2022 BMW 3 Series vs 2023 Hyundai Elantra

The 2022 BMW 3 Series lineup included the 330i, 330e, M340i, and M3, with base prices ranging from $41,450 to $73,000, excluding a $995 destination charge. Each version had a different powertrain, with the 330i and 330e featuring a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the latter paired with plug-in hybrid technology. The M340i offered a turbocharged six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, while the high-performance M3 was the top-tier model. The M340i test vehicle, priced at $67,390, featured Barbera Red special-order paint, Cognac-color SensaTec upholstery, and several optional packages, including the Driving Assistance and Premium packages. The M340i's exterior design included exclusive grille and bumper designs, Shadowline trim, and blue brake calipers, with 19-inch wheels wrapped in high-performance tires. Inside, the SensaTec upholstery mimicked leather, and the Cognac color provided a trendy contrast against the dark cabin. The 3 Series boasted quality materials and a design focused on driving enjoyment rather than luxury.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra offered a range of options, from the base SE model to the upscale Limited trim. Prices ranged from $21,545 to $33,245, including a $1,095 destination charge. The Elantra Hybrid models achieved between 50 and 54 mpg in combined driving, while the sporty Elantra N Line and performance-tuned Elantra N catered to driving enthusiasts. The Limited test vehicle, priced at $27,395, featured light gray leather seats and interior panels, creating a sharp contrast against the black cabin. The Melange fabric trim added an upscale touch, and the interior included classy nighttime illumination and high-tech displays. However, the hard plastic coating on the upper door panels was a disappointment. Overall, the Elantra Limited's cabin was stylish and well-equipped for its price.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i was equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine featuring 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, producing 382 horsepower between 5,800 and 6,500 rpm and 368 pound-feet of torque from 1,800 to 5,000 rpm. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the M340i accelerated to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The car's M Sport differential, four-wheel ventilated-disc brakes, variable sport steering, and M Sport suspension contributed to its impressive driving dynamics. The optional Adaptive M Suspension further enhanced the car's handling. Despite aggressive driving, the M340i achieved 24.9 mpg, close to the EPA rating of 26 mpg. The M340i's driving experience was described as thrilling, with precise handling and a strong connection to the road, making it a top choice for driving enthusiasts.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra Limited featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 132 pound-feet of torque at 4,500 rpm, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While not fast, the Elantra Limited was peppy and achieved 33 mpg during testing, close to the EPA rating of 34 mpg. The car's torsion-beam rear axle suspension provided a compliant ride and suitable handling for city and suburban driving. On the highway, the Elantra Limited was remarkably quiet. During spirited driving in the Santa Monica Mountains, the Elantra Limited displayed composure and consistent handling, though it lacked the outright fun of the Elantra N Line or Elantra N. The car's steering and brakes were adequate but not exceptional. Overall, the Elantra Limited's driving dynamics exceeded expectations for its specs.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i offered a balance of driving satisfaction and passenger comfort. The power-adjustable front sport seats provided ample support, and the driving position was ideal. Rear seat passengers had enough legroom for four relatively tall people, though the center rear seat was less practical. The car featured a three-zone automatic climate control system, with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel available through the Premium package. The 17 cubic-foot trunk and 40/20/40-split folding rear seat added utility. However, the lack of ventilated front seats and the absence of a sports wagon option were noted drawbacks.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra Limited combined style with practicality. The test vehicle featured proximity-sensing keyless entry, a comfortable six-way power driver's seat, and dual-zone automatic climate control with heated front seats. The rear seat, however, had a reclined backrest and lacked air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. The trunk offered 14.2 cubic feet of cargo space, with a 60/40-split folding back seat for added utility. The Elantra Limited's interior was well-equipped, though the rear seat comfort and lack of certain features were minor drawbacks.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series came standard with Live Cockpit Professional, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The iDrive 7.0 system was intuitive, with multiple control options, including a center console knob, touchscreen, steering wheel controls, and voice recognition. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and a 10-speaker HiFi sound system were standard, though the Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system was no longer available. The Connected Package Pro included BMW Remote Services and the Intelligent Personal Assistant, which responded accurately to various commands. The optional Premium package added a head-up display, though it was challenging to read with polarized sunglasses. The Driving Assistance Professional package included a surround-view camera system, parking sensors, and autonomous parking capability.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra Limited featured 10.25-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment displays, standard in the Limited trim and available in the SEL Convenience package and N Line trim. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, connected services, dynamic voice recognition, navigation, and wireless smartphone charging. However, only Bluetooth supported a wireless connection, requiring a USB port for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The voice recognition system performed well, though it struggled with some commands. The Elantra Limited also had a Bose premium audio system, though its sound quality was not as impressive as in some rivals. Digital Key technology and Leading Vehicle Departure Alert were additional features.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series included Active Guard, featuring forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, city-speed automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. The optional Driving Assistance package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Driving Assistance Professional package included lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, evasive-steering assist, and Extended Traffic Jam Assistant for semi-autonomous driving. The 3 Series earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra offered a comprehensive standard safety package, including automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, and a safe exit warning system. The Elantra Limited added cyclist detection, intersection turning assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, and Highway Driving Assist. The Elantra earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS had not yet rated the 2023 model.