2023 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2023 Hyundai Elantra

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra offered a range of options to suit various budgets and preferences. Starting with the affordable base SE model, buyers could upgrade to the SEL or the more luxurious Limited trim, which provided an upscale feel without a hefty price tag. The Elantra Hybrid models, available in Blue or Limited trims, boasted impressive fuel efficiency of 50-54 mpg combined and looked nearly identical to their non-hybrid counterparts, save for a subtle "Hybrid" badge. For driving enthusiasts, the turbocharged Elantra N Line and the high-performance Elantra N, with 276 horsepower, were developed with input from the Nürburgring and Namyang R&D center, offering a thrilling driving experience.

The Elantra's exterior design was polarizing, with some appreciating its bold styling while others found it less appealing. Inside, the Limited trim's Melange with Gray interior featured light gray leather seats and upscale fabric trim, creating a sophisticated ambiance. The cabin's high-tech displays, ambient lighting, and unique style made it stand out, although the hard plastic on the upper door panels was a minor letdown.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 featured striking headlights and a bold grille, available in both sedan and hatchback body styles. While the sedan had conventional proportions, the hatchback's daring design was one of the most forward-thinking on the market. The futuristic rear angles added to its appeal, though they came with some practical drawbacks. Inside, the clean and minimalist cabin design continued, with the infotainment system seamlessly integrated into the dash. The conventional shifter and climate controls were user-friendly, and the steering wheel, though cluttered with controls, had an elegant design.

Trim levels ranged from the 2.5 S to the top-tier 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus. Standard features on the base model included 16-inch alloy wheels, pushbutton start, keyless entry, and an 8.8-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims added amenities like dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery, a moonroof, heated seats, and advanced driver assistance features. The 2.5 Turbo models offered a more powerful engine, with the top trim adding premium features like reverse automatic emergency braking and a surround-view parking monitor.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra Limited's 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produced 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive. While these specs might not excite enthusiasts, the Elantra Limited's driving dynamics were surprisingly engaging. It wasn't fast, but it was peppy, and the CVT was one of the best in its class. During testing, the Elantra Limited averaged 33 mpg, close to its EPA rating of 34 mpg. The car's handling was composed, with a compliant ride, well-calibrated brakes, and suitable steering effort levels. On the highway, it was remarkably quiet, and on twisty roads, it displayed consistent and predictable handling.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a base 2.5-liter engine with 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, available with front-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive was also an option. Our test model featured the optional turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, delivering 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque on regular fuel, or 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet with premium fuel. The turbo engine provided a thrilling driving experience, with well-weighted steering, excellent balance, and agile handling. The Sport mode enhanced the driving dynamics, making the steering heavier and the transmission more responsive. The brakes were firm and required precise control, adding to the sporty feel. The Mazda3's handling was a standout feature, offering a blend of precision and refinement while maintaining ride comfort.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra combined style with practicality, offering a spacious interior suitable for a family of four. The test vehicle featured proximity-sensing keyless entry, a comfortable six-way power driver's seat, dual-zone climate control, and heated front seats. However, rear-seat passengers might find the backrest too reclined and the lack of rear air vents and USB ports inconvenient. The trunk provided 14.2 cubic feet of cargo space, with the ability to stow full-size suitcases on their sides and a 60/40-split folding back seat for added utility.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 sedan offered 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space, while the hatchback provided 20.1 cubic feet. However, the rear seating area was cramped, with limited legroom and headroom, making it suitable for occasional use only. The front seating area featured a decently sized center console compartment and ergonomic controls, though the console lid's design was frustrating. The Mazda3's interior was designed for front-seat comfort, with the rear seats best used in a pinch.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra featured a 10.25-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment display, available in the SEL Convenience package and standard on the N Line trim. This setup 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 connection for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The voice recognition system worked well for most commands but struggled with some, like tuning to specific music genres. The Bose premium audio system was a letdown compared to competitors. The Elantra also offered Digital Key technology and Leading Vehicle Departure Alert, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 came with an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated via a dial in the center console. This non-touchscreen setup was a weak point, with clumsy menu navigation and a steep learning curve. The system's integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was confusing, requiring constant attention to operate. Standard features included two USB ports, HD radio, Bluetooth, and voice control. Our test model had upgrades like navigation, satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Bose premium stereo system, which delivered excellent sound quality.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, and a safe exit warning system. The Limited trim 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's driving aids were smooth and subtle, enhancing driver confidence. The 2022 Elantra earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, and the 2023 model received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 also offered a robust set of standard safety features, including forward automatic emergency braking, automatic cruise control, pedestrian and cyclist detection, adaptive headlights, lane-departure warning, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, traffic-sign recognition, traffic jam assist, and a 360-degree parking camera system. However, the hatchback's large C-pillar created a significant blind spot, and the infotainment system's confusing layout posed a safety risk by distracting the driver.