2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid vs 2021 BMW 5 Series

The 2021 BMW 5 Series presented a restrained design, distinguishing itself from other BMW sedans with its understated elegance. It underwent a minor styling refresh, resulting in a sleeker appearance. The standard LED headlights were more streamlined, and the signature twin-kidney grille was enlarged, though not excessively so. Additional updates included trapezoidal tailpipes, L-shaped taillights, and new bumpers for the M Sport Package. The interior retained the familiar BMW layout, with specific design elements that reinforced the brand's identity. While the lower trims featured SensaTec upholstery, higher trims offered Dakota and Nappa leather options, enhancing the luxury feel. The aluminum trim added a touch of sophistication, although the sporty steering wheel seemed out of place in the otherwise luxurious interior.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid carried over its bold design from the previous model year, standing out in the sedan market with its distinctive styling. Despite some criticism of its catfish-like appearance, the Sonata Hybrid's exterior was designed to attract attention, featuring a matte gray paint scheme and aerodynamic details. Inside, the cabin was more conventional, offering soft-touch surfaces and a modern infotainment system. The seats were comfortable and supportive, making long trips enjoyable for both front and rear passengers. The Sonata Hybrid was available in three trims: Blue, SEL, and Limited, each offering a range of features from basic amenities to advanced technology like a solar panel roof and a larger touchscreen in the Limited trim.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series offered a variety of powertrain options, starting with the 530i's 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This model could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. The 540i featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, delivering 335 hp and 362 lb-ft of torque, achieving zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds with rear-wheel drive. The M550i xDrive and M5 models provided even more power, with the latter reaching 617 hp in Competition spec. Additionally, the 530e plug-in hybrid offered a combined output of 288 hp and an electric-only driving capability.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid combined a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 192 horsepower. The power was delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. The Sonata Hybrid offered solid acceleration and a smooth transition between electric and gasoline power. It featured multiple drive modes, including Eco, Sport, Custom, and Smart, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience. The Sonata Hybrid's driving dynamics were refined, with precise steering and minimal body roll. The brakes provided solid stopping power, contributing to a confident driving experience.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series, available as a four-door, five-seat sedan, offered a spacious interior with competitive front-seat space and ample rear-seat room. The trunk provided 14.0 cubic feet of space, surpassing rivals like the Audi A6 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The rear bench featured a 40/20/20 split fold for added versatility. The 16-way power front seats offered comfort and support, though forward visibility was somewhat limited due to the long hood.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid boasted 16 cubic feet of trunk space, one of the largest among midsize hybrid sedans. The cabin provided generous legroom for front passengers and adequate rear-seat space, accommodating four adults comfortably. The sloping roofline slightly impacted rear door access, but once inside, headroom was sufficient. The front passengers enjoyed convenient storage options, including door pockets and a center console, with a wireless charging pad in the Limited trim.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series featured a standard 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with the iDrive 7 system and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. It included Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and a WiFi hotspot. The rotary knob controller provided a tactile interface, while voice and gesture controls offered alternative options. However, the gesture controls required learning specific gestures, which could be challenging.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with the Limited trim offering a 10.25-inch screen with navigation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though CarPlay only occupied two-thirds of the screen. The touchscreen layout was intuitive, and the Limited trim included a head-up display, though its adjustability was limited for taller drivers. The stereo featured a traditional volume knob, while haptic buttons controlled other functions.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series had not been crash-tested by the IIHS for that year, but the 2020 model received a "Top Safety Pick+" award. Standard safety features included lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. The Driving Assistance Plus Package added adaptive cruise control, traffic-jam assist, and lane-keep assist. BMW's driver-assist tech was noted for its sophistication and smooth operation.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid came standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Limited trim added a head-up display, 360-degree surround-view monitor, and parking sensors. The Sonata Hybrid received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was a 2021 IIHS Top Safety Pick, with top marks for its driver-assistance features and optional LED headlights.