2024 Honda Accord Hybrid vs 2023 Hyundai Elantra

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra offered a diverse range of options to suit various preferences and budgets. Starting with the affordable base Elantra SE, buyers could opt for the more upscale SEL or Limited trims, with the latter providing a surprisingly premium feel for its price. The Elantra Hybrid models, available in Blue or Limited trims, delivered impressive fuel efficiency, achieving between 50 mpg and 54 mpg in combined driving. For those seeking a sportier experience, the turbocharged Elantra N Line and the performance-oriented Elantra N, with its 276-horsepower engine, were available. The Elantra's pricing ranged from $21,545 to $33,245, with the Limited test vehicle priced at $27,395. While the exterior design was polarizing, the interior, particularly in the Limited trim, impressed with its stylish Melange with Gray theme, ambient lighting, and high-tech displays, though it was marred by some hard plastic elements.

The 2024 Honda Accord Hybrid, available in Sport, EX-L, Sport-L, and Touring trims, was priced between $32,895 and $38,890, excluding the destination charge. The Accord's redesign introduced a clean and technical look, complemented by machined-finish 19-inch wheels on the Sport and Touring trims. The Touring test car featured Canyon River Blue metallic paint and a black leather interior, though the lack of gray leather was a missed opportunity. The interior boasted a gray headliner, contrast stitching, and metallic finishes, creating an 'Acura Lite' feel. While the lower cabin plastics appeared too shiny for a $40,000 car, the overall interior quality was impressive.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra Limited's performance specs were modest, with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive, the Elantra Limited wasn't fast but offered a peppy driving experience. Despite its torsion-beam rear axle suspension, the Elantra Limited delivered a surprisingly engaging ride, averaging 33 mpg during testing, close to its EPA rating of 34 mpg. The car's handling was composed, with a communicative ride, well-calibrated brakes, and suitable steering effort. While not as fun as the Elantra N Line or N, the Limited trim provided consistent handling and a stable ride, aided by 17-inch wheels and 225/45 tires. However, the steering lacked sharpness, and the brakes showed some shuddering under heavy use.

The 2024 Honda Accord Hybrid featured a two-motor hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors. This setup produced 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque, with the latter available from zero to 2,000 rpm. The Accord Hybrid's front-wheel-drive configuration provided zippy acceleration, especially in city driving, and effortless cruising at higher speeds. During testing, the Touring trim achieved 43.1 mpg, slightly below its EPA rating of 44 mpg. The Accord Hybrid's ride and handling were impressive, offering a responsive and natural driving experience. The car's steering, regenerative braking, and suspension contributed to its enjoyable dynamics, making it an excellent daily driver.

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 leather-wrapped power driver's seat, and dual-zone automatic climate control. However, rear-seat passengers faced a reclined backrest and lacked air conditioning vents and USB ports. The Elantra's trunk provided 14.2 cubic feet of cargo space, with a 60/40-split folding back seat for added utility.

The 2024 Honda Accord Hybrid prioritized comfort, though taller drivers might find the seat adjustment limited. The Accord Hybrid offered a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, with heated front seats in leather-trimmed models. Rear passengers enjoyed ample legroom, headroom, and supportive seating, with air conditioning vents and USB ports in the Touring trim. The Accord's trunk boasted 16.7 cubic feet of cargo space, accessible via remote keyless entry.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra featured a 10.25-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment display, 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 connections. The voice recognition system had mixed results, and the Bose audio system underwhelmed compared to competitors. The Elantra also offered Digital Key technology and Leading Vehicle Departure Alert.

The 2024 Honda Accord Hybrid came with a 10.2-inch digital instrumentation display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Alexa Built-in, and HondaLink services. The Touring trim added a 12-speaker Bose sound system, wireless charging, and Google Built-in. However, voice recognition issues with Google Assistant and Alexa led to reliance on Apple CarPlay and Siri. The Accord's digital instrumentation prioritized practicality over visual flair.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra excelled in safety, with standard features like automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Limited trim added cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Elantra's driving aids were smooth and reliable, earning a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Honda Accord Hybrid received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, thanks to its Honda Sensing suite. Standard features included automatic high-beam headlights, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The EX-L trim added parking sensors, while the Touring gained low-speed automatic braking. However, the Accord's safety features faced challenges in bright sunlight, and the adaptive cruise control left gaps for other drivers to cut in.