2021 Volkswagen Passat vs 2021 Hyundai Elantra

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra stood out with its bold and distinctive design, characterized by sharp creases and dramatic angles, thanks to Hyundai's Sensuous Sportiness design language. The Z-shaped dent in the doors, a controversial yet unique design cue, added to its character, making it unmistakable among compact sedans. The Elantra's interior was driver-focused, with a clear delineation between driver and passenger areas, and the higher trim levels offered a more upscale and modern look, especially in the Limited or Hybrid Limited versions with their gray interiors.

In contrast, the 2021 Volkswagen Passat maintained a more understated and traditional design, having undergone a facelift in 2020. Its smooth, aerodynamic shape was reminiscent of 1990s sedans, contributing to a drag coefficient of 0.28. The Passat's interior was clean and functional, with analog controls and a short dashboard enhancing visibility. However, the interior materials were mostly plastic, and the design was considered plain by some, lacking the vibrancy and sportiness found in competitors like the Honda Accord and Mazda 6.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra offered a range of powertrain options, from the standard 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower to the high-performance Elantra N with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 276 horsepower. The Elantra N was particularly praised for its dynamic driving experience, with features like an electronic limited-slip differential and an electronically controlled suspension. The Elantra Hybrid, with its 1.6-liter engine and electric motor, provided a more fuel-efficient option, though real-world fuel economy varied based on driving conditions.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat, on the other hand, was equipped with a single powertrain option: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 174 horsepower and 206 pound-feet of torque. While the torque was impressive, the overall driving experience was unremarkable, lacking the sportiness and excitement found in some competitors. The Passat's ride quality and cabin noise levels were adequate but not outstanding, and the car's performance on twisty roads was less engaging compared to rivals.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra was classified as a midsize car by the EPA, offering a spacious interior with best-in-class rear-seat legroom. The driver's seat was height-adjustable, and the Limited Hybrid trim included heated and ventilated front seats. However, the lack of a height-adjustable front passenger seat and hard plastic upper door panels were noted drawbacks. The Elantra's trunk offered 14.2 cubic feet of space, with a 60/40-split folding rear seat for added utility.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat boasted 39.1 inches of rear legroom, though it fell short of competitors like the Honda Accord in front legroom and headroom. The driving position was uncomfortable for some, with limited thigh support in the front seats and flat rear seats. The Passat's trunk provided 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space, more than some rivals but less than others. The layout of controls was a highlight, with large buttons and knobs for easy use.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in SE, SEL, and N Line trims. The Limited trim upgraded to a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and a digital instrumentation screen, though it lost wireless smartphone integration. The Elantra also offered a Bose premium sound system and Hyundai Digital Key for added convenience.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat came with the MIB2 infotainment system, featuring a 6.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The R-Line trim added HD Radio, navigation, and a Fender premium audio system. While the touchscreen was small, the Passat's use of dashboard knobs and steering-wheel controls made basic functions easy to access, appealing to drivers who preferred simplicity over tech-heavy features.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra was built on a new platform with multiple structural collision energy pathways. It came standard with SmartSense, Hyundai's suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Additional safety features included blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and Highway Drive Assist, offering a high level of safety for a compact car.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat received top "good" scores in all IIHS crash tests, though its standard headlights were rated "marginal." Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Passat also featured VW's Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and Intelligent Crash Response System, enhancing safety in the event of a collision.