2019 Hyundai Elantra vs 2019 BMW 3 Series

The 2019 BMW 3 Series maintained its evolutionary design approach, avoiding radical changes and sticking to a classic, timeless look. It was slightly longer and wider than its predecessors, yet retained a compact footprint, making it easy to park and maneuver. The design changes were subtle, such as the modification of the Hoffmeister kink on the rear doors, but overall, it adhered to the sport sedan design principles with a low hood, short overhangs, and a ground-hugging stance. The front was unmistakably BMW, with LED running lamps and widened kidney grilles, while the tail featured simplified LED lights. Inside, the 3 Series kept its driver-focused layout, with a digital instrument panel and an optional wireless charging pad. However, some interior materials felt coarse, and the M Sport steering wheel was slightly too thick for some tastes.

In contrast, the 2019 Hyundai Elantra underwent a more noticeable redesign, with new styling elements forward of the windshield and rear updates, resulting in a more geometric appearance. While the exterior changes were not universally praised, the interior saw subtle improvements, such as new air vents and revised controls, enhancing the cabin's appeal. The Elantra's interior was high quality, with a robust shifter and tightly assembled parts, though some materials felt inexpensive. The Elantra offered a range of trims, with the Limited trim featuring advanced safety and convenience features. The Ultimate Package added further enhancements, including a navigation system and a larger touchscreen display, making the Elantra a well-equipped compact car.

The 2019 BMW 3 Series, particularly the 330i xDrive, showcased BMW's expertise in engine performance. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine delivered 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, offering smooth and powerful acceleration. The 8-speed automatic transmission provided perfect shifts, and the M Sport package enhanced the driving experience with a firmer suspension and variable-ratio steering. The 3 Series was praised for its handling, with improved steering and a quiet cabin. Fuel economy was competitive, with the 330i xDrive achieving 25 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.

The 2019 Hyundai Elantra, equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower, offered acceptable acceleration through its 6-speed automatic transmission. While it provided different driving modes, the Elantra's dynamics were not particularly inspiring. The car achieved an EPA rating of 32 mpg combined, with real-world testing showing similar results. Handling was decent, but the ride quality was affected by the torsion-beam rear-axle suspension, making it less rewarding to drive compared to the BMW.

The 2019 BMW 3 Series offered a spacious interior with improved backseat legroom and a 17-cubic-foot trunk. Visibility was good, and the seats were supportive for long trips. The infotainment system was intuitive, with a touchscreen and easy-to-use climate controls. USB-C ports were available, enhancing connectivity.

The 2019 Hyundai Elantra provided good front-seat comfort, with height-adjustable seats and available heated front seats. However, backseat comfort was less impressive, with hard plastic front seatbacks and no rear air vents or USB ports. Interior storage was decent, and the trunk offered 14.4 cubic feet of space. The Smart Trunk feature was convenient, allowing hands-free access.

The 2019 BMW 3 Series featured extensive technology, though many features required subscription fees. The iDrive system was highly customizable, with over-the-air updates and a digital key option. Gesture control and a personal assistant added convenience, though they were not always reliable. The Driving Assistance Professional Package offered advanced safety features, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2019 Hyundai Elantra, excluding the base SE trim, came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Limited trim offered an Infinity premium sound system and an 8-inch display with navigation. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with quality switchgear and impressive sound quality. Blue Link services were available with a free 3-year trial, providing safety and convenience functions.

The 2019 BMW 3 Series was a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, with top ratings in crash tests and advanced safety features like pedestrian detection and optional adaptive cruise control. The NHTSA had not tested it at the time.

The 2019 Hyundai Elantra included standard driver-assistance features from the SEL trim, with additional features available on the Limited trim. The IIHS gave it top marks, except for an Acceptable rating for LATCH anchor accessibility. The NHTSA rated it 4 stars overall, with 4-star frontal and side-impact ratings.