2020 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a choice between sedan and hatchback body styles, with the hatchback standing out due to its unique curves and silhouette. The sedan, however, was more aligned with the American market's preference and aimed to compete with luxury brands. The Mazda3 sedan with the Premium Package and AWD featured 18-inch alloy wheels, a blacked-out mesh front grille, and round running lamps, although the rear design felt slightly disproportionate. Inside, the Mazda3 embraced simplicity and minimalism, with creamy white leather and a driver-focused design. Despite its premium aspirations, the construction felt less sturdy compared to luxury brands.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, carried over from the previous model year, boasted a bold design that stood out in the hybrid midsize sedan market. While some might have found its styling polarizing, the matte gray paint and aerodynamic details added to its appeal. Inside, the Sonata Hybrid offered a conventional yet refined cabin with soft-touch surfaces and a logical layout. The seats were comfortable for long trips, and the rear-seat space was adequate. The Limited trim featured a solar panel roof, leather upholstery, and a larger touchscreen, enhancing its high-tech appeal.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3's performance was impacted by the switch to a torsion beam rear suspension, which, while cost-effective, compromised the ride quality compared to the previous multi-link setup. Despite this, the steering remained precise, and the car handled corners well. The 2.5-liter SkyActiv four-cylinder engine delivered 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, offering a predictable but not particularly punchy performance. The manual transmission was available only in specific configurations, with most models featuring a six-speed automatic.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid combined a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 192 horsepower. The hybrid system provided solid acceleration and smooth transitions between electric and gasoline power. The Drive Mode toggle allowed drivers to switch between Eco, Sport, Custom, and Smart modes, with flashy graphics enhancing the experience. The Sonata Hybrid's steering was light yet precise, and the brakes offered solid stopping power with a refined pedal feel.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 sedan measured 183.5 inches in length with a 107.3-inch wheelbase, while the hatchback was more compact at 175.6 inches. The interior provided ample room for the driver, though rear legroom was tight. The trunk offered 13.2 cubic feet of space in the sedan and 20.1 cubic feet in the hatchback, both on the smaller side for the segment.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid offered 16 cubic feet of trunk space, one of the larger capacities among midsize hybrid sedans. The cabin provided generous legroom for front passengers and adequate space for rear-seat occupants. The sloping roofline affected rear door access, but once inside, headroom was sufficient. Front passengers had access to cargo pockets and a center console, with a wireless charging pad in the Limited trim.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display integrated into the dashboard, controlled via a rotary dial rather than a touchscreen. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity, with a faster interface and sharp graphics. The head-up display projected onto the windshield, enhancing the premium feel.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen, with the Limited trim offering a 10.25-inch screen with navigation. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though CarPlay only occupied part of the screen. The layout was intuitive, with haptic buttons for various functions. The Limited trim included a wireless charging pad and a head-up display, though the latter had limited adjustability for taller drivers.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 was a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS and received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It offered a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid also earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with a full suite of driver-assistance features, including forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Limited trim added a 360-degree surround-view monitor and parking sensors.