2022 Hyundai Elantra vs 2021 BMW 3 Series

The 2021 BMW 3 Series returned to its traditional styling approach, reminiscent of its classic models, aiming to create a familial look across its sedan lineup. However, the G20 3 Series, while intended to echo the design of larger BMW sedans, appeared somewhat stuffy. The oversized grille, which suited the larger 5 Series, seemed out of place on the smaller 3 Series. Despite the addition of M 19-inch wheels and blue-painted brake calipers in the M Sport trim package, the overall design lacked distinctiveness. Inside, the cabin design was pleasant but marred by unimpressive materials, with an abundance of plastic trim and optional extras required for a truly luxurious feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Hyundai Elantra underwent a significant redesign, transforming its appearance with a striking new look. The seventh-generation Elantra boasted a longer wheelbase, wider stance, and lower roofline, resulting in a dramatic four-door-coupe silhouette. Its exterior styling, while reminiscent of the Sonata, had its own unique personality, with distinctive creases and folds creating a "Z" shape on the doors. The interior saw improvements in material quality, offering a slightly above-average feel for the compact car class. Despite some hard plastics, the Elantra's cabin was well-equipped with advanced tech, making it a compelling choice for buyers seeking style and value.

The 2021 BMW 3 Series offered a range of powertrains, starting with the base 330i's 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The 330e plug-in hybrid combined a less powerful version of this engine with electric assist, achieving 288 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The M340i featured a turbo inline-six engine, producing 382 hp and 369 lb-ft. All models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and the option of rear-wheel or xDrive all-wheel drive. The M340i could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds, while the 330i took 5.6 seconds. Despite its technical prowess, the 3 Series lacked engagement, with a clunky transition from electric to gasoline power in the 330e and a disconnected driving experience.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra offered multiple powertrain options, starting with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT and front-wheel drive. The Elantra Hybrid featured a 1.6-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with a 32-kilowatt electric motor, delivering 139 hp and up to 195 lb-ft of torque, along with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The N Line variant boasted a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, available with a six-speed manual or seven-speed DCT. The N Line's sport-tuned suspension and multi-link independent rear suspension enhanced its handling dynamics, making it a fun and engaging drive. However, the sport seats, while supportive, could be uncomfortable on long journeys.

The 2021 BMW 3 Series excelled in interior space for a small luxury sedan, offering the best rear headroom in its segment and above-average front headroom. However, legroom was average, and rear-seat passengers might feel cramped. The 3 Series provided 17 cubic feet of cargo space in gasoline models, but the 330e's battery pack reduced it to 13.2 cubic feet. The trunk's long-and-narrow shape required an awkward reach to maximize space. The cockpit was well-designed, with a touchscreen positioned for easy access and good outward visibility.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra was designed for ease of use, with clearly marked controls and ample storage options. Despite its compact size, the Elantra offered excellent outward visibility and a comfortable cabin. The rear seat accommodated three children comfortably, though taller adults might prefer the front due to the sloped roofline. Cargo space was adequate at 14.2 cubic feet, with a trunk that could fit a surprising amount of gear. However, the trunk lid support arms could crush items, and the power tilt-and-slide moonroof produced a droning noise when fully open. The lack of rear USB ports and air conditioning vents was a minor inconvenience.

The 2021 BMW 3 Series featured the standard iDrive infotainment system with an 8.8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and USB ports. Gasoline models included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the 330e only offered CarPlay. The optional Live Cockpit Professional system added a digital instrument cluster and navigation, with a head-up display available. The system was user-friendly, with high-quality graphics and multiple control options, including gesture controls and a voice assistant. However, some features felt gimmicky, and many were optional extras.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra impressed with its technology offerings, starting with an 8-inch display audio touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and dual USB ports on the base SE trim. Higher trims added more speakers, satellite radio, and Blue Link connected services. The Limited trims featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, an eight-speaker Bose audio system, and a digital instrument cluster. Hyundai Digital Key was standard on N Line and Limited trims, allowing keyless access via an Android smartphone. The infotainment system was easy to pair with smartphones, though the six-speaker audio system was only adequate.

The 2021 BMW 3 Series received a “Top Safety Pick” award from the IIHS, with top “Good” scores in all crash tests. However, headlight scores were mixed, and the optional Active Driving Assistant Professional system scored lower in vehicle-to-pedestrian front-crash prevention. The NHTSA had not published safety ratings for this model. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Additional packages offered adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and a parking-assist package with a 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra came with a comprehensive SmartSense suite of driver-assist technologies, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane-keeping assistance. Additional features included driver-attention warning, automatic high-beam headlights, and Safe Exit Warning. Higher trims offered adaptive cruise control, rear automatic braking, and Highway Drive Assist. The Elantra received five stars from the NHTSA for overall crash protection and top "Good" ratings from the IIHS in all crash tests, with the Limited trim's LED headlights receiving a "Good" rating.