2021 Hyundai Sonata vs 2022 BMW 2 Series

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata presented a bold redesign that was both distinctive and polarizing. Its broad grille and tapered tail made it instantly recognizable, while the N Line version added functional and stylistic enhancements. The front fascia was reworked with larger air intakes, and the profile featured gloss black side mirrors and 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels. The rear was marked by a subtle gloss black lip spoiler and a reworked bumper with a four-outlet exhaust system. Inside, the Sonata N Line offered sport front seats with Nappa leather bolsters and Dinamica suede inserts, red stitching, and dark chrome accents, creating a sporty yet refined atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe received a new exterior design that avoided the aggressive front fascia seen in other BMW models. The 230i Coupe and M240i xDrive Coupe were offered with RWD and AWD configurations, respectively. The 2 Series Coupe was longer, wider, and lower than its predecessor, with a wider kidney grille and flared fenders for a leaner appearance. The M240i xDrive featured performance-oriented styling with shadowy M-type accents. Inside, the 2 Series offered a straightforward, driver-oriented interior with standard perforated SensaTec upholstery and optional Vernasca leather. The updated interior included an 8.8-inch infotainment touchscreen and optional upgrades for added comfort and technology.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line was powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 290 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters and multiple driving modes. The Sonata N Line's performance was enhanced by a sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and 19-inch wheels with performance tires. It delivered a thrilling driving experience, especially on winding roads, with responsive steering and minimal body roll. The Sonata N Line offered a comfortable ride and a quiet cabin, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in combined driving.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe offered impressive performance with its turbocharged engines. The 230i Coupe featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the M240i xDrive boasted a 3.0-liter inline-six with 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The 230i Coupe accelerated to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, while the M240i xDrive achieved it in just 4.1 seconds. Both models came with an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission. The M240i xDrive included performance features like an adaptive M suspension and M Sport brakes, providing stability and agility. However, the driving experience was noted to be somewhat disconnected, with a lack of steering feel and engagement.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line offered comfortable heated front sport seats with Dinamica suede inserts for added support. The rear seats provided limited legroom and thigh support, but rear air conditioning vents and a USB port were included. The Sonata's trunk offered 16 cubic feet of space, with a 60/40-split folding rear seat for added utility. The Smart Trunk hands-free release feature was a convenient addition, though the lack of an interior handle for closing the trunk was a minor inconvenience.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe was compact, with limited rear-seat space suitable for children or short trips. The front seats were relatively spacious, but the slanted roofline reduced rear headroom. The trunk offered 10 cubic feet of cargo space, with 40/20/40-split fold-down rear seats for added versatility. The interior featured soft-touch materials and improved ergonomics, with a layout similar to other BMW models.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line came equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and a Bose premium sound system. The infotainment system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but lacked a WiFi hotspot. The Sonata N Line also featured Hyundai Digital Key, which worked with Android devices, and the Sounds of Nature function for relaxation.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series offered an 8.8-inch touchscreen and a 5.1-inch driver information display as standard. The infotainment system included BMW Live Cockpit Plus, cloud-based navigation, and real-time traffic updates. A WiFi hotspot, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were also standard. The optional Live Cockpit Professional added a head-up display and upgraded the infotainment system. The BMW Digital Key allowed remote access and control via the My BMW App. The standard audio system featured 10 speakers, with an optional Harman Kardon system available.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line was equipped with Hyundai’s SmartSense suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assistance, and more. It also featured a Rear Occupant Alert system and Safe Exit Warning. The Sonata N Line had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of review, but the standard Sonata had high safety ratings.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series included Active Driving Assistant, with features like blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and lane departure warning. It also offered adaptive cruise control, adaptive front LED headlights, and a 360-degree surround view. The BMW Drive Recorder could capture driving footage in the event of a collision. The 2 Series had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of review.