2023 Honda Accord Hybrid vs 2023 BMW 3 Series

The 2023 BMW 3 Series, a staple of the Bavarian brand since 1975, received a mid-cycle refresh for its seventh-generation model. The lineup included the petrol-powered 330i and M340i, as well as the plug-in hybrid 330e. Subtle yet sporty exterior design modifications were evident, with a narrow kidney grille and redesigned full-LED headlights featuring slimmed-down silhouettes and inverted L-shaped daytime running lights. The lower air intakes and flared rear-wheel arches added to its sporty appeal, complemented by standard 18-inch double-spoke light alloys and optional 19-inch wheels. Shadowline trim became standard, with new paint choices like Skyscraper Grey and Brooklyn Grey metallic available for specific trims. The M340i boasted exclusive features like a mesh-design kidney grille and trapezoidal tailpipes. Inside, the 3 Series showcased the new BMW iDrive 8 with a 27.2-inch BMW Curved Display, creating a driver-centric cockpit with a minimalist dashboard design.

The 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid, particularly in the range-topping Touring trim, exuded elegance reminiscent of luxury sedans. Its sleek exterior, stretching three inches longer than before, featured a redesigned front grille, blacked-out LED headlights, and taillights spanning the rear width. The overall length increased by 2.8 inches, and the rear track by 0.4 inches, giving it a planted stance accentuated by a long, flowing roofline. Priced at approximately $38,435, the Accord Touring offered seven exterior colors and rode on 19-inch alloy wheels with black accents. The interior mirrored the Civic and CR-V models, with a honeycomb mesh trim hiding the dash-mounted air vents and a 12.3-inch touchscreen with features like Amazon Alexa, wireless device charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Canyon River Blue Metallic paint and black leather interior added to its upscale feel, with generous legroom and shoulder room, though headroom was slightly compromised by the sleek roofline.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series carried over its powertrains from previous model years. The 330i and 330e featured a twin-turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, with the 330e adding electric assist. The M340i boasted a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. All models had an eight-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive standard and xDrive all-wheel drive available. The 330i produced 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The 330e offered a combined output of 288 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds and up to 22 miles of electric-only range. The M340i delivered 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. Fuel economy for the 330i was 25 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, and 29 mpg combined, while the 330e achieved 28 combined mpg and 75 MPGe combined in electric mode. The M340i had 23 city, 31 highway, and 26 combined mpg. Our test drive of the RWD 330i with various packages revealed a comfortable and precise ride, though the turbo-four engine's note was somewhat muted.

The 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, producing 204 horsepower sent to the front wheels via a continuously variable automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was the only option. The Accord Hybrid switched seamlessly between electric and gas power, providing smooth and efficient performance. While not overwhelming in acceleration, it handled highway merges and passing maneuvers with ease. The suspension effectively absorbed road imperfections, offering a balanced ride. The regenerative braking system, upgraded to six levels of regen, allowed for fine-tuning and a more comfortable experience for drivers new to regenerative braking. The Accord's agile handling made it relaxing to drive in various environments, and its increased length did not hinder parking in tight spots.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series offered a compact yet comfortable interior. Front headroom measured 38.7 inches, with 42 inches of legroom. Rear occupants had 37.6 inches of headroom and 35.2 inches of legroom, providing ample space for average-sized adults. Standard SensaTec faux leather upholstery and power-adjustable front sport seats with good bolstering and adjustable thigh support ensured comfort, though the seat bottom cushion was somewhat stiff. The leather steering wheel provided a solid grip, and ergonomics were excellent, with intuitive controls and the iconic iDrive controller knob. Cargo capacity was 17 cubic feet, with rear seats folding in a 40/20/40 split for larger items. Standard features included a power moonroof, with available options like a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, power lumbar support, keyless entry, and remote start.

The 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid's cabin adopted the layout of the Civic and CR-V models, featuring a honeycomb mesh trim hiding the dash-mounted air vents. The 12.3-inch touchscreen took center stage, with convenient buttons and dials for climate control within easy reach. The Touring trim included heated and ventilated seats, adding to the upscale feel. The traditional gearshift replaced the previous button system, providing a more intuitive experience. The front seats, redesigned for better support, offered comfort during long drives, while the rear seats provided generous legroom and shoulder room, though headroom was slightly compromised by the sleek roofline. Trunk space was 16.7 cubic feet, with a deep and easily accessible load floor.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series featured the advanced BMW iDrive 8 system, with a curved display combining a 12.3-inch driver information display and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The system was intuitive, with touch functionality similar to a smartphone or tablet. Widgets on the main menu could be reorganized, and the driver information cluster was customizable. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant allowed for natural speech commands, minimizing frustration. Standard tech features included USB-C ports, enhanced Bluetooth, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, a 10-speaker HiFi sound system, a one-year SiriusXM subscription, and over-the-air updates. Available options included wireless device charging, a premium Harman Kardon surround sound system, and a wireless 5G hotspot.

The 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a 10.2-inch digital instrument display. The system was user-friendly, with intuitive menus and easy-to-navigate graphics. The Touring trim included advanced tech features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless device charging pad, "Hey Google" virtual assistant, Amazon Alexa, and a head-up display. A 12-speaker Bose audio system, HD radio, and four USB ports were also standard. The physical volume knob and climate control buttons added to the user-friendly experience.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series received a five-star crash safety rating from the National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) for RWD and xDrive models, though the PHEV model was not rated. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) had not rated the 2023 model, but the 2022 model earned a Top Safety Pick nod. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, LED headlights, BMW Assist eCall, Active Guard, and the Active Protection System. Additional safety features were available in packages, such as the Driving Assistance Package and the Driving Assistance Professional Package, which included semi-autonomous driving systems. Optional safety features included Parking Distance Control and Drive Recorder.

The 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid came with a comprehensive suite of active safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, traffic sign recognition, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and a rear-seat reminder. The Touring trim added a multi-angle rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, and a head-up display. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were optional for all trims. The Accord Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with the highest possible scores in crash tests, headlights, crash avoidance, and child seat compatibility.