2024 BMW 5 Series vs 2023 Hyundai Elantra

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra presented a diverse lineup catering to a wide range of preferences and budgets. With its base model priced significantly below the average new car cost in America, it offered an affordable entry point, while the SEL and Limited trims provided more upscale options. The Elantra Hybrid variants, with their impressive fuel efficiency of up to 54 mpg, maintained the same aesthetic as the standard models, save for a subtle "Hybrid" badge. The sporty Elantra N Line and the high-performance Elantra N, with its 276-horsepower engine, catered to driving enthusiasts. Despite its controversial exterior design, the Elantra's interior, especially in the Limited trim, was praised for its stylish and high-tech features, though it was marred by some hard plastic elements.

In contrast, the 2024 BMW 5 Series embraced a minimalist and aerodynamic design, characterized by a prominent grille and intricate wheels. The M Sport package added a touch of flair, complemented by the Carbon Black paint. Inside, the 5 Series featured a modern and elegant cabin with Smoke-color Veganza artificial leather and aluminum trim. However, the interior was criticized for glare and reflections, complicating the use of controls. The BMW Curved Display, housing the iDrive 8.5 system, offered a technologically advanced experience, though the touch-sensing controls were less user-friendly. Despite its luxury appeal, the 5 Series was noted for lacking the driving connection that once defined BMW, leaving some enthusiasts unsatisfied.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra Limited, with its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, was not designed for speed enthusiasts. Its Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) and front-wheel drive setup, along with a torsion-beam rear axle, might have seemed underwhelming on paper. However, the Elantra Limited surprised with its peppy performance and commendable fuel efficiency, averaging 33 mpg during testing. While not as engaging as the Elantra N Line or N, the Limited offered a balanced ride and handling, with a quiet cabin and a compliant ride in city and highway conditions. The 17-inch wheels and 225/45 tires contributed to its stable and predictable dynamics, though the steering lacked sharpness, and the brakes showed signs of heating during spirited driving.

The 2024 BMW 5 Series, specifically the 530i model, featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. A 48-volt mild-hybrid system enhanced efficiency, and the car could accelerate to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. The 530i excelled in real-world driving, offering smooth acceleration and a refined powertrain. The M Sport suspension provided a supple ride, and the car handled twisty roads with ease, thanks to its variable-ratio sport steering and capable braking components. However, the driving experience felt disconnected, akin to playing a video game, with the car's remote and muted sensation detracting from the traditional BMW driving pleasure. Fuel economy fell short of expectations, with the 530i averaging 26.7 mpg during testing.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra balanced style with practicality, offering a spacious interior suitable for a family of four. The Limited model featured proximity-sensing keyless entry, a comfortable six-way power driver's seat, and dual-zone automatic climate control. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised by a reclined backrest and the absence of air conditioning vents and USB ports. The Elantra's trunk provided 14.2 cubic feet of cargo space, with a hands-free release feature and 60/40-split folding back seats for added utility.

The 2024 BMW 5 Series excelled as a luxury car, with a spacious interior that felt larger than a midsize sedan. The power-adjustable front seats, wrapped in Veganza artificial leather, offered exceptional comfort, though ventilated seats were notably absent. The rear seats were equally comfortable, with ample legroom and headroom, though passengers were advised to avoid scuffing their shoes on the front seat bases. Interior storage was adequate, with a tray for smartphones and a split-top center armrest bin. The trunk, with a capacity of 18.4 cubic feet, was compromised by a spare tire storage box, reducing usable space.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra impressed with its 10.25-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment displays, available in the SEL Convenience package and standard in the N Line trim. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and more, though only Bluetooth supported wireless connectivity. The voice recognition system had mixed results, and the Bose audio system fell short of expectations. Digital Key technology and Leading Vehicle Departure Alert were notable features, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2024 BMW 5 Series featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system under the BMW Curved Display. The iDrive 8.5 system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, connected services, and more, though the touch-sensing controls were less intuitive. The Premium Package added a head-up display and gesture controls, though the Intelligent Personal Assistant had inconsistent performance. The Bowers and Wilkins audio system, while visually impressive, did not meet sound quality expectations. The Premium Package also included advanced parking and interior camera features, though some seemed more gimmicky than practical.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Limited trim added cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control with Highway Driving Assist. The Elantra's driving aids were praised for their smooth and subtle operation, enhancing driver confidence. The NHTSA awarded the 2023 Elantra a five-star overall rating, though the IIHS had not yet updated its rating for the model year.

The 2024 BMW 5 Series came equipped with Active Driving Assistant, featuring forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Driving Assistant Professional Package offered more advanced features, though our test car did not include it. The lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist were subtle and effective, enhancing the driving experience. The IIHS awarded the 5 Series a Top Safety Pick rating, though it had not yet undergone the new moderate-overlap frontal-impact evaluation.