2021 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3, following its 2019 redesign, continued to impress with its award-winning design. Its bodywork exuded a blend of drama and sophistication, making it a standout in its class. The sedan version, which was tested, offered a more conservative look compared to the aggressive stance of the hatchback. The 2.5 Turbo model, available in both body styles, featured all-wheel drive and came in standard or Premium Plus trim. The interior, especially in the Premium Plus trim, was lined with Nappa leather and showcased Mazda's attention to detail with metallic accents and a clear gauge set. Despite some use of hard plastics, the design and quality aimed to elevate the Mazda3 into the premium segment.

In contrast, the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid carried over its bold design from the previous year, standing out even in a market embracing aggressive styling. The test model featured a matte gray paint and aerodynamic details that added to its striking appearance. Inside, the Sonata Hybrid offered a more conventional and refined cabin with soft-touch surfaces and a modern infotainment system. The seats were comfortable for long trips, and the rear passengers enjoyed ample space. The Sonata Hybrid was available in Blue, SEL, and Limited trims, with the Limited trim offering features like a solar panel roof and leather upholstery, enhancing its appeal.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 Turbo was powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 250 horsepower with 93-octane fuel and 227 horsepower with 87-octane. The engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and Mazda's i-Activ AWD system, enhancing corner-exit capability. The turbocharged powertrain added minimal weight but significantly boosted performance, offering a smooth and predictable driving experience. The Mazda3 Turbo featured improved steering and suspension, providing a sporty drive. Despite its performance, the car averaged 20.4 mpg during testing, below the EPA estimate of 27 mpg.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid combined a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 192 horsepower. Power was routed to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. The Limited trim included a solar panel roof, adding to the driving range. The Sonata Hybrid offered solid acceleration and a refined driving experience, with light but precise steering and minimal body roll. The brakes provided strong stopping power, and the car's drive modes allowed for customization of the driving experience.

The Mazda3 2.5 Turbo's interior featured Nappa leather and heated front seats, but lacked some premium features like ventilated seats and rear-seat amenities. Storage was adequate, with a trunk space of 13.2 cubic feet. The hatchback version offered more utility with 20.1 cubic feet of space behind the rear seat and 47.1 cubic feet with it folded down.

The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid provided 16 cubic feet of trunk space, one of the largest among midsize hybrid sedans. The cabin offered ample legroom for front passengers and decent rear-seat space. The sloping roofline affected rear door access, but once inside, headroom was adequate. Front passengers had convenient storage options, including a center console and a wireless charging pad.

Mazda's infotainment system, Mazda Connect, featured an 8.8-inch display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the lack of a touchscreen and poor voice-recognition technology were drawbacks. The system was paired with a 12-speaker Bose sound system, offering good audio quality. A head-up display was standard, providing useful driving information.

The Sonata Hybrid's infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen, with the Limited trim offering a 10.25-inch screen with navigation. The system was intuitive, with crisp graphics and a traditional volume knob. The Limited trim also featured a head-up display, though its adjustability was limited for taller drivers.

The Mazda3's i-ActiveSense suite included a range of advanced driving assistance systems, designed to support rather than replace the driver. The Premium Plus trim added features like a surround-view camera and Traffic Jam Assist. The Mazda3 received top safety ratings from NHTSA and was expected to maintain its IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" rating.

The Sonata Hybrid came standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including forward-collision avoidance and adaptive cruise control. The Limited trim added a head-up display and a surround-view monitor. The Sonata Hybrid earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick.