesel |
| Engine Code | Not Officially Disclosed | D4HB |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Diesel |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | 1497 cc | 2151 cc |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Cylinder Layout | Inline | Inline |
| Valves | 16 | 16 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 | 4 |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | Turbocharged |
| Fuel System | Multi-Point Injection | Common Rail Direct Injection |
| Compression Ratio | Not Officially Disclosed | 15.4:1 |
| Bore | Not Officially Disclosed | 85.4 mm |
| Stroke | Not Officially Disclosed | 94 mm |
| Maximum Power | 85 kW @ 6300 rpm | 148 kW @ 3800 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 143 Nm @ 4500 rpm | 440 Nm @ 1750 rpm |
| Combined Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Combined Torque | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Number of Motors | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Location | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Drive Type | FWD | AWD |
| Transmission | Not Officially Disclosed | 8-Speed DCT |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 200 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 11.2 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Quarter Mile | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Drive Modes | Eco, Normal | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Launch Control | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Rev Limiter | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 62.7 kW/tonne | 75.5 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 105.5 Nm/tonne | 224.5 Nm/tonne |
| Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Usable Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Voltage | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Regenerative Braking | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Spec | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Position | Front | Front Transverse |
| Gearbox | IVT Intelligent Variable Transmission | 8-Speed DCT |
| Drivetrain Layout | FWD | FWD |
| LSD Available | No | No |
| Transfer Case | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Differential Lock | Not Applicable | No |
| Paddle Shifters | No | Yes |
| Final Drive Ratio | Not Officially Disclosed | 3.63 |
| Number of Gears | Not Officially Disclosed | 8 |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Dual Clutch Transmission |
| Clutch Type | Not Officially Disclosed | Dry Dual Clutch |
| Gear Shift Indicator | Yes | No |
| Gear Shift Type | Not Officially Disclosed | Automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| 4WD Engagement | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Hi Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Lo Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Selector | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Automatic Shift Paddles | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Front Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | Automatic | 8-Speed DCT |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | FWD | AWD |
| Rear Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Transmission Speeds | Not Officially Disclosed | 8 |
| Steering Turns Lock to Lock | Not confirmed | 15.2:1 |
| Transfer Case Guard | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Spec | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | 17.5 km/l | 15.6 km/l |
| City Mileage | 14.0 km/l | 12.8 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | 21.0 km/l | 18.5 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 l | 67 l |
| Emission Standard | Euro 6 | Euro 6 |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | No |
| Auto Start Stop | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Distance To Empty | Yes | - |
| Low Fuel Warning | Yes | Yes |
| Real-world Mileage | 17.5 km/l | 15.6 km/l |
| Charging Port Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | 47 | 67 |
| Combined Driving Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Consumption | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Highway | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Mixed | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Spec | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 6 | 7 |
| ABS | Yes | Yes |
| Electronic Stability Control | Yes | Yes |
| Traction Control | Yes | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Hill Start Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Child Safety Lock | Yes | Yes |
| ISOFIX Mounts | Yes | Yes |
| Brake Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | Yes | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Yes | Yes |
| Central Locking | Yes | Yes |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | Yes | Yes |
| Front Parking Sensors | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Safety Rating | Not Rated (SA) | 5 |
| AEB | No | Yes |
| BA | Yes | Yes |
| Brake Override System | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Curtain Airbags | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Driver Airbag | Yes | Yes |
| EBD | Yes | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Yes | Yes |
| Hill Hold | Yes | Yes |
| Passenger Airbag | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Yes | Yes |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Yes | Yes |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Side Airbags | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Stability Control | Yes | Yes |
| TCS | Yes | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| ABS EBD | Yes | Yes |
| Side Impact Beams | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Whiplash Protection | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Pedestrian Detection AEB | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Lane Change Warning | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Fatigue Detection | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Alarm System | Not confirmed | Yes |
| ESC With Traction Control | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | Not confirmed | 7 |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | Not confirmed | 7 |
| Anti Theft Alarm | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Spec | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Yes | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Yes | Yes |
| Lane Keep Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Lane Departure Warning | Yes | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Yes | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | Front & Rear | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | Yes | Yes |
| 360 Degree Camera | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | No | Yes |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | No | No |
| Auto Highbeam | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Auto Lights | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Wipers | No | Yes |
| Eco Mode | Yes | Yes |
| EV Mode | No | No |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Reverse Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Sport Mode | No | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Yes | Yes |
| Park Assist | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Around View Monitor | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Blind Spot Warning | Yes | Yes |
| Forward Collision Warning | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Reversing Camera | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Emergency Braking | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Pre-Collision System | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Reverse Camera Type | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Surround View Camera | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Parking Distance Sensors | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Parking Sensor | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Front Camera | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Spec | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Leather-Look | Leather |
| Seat Adjustment | Power Driver | 8-Way Power |
| Heated Seats | Front | Yes |
| Ventilated Seats | No | Yes |
| Steering Type | Electric | Yes |
| Steering Adjustment | Tilt & Telescopic | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Ambient Lighting | Yes | Yes |
| Folding Rear Seats | 60/40 Split | Yes |
| Front Armrest | Yes | Centre Armrest |
| Rear Armrest | No | Yes |
| Cup Holders | 4 | 6 |
| Steering Wheel Material | Leather | Leather |
| Instrument Cluster Type | Analogue + MID | Digital |
| Door Map Pockets | Yes | Yes |
| 60 40 Split Seat | Yes | Yes |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | Manual | 8-Way Power |
| Adjustable Front Seat | Manual | 4-Way Power |
| Cooled Seats | No | Yes |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | Not Officially Disclosed | 8-Way Power |
| Fabric Seats | Yes | No |
| Front Headrest | Yes | Adjustable |
| Leather Seats | No | Yes |
| Memory Seats | No | Yes |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | Not Officially Disclosed | 4-Way Power |
| Rear Headrest | Yes | Adjustable |
| Seat Trim | Not Officially Disclosed | Leather |
| Front Shoulder Room | Not confirmed | 1405 mm |
| Rear Shoulder Room | Not confirmed | 1350 mm |
| Rear USB Ports | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear AC Vents | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Driver Lumbar Support | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Interior Colour Options | Not confirmed | Black |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | Not confirmed | 12.3+12.3-inch panoramic curved display, Bose Premium Sound, dual panoramic sunroof (SX/SXL), 360-degree AVM (SX/SXL), ventilated front seats, heated second row, highway driving assist, 7 seats |
| Boot Space Seats Down | Not confirmed | 616 |
| Seat Belt Warning | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | Not confirmed | Leather |
| Driver Seat | Not confirmed | 8-Way Power |
| Seat Fold Type | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Armrest Front | Not confirmed | Centre Armrest |
| Armrest Rear | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Interior Colours | Not confirmed | Black |
| Interior Trim Colour | Not confirmed | Black |
| Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Spec | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 10.25-inch Touchscreen | 12.3-inch Touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Android Auto | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Number of Speakers | 8 Bose Premium | 12 |
| Navigation System | Yes | Yes |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | 10.25-inch Digital Cluster | Yes |
| USB Ports | 2 USB-A + 1 USB-C | 4 |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Android Auto | Yes | Yes |
| FM Radio | Yes | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Recognition | Yes | Yes |
| AUX Input | Yes | No |
| Audio Controls On Steering | Yes | Yes |
| Infotainment Display | Touchscreen | 12.3 |
| Rear Usb | Yes | Yes |
| Audio Speakers | 8 Bose Premium | 12 |
| Infotainment Screen | Not Officially Disclosed | 12.3 |
| Touchscreen | Not Officially Disclosed | 12.3 |
| Infotainment Screen Size | Not Officially Disclosed | 12.3 |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | Not confirmed | No |
| Premium Audio | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Radio | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Head Up Display | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Multi Information Display | Not confirmed | Digital |
| Display Audio | Not confirmed | 12.3-inch Touchscreen |
| Smartphone Connectivity | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Connected Services | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | Not confirmed | 4 |
| Voice Control | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Audio | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Audio System | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Spec | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | Full LED | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lamps | LED | Yes |
| Fog Lamps | LED | Yes |
| Roof Rails | No | Yes |
| Alloy Wheel Design | 17-inch Alloy | Alloy Alloy |
| Rear Spoiler | Yes | Yes |
| Exterior Colour Options | Not Officially Disclosed | Multiple |
| Wing Mirror Type | Power Adjustable | Electric |
| Rear Wiper | No | No |
| Door Handle Finish | Body Coloured | Body Colour |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| DRL | LED | Yes |
| Fog Lights | Yes | Yes |
| Front Fog Lights | Yes | Yes |
| Led Headlights | Full LED | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lights | LED | Yes |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | Yes | Yes |
| Front Fog Lamps | LED | Yes |
| Headlamps | Full LED | Yes |
| Headlight Type | Full LED | Yes |
| Headlights | Full LED | Yes |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Front Overhang | Not confirmed | 900 mm |
| Rear Overhang | Not confirmed | 1095 mm |
| Led Taillights | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Fog Lights | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Roof Type | Not confirmed | Standard |
| Body Cladding | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Chrome Exterior Finish | Not confirmed | No |
| Exterior Colour Options | Not confirmed | 5 |
| Auto Headlights | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Headlamp Levelling | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Spoiler | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | Not confirmed | Body Colour |
| Load Bed Liner | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Active Exhaust | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | Not confirmed | Standard |
| Spec | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | Not Officially Disclosed | 19 deg |
| Departure Angle | Not Officially Disclosed | 20 deg |
| Wading Depth | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Available |
| Terrain Modes | Not Available | Not Available |
| Locking Differential | No | No |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | 20 deg | 17 deg |
| 4WD System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Breakover Angle | Not Officially Disclosed | 17 deg |
| Ground Clearance Max | 130 mm | 185 mm |
| Ground Clearance Min | 130 mm | 185 mm |
| Ramp-over Angle | Not confirmed | 19 deg |
| Recovery Hooks | Not confirmed | No |
| Underbody Protection | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Off Road Descent Control | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Terrain Response System | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Crawl Control | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Underbody Camera | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Energy Recovery Display | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Approach Angle Deg | Not confirmed | 19 deg |
| Departure Angle Deg | Not confirmed | 20 deg |
| Spec | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | 225/45 R17 | 255/45 R20 |
| Wheel Type | 17-inch Alloy | Alloy Alloy |
| Front Brake Type | Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Spare Wheel Type | Steel | Temporary Spare |
| Parking Brake Type | Manual | Electronic |
| Tyre Load Index | 91 | 107 |
| Tyre Speed Rating | H | H |
| Wheel Rim Size | 17-inch Alloy | 255/45 R20 |
| Brake Type Front | Disc (Ventilated) | Ventilated Disc |
| Brake Type Rear | Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Spare Tyre | Steel | Temporary Spare |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless Radial | Radial |
| Wheel Diameter | 17-inch Alloy | 255/45 R20 |
| Handbrake Type | Not Officially Disclosed | Electronic |
| Wheels | 17-inch Alloy | Alloy Alloy |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | Not confirmed | 340 mm |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | Not confirmed | 305 mm |
| Front Tyre Width | Not confirmed | 235 mm |
| Rear Tyre Width | Not confirmed | 235 mm |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Yes | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Display | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Wheel Material | 17-inch Alloy | Alloy Alloy |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | Not confirmed | Temporary Spare |
| Electric Park Brake | Not confirmed | Electronic |
| Wheel Size Type | Not confirmed | 255/45 R20 |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Leather Steering Wheel | Not confirmed | Leather |
| Steering Wheel Trim | Not confirmed | Leather |
| Brakes | Not confirmed | Ventilated Disc |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Cornering Brake Control | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Auto Brake Hold | Not confirmed | Electronic |
| Spec | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-Link | Multi-Link |
| Chassis Type | Monocoque | Unibody |
| Power Steering | Electric | Yes |
| Steering Column | Tilt | Adjustable |
| Front Suspension Type | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension Type | Multi-Link | Multi-Link |
| Front Track Width | Not confirmed | 1640 mm |
| Rear Track Width | Not confirmed | 1644 mm |
| Front Spring Type | Not confirmed | Coil Spring |
| Rear Spring Type | Not confirmed | Coil Spring |
| Shock Absorber Type | Not confirmed | Telescopic |
| Front Anti-Roll Bar | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Anti-Roll Bar | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Suspension | Not confirmed | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Axle Type | Not confirmed | Multi-Link |
| Shock Absorbers | Not confirmed | Telescopic |
| Chassis Material | Not confirmed | Unibody |
| MagneRide Damping | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Spec | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Service Interval | 15000 km / 12 months | 15000 |
| Maintenance Plan | 3 Years / 45000 km | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| First Service At | 15000 | 15000 |
| Service Plan Duration | 4 | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Plan Distance | 4 | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Alternator | 120A | Yes |
| Service Plan | 4 | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Intervals | 15000 km / 12 months | 15000 |
| Accessory Battery Type | Lead-acid | - |
| Engine Oil Capacity | Not confirmed | 6.0 l |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | Not confirmed | 15000 |
| Approx Service Cost | Not confirmed | R4,200 per service |
| Anti-Rust Treatment | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Battery Warranty | Not confirmed | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Spec | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty Years | 5 | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty Kilometers | 5 | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 Years | 5 Years |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | 5 Years | 5 Years |
| Basic Warranty | 5 | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 Years | 5 Years |
| Warranty | 5 | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | 5 Years | 5 Years |
| Spec | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 126 g/km | 167 g/km |
| Start Stop System | No | Yes |
| Variable Valve Timing | Yes | No |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | Unleaded 95 | B7 Diesel |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | Yes | No |
| Particulate Filter | Not confirmed | DPF |
| Idle CO2 Output | Not confirmed | 175 |
| Green NCAP Rating | Not confirmed | 5 |
| Euro Emission Standard | Not confirmed | Euro 6 |
| Noise Level | Not confirmed | 69 dB |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | Not confirmed | 167 |
| Hybrid System Type | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Spec | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | Private and family | Flagship |
| Price Zar | 492900 ZAR | 1299995 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | Historical listed price | Current listed price |
| Starting Price | 492900 | 1299995 |
| Starting Price Zar | 492900 | 1299995 |
| Spec | Elantra | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world City Mileage Min | Not confirmed | 10.9 l/100km |
| Real-world City Mileage Max | Not confirmed | 14.1 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Min | Not confirmed | 16.7 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Max | Not confirmed | 19.4 l/100km |
In depth: how these cars differ
This Elantra and Sorento comparison uses the exact derivatives selected above for South Africa. The catalogue index covers performance, efficiency, safety equipment, practicality and ownership cover only where comparable source-backed fields are present.
Performance index: Elantra 36 vs Sorento 74.
Efficiency index: Elantra 67 vs Sorento 61.
Safety-equipment index: Elantra 84 vs Sorento 100.
Practicality index: Elantra 61 vs Sorento 64.
Ownership-cover index: Elantra 65 vs Sorento 71.
These figures are Hagalu catalogue-comparison indicators, not customer ratings, crash-test scores, resale guarantees or a substitute for a road test. Each page shows its weighted source coverage beside the result.
Model imagery
Elantra and Sorento image comparison
Open an image for its full canonical file or visit the model page for the complete vehicle record.
Hyundai Elantra
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KIA Sorento
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Specification Evidence Index
A transparent comparison of published catalogue fields. This is not a road-test score, owner rating or editorial review rating, and it appears only when every vehicle clears the same comparable-data threshold.
Evidence-index readout
Sorento leads by 13 points
Sorento has a modest catalogue-index lead, while Elantra remains close.
Evidence leader
75
/100
Lead
13
points
Data
99%
source coverage
75
#1
Evidence leader
Sorento
99% source coverage
3 strong categories
Best at
Safety 100
Check
Efficiency 61
Performance
74
Efficiency
61
Safety
100
Practicality
64
Ownership
71
Leads by 13 points
62
#2
Elantra
93% source coverage
1 strong categories
Best at
Safety 84
Check
Performance 36
Performance
36
Efficiency
67
Safety
84
Practicality
61
Ownership
65
Performance 24%
Safety 22%
Practicality 22%
Efficiency 17%
Ownership 15%
Category leaders
What moves the verdict
Performance
Sorento +38
Efficiency
Elantra +6
Safety
Sorento +16
Practicality
Sorento +3
Ownership
Sorento +6
Moderate difference in the source-backed catalogue index.
Why this score View full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
Sorento
Performance
74/100
Efficiency
61/100
Safety
100/100
Practicality
64/100
Ownership
71/100
Elantra
Performance
36/100
Efficiency
67/100
Safety
84/100
Practicality
61/100
Ownership
65/100
What the evidence means
Evidence index
KIA Sorento
leads the specification evidence index with 75 pts
vs 62 pts for Elantra
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, Sorento leads. However, Elantra may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
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Elantra vs Sorento questions
There is no universal winner. Use the comparison table to match the models and available derivatives in South Africa on price, safety equipment, space, powertrain and ownership cover. The category indicators summarise published catalogue data; they are not a road test or customer rating.
Compare the published consumption or mileage rows for the exact derivatives using the same unit and test basis. A catalogue figure is useful for like-for-like comparison, but traffic, speed, load, weather and driving style can change actual fuel use.
Compare only equipment explicitly listed for each derivative, including airbags, stability control and driver-assistance systems. Confirm the exact trim with the manufacturer, and treat any independent crash-test result separately because equipment and ratings can differ by market.
A reliable five-year total cannot be calculated from catalogue data alone. Add the exact purchase and finance cost, fuel or electricity, insurance quotes, scheduled servicing, tyres and expected resale value. Check whether the selected derivative includes a service or maintenance plan.
Use the seating, boot or load-space, ISOFIX and safety rows as a first check. Then test the exact cars with your child seats, passengers and typical luggage, because published dimensions do not show every access or comfort difference.
Compare the published power, torque and 0–100 km/h rows when they are available for both exact derivatives. Vehicle weight, gearing and power delivery also matter, so catalogue outputs alone do not establish real-world overtaking or response.