2022 Hyundai Elantra vs 2021 Hyundai Sonata

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata, redesigned for the 2020 model year, presented a bold and distinctive look that was unmistakably a Sonata. Its daring design, from the broad grille to the tapered tail, was a love-it-or-hate-it proposition. The N Line treatment further enhanced the Sonata's appeal with functional and stylistic changes, such as a restyled front fascia with larger air intakes and gloss black side mirrors. The bold 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels and a subtle gloss black lip spoiler added to its stealthy performance suggestion. Inside, the Sonata N Line featured sport front seats with premium Nappa leather bolsters, red stitching, and a panoramic sunroof, creating a two-tone appearance and a roomier feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Hyundai Elantra underwent a significant transformation with its 2021 redesign, shedding its previous rental-car looks for a striking new appearance. The seventh-generation Elantra boasted a longer wheelbase, wider stance, and lower roofline, resulting in a dramatic four-door-coupe silhouette. Its unique exterior styling, with a "Z" shape created by creases and folds on the doors, set it apart from the Sonata and other compact sedans. The interior saw improvements in material quality, offering a slightly above-average feel for the compact car class. The Elantra's cabin, though featuring some hard plastics, was loaded with advanced tech, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line was equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 290 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 311 pound-feet of torque from 1,650 to 4,000 rpm. This power was managed by an eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters, rev-matching, and a launch control system. The Sonata N Line offered multiple driving modes, including Normal, Sport, Sport+, and Custom, and featured an Active Sound Design engine note enhancement system. The sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and improved steering made it a joy to drive on mountain roads, with minimal understeer and excellent handling. Fuel efficiency was rated at 8.8 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, though real-world testing averaged 9.9 L/100 km.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra offered multiple powertrain options, including a standard 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. The Elantra Hybrid featured a 1.6-litre Atkinson-cycle engine paired with an electric motor, delivering 139 hp and up to 195 lb-ft of torque. The N Line variant boasted a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine with 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The N Line's sport-tuned suspension, multi-link independent rear suspension, and larger front brake rotors enhanced its driving dynamics. The Elantra N Line offered a fun and engaging driving experience, with excellent fuel economy on long highway runs.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line featured heated front sport seats with Dinamica suede inserts, offering a balance between comfort and lateral support. The front passenger seat had a manual height adjuster, while rear-seat passengers enjoyed air conditioning vents and a USB port. The Sonata's trunk volume measured 453 litres, with a 60/40-split folding rear seat for added utility. The hands-free trunk release feature was convenient, though the lack of an interior handle could be inconvenient.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra was designed for ease of use, with clear instrumentation and controls. Its compact size made it easy to navigate tight spaces, and the interior offered excellent visibility. The Elantra's rear seat accommodated three children comfortably, though taller adults might find headroom limited due to the sloped roof. Cargo space was 402 litres, with a narrow trunk opening. The power tilt-and-slide moonroof had a noticeable droning noise when fully open, and the lack of rear USB ports and air conditioning vents was a minor inconvenience.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line came with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Standard features included navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and a Bose premium sound system. The infotainment system supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth, though it lacked a WiFi hotspot. The absence of a tuning knob and occasional touch-sensing issues were minor drawbacks.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra offered impressive technology for its price. The base Essential trim featured an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while higher trims added a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and a Bose audio system. The N Line trim tested had the 8-inch display and six-speaker setup, with seamless Apple CarPlay integration. The audio system was adequate, though not as refined as the Bose systems in other Hyundai models.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line was equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot warning. The N Line also featured a Rear Occupant Alert system and Safe Exit Warning. The standard Sonata received high safety ratings, though the N Line had not been independently tested by the NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra offered a value-focused approach to safety, with automatic emergency braking standard across all trims. Other driver-assist features were optional on the Essential trim and standard on higher trims. The Elantra received five stars from the NHTSA for overall crash protection and top "Good" ratings from the IIHS in all crash tests. However, lower trims with halogen headlights received a "Marginal" rating.