2022 BMW 2 Series vs 2021 Hyundai Elantra

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra was a standout in the compact sedan category, thanks to its bold and distinctive design. It embraced Hyundai’s Sensuous Sportiness design language, featuring sharp creases and dramatic angles that gave it a unique character. The Z-shaped dent in the doors, a controversial design element, was intended to break conventional automotive design rules and add to the Elantra's individuality. The car's appearance improved with higher trim levels, which included options like the SE, SEL, N Line, and Limited, as well as a hybrid powertrain. Inside, the Elantra offered a driver-focused dashboard and center console, with higher trims boasting a more upscale and modern look, particularly in the Limited or Hybrid Limited with its gray interior.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe presented a new exterior design that avoided the aggressive front fascia seen in other BMW models. The 2 Series was available in rear-wheel-drive 230i Coupe and all-wheel-drive M240i xDrive Coupe trims, with a four-door Gran Coupe variant also offered. The Coupe variants featured a longer, wider, and lower stance than their predecessors, with a leaner, aerodynamic appearance. The M240i xDrive Coupe had a more performance-oriented styling, with shadowy M-type accents and standard M Shadowline package. The interior was straightforward and driver-oriented, with standard perforated SensaTec upholstery and optional Vernasca leather. The 2 Series offered a high-end vibe with mixed material finishes, though some penny-pinching plastics were evident.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra offered a range of powertrain options, including a standard 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and a high-performance Elantra N with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 276 horsepower. The Elantra N was particularly impressive, with features like an electronic limited-slip differential and an electronically controlled suspension. The Elantra Hybrid combined a 1.6-liter engine with an electric motor for 139 horsepower, offering instant torque and a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Elantra N Line, with its turbocharged 1.6-liter engine producing 201 horsepower, provided a sporty driving experience with a manual gearbox and sport suspension.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe packed significant performance, with the 230i Coupe featuring a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine delivering 255 horsepower and the M240i xDrive boasting a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 382 horsepower. The 230i Coupe accelerated to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, while the M240i xDrive achieved it in 4.1 seconds. Both models came with an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, calibrated for smooth and quick shifts. The M240i xDrive included performance features like an aerodynamic kit, adaptive M suspension, and M Sport brakes, providing balanced and refined handling. However, the driving experience was somewhat disconnected, with numb steering feel and a lack of engagement.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra was classified as a midsize car by the EPA, offering a spacious interior with height-adjustable driver’s seat and tilt/telescopic steering wheel. The rear seat provided ample legroom and foot space, though the backrest shape and angle lacked upper back support. The Elantra's trunk offered 14.2 cubic feet of space, with a 60/40-split folding rear seat for added utility. However, the absence of a height-adjustable front passenger seat and hard plastic upper door panels were drawbacks.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series was compact, with limited rear seat space suitable for children or short trips. The coupe's slanted roofline and design elements restricted rear headroom and trunk access. The trunk offered 10 cubic feet of cargo space, with 40/20/40-split fold-down rear seats for flexibility. The interior featured soft touch points and improved ergonomics, with updated multifunction buttons on the steering wheel and a layout similar to other BMW models.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the Limited trim offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and a digital instrumentation screen. The Limited trim also included a 64-color ambient lighting system and a Bose premium sound system. Hyundai Digital Key allowed for smartphone-based vehicle access and control.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series came standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen and a 5.1-inch driver information display, featuring BMW Live Cockpit Plus with over-the-air updates, cloud-based navigation, and connected services. The optional Live Cockpit Professional upgraded to a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital display. The 2 Series also offered a WiFi hotspot, wireless smartphone integration, and a Harman Kardon sound system.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra was built on a new platform with multiple structural collision energy pathways. It came with SmartSense, Hyundai’s suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and more. Safety upgrades included cyclist detection, adaptive cruise control, and Highway Drive Assist.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series featured Active Driving Assistant, with standard blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, lane departure warning, and more. Optional safety features included adaptive front LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, and BMW Drive Recorder. The 2 Series had not yet been rated by safety organizations.