2022 Hyundai Elantra vs 2023 Mazda MAZDA3

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra underwent a significant transformation with its seventh-generation redesign, shedding its previous unremarkable appearance for a bold and striking new look. The redesign introduced a longer wheelbase, wider stance, and lower roofline, creating a dramatic four-door-coupe silhouette that set it apart from its predecessors. The Elantra's exterior styling, while reminiscent of the midsize Sonata sedan, carved out its own unique identity with distinctive creases and folds forming a "Z" shape on the doors. Inside, the Elantra's interior saw improvements in material quality and design, offering a slightly above-average experience for the compact car class. Despite some hard plastics, the Elantra's interior was well-equipped with advanced technology, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 presented a more daring and futuristic design, particularly in its hatchback variant. The sedan maintained conventional proportions, while the hatchback's clean and forward-thinking design stood out. The interior continued the theme of clean futurism, with a simple yet stylish cabin layout. The Mazda3's conventional shifter design and easy-to-use climate controls added to its appeal. However, the rear seating area was notably cramped, with limited legroom and headroom, making it more suitable for front-seat use. The Mazda3's design and ergonomics were geared towards providing a refined and engaging driving experience, with a focus on front-seat comfort and usability.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra offered a range of powertrain options to cater to different driving preferences. The standard engine for the SE, SEL, and Limited trims was a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive. While adequate for most buyers, the engine lacked power during hard acceleration. The Elantra Hybrid, on the other hand, featured a 1.6-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine combined with a 32-kilowatt electric motor, delivering a total system output of 139 hp and up to 195 lb-ft of torque. The Hybrid's six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission provided a more engaging driving experience. The N Line trim offered a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, available with either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed DCT. The N Line's sport-tuned suspension and multi-link independent rear suspension enhanced its handling dynamics, making it a compelling choice for driving enthusiasts.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 featured a base 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four engine producing 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, with a six-speed automatic transmission and optional all-wheel drive. The standout option was the turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular fuel, or 250 hp and 320 lb-ft with premium fuel. The turbo engine provided an engaging driving experience, with well-weighted steering and impressive handling. The Mazda3's Sport mode enhanced the driving dynamics, offering more forceful steering feedback and clever transmission shifts. The car's handling was precise and refined, striking a balance between agility and comfort. The Mazda3's performance was further complemented by its responsive brakes and well-tuned suspension, making it a joy to drive on twisty roads.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra excelled in practicality and usability, offering a compact size that made it easy to navigate tight spaces. The interior provided excellent outward visibility and comfortable seating, although the N Line's low seating position required extra effort to get in and out. The Elantra's rear seat accommodated three children comfortably on long journeys, though taller adults would find more comfort in the front due to limited headroom in the back. The trunk offered 14.2 cubic feet of cargo space, sufficient for a weekend's worth of luggage, despite a narrow trunk opening. However, the lack of rear USB ports and air conditioning vents were minor inconveniences for back-seat passengers.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3, while stylish, had limitations in interior space. The sedan provided 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space, while the hatchback offered 20.1 cubic feet. However, the rear seating area was cramped, with limited legroom and headroom, making it less suitable for rear passengers. The front seating area featured a decently sized center console compartment and ergonomic design, but the lid's sliding mechanism was frustrating. The Mazda3's interior was designed for front-seat comfort and usability, with a focus on providing a refined driving experience.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra impressed with its technology offerings, especially considering its price point. The base SE trim came with an 8-inch display audio touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a rearview camera. Higher trims added features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, an eight-speaker Bose premium audio system, and Hyundai Digital Key. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with seamless Apple CarPlay integration. However, the six-speaker audio system's performance was only adequate, lacking the richness of premium systems.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated via a dial in the center console, which proved to be a weak point. The menu navigation was clumsy, and the lack of touchscreen functionality made it unintuitive. The system's learning curve was steep, and using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto was confusing. The Mazda3 came with two USB ports, HD radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice control. Our test model included upgrades like navigation, satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Bose premium stereo system, which delivered excellent sound quality.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra prioritized safety with its SmartSense suite of driver-assist technologies, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane-keeping assistance. Additional features like adaptive cruise control and rear automatic braking were available on higher trims. The Elantra received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, with five stars for overall crash protection and "Good" ratings in all individual crash tests.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 also offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, traffic-sign recognition, and a 360-degree parking camera system. However, the massive C-pillar created a significant blind spot, posing a safety concern. The infotainment system's confusing layout also presented a distraction, impacting safety.