2022 BMW 3 Series vs 2023 Hyundai Elantra

The 2022 BMW 3 Series offered a range of models, from the 330i to the high-performance M3 Competition, with prices starting at $44,990 and reaching up to $93,500, excluding destination charges. Each variant featured distinct powertrains, with the 330i and 330e equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the M340i boasted a turbocharged six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology. The M340i xDrive, tested in Barbera Red with Cognac SensaTec upholstery, included options like the Advanced Driver Assistance package and Adaptive M Suspension, bringing the price to nearly $80,000. The M340i's exterior featured exclusive design elements, including 19-inch wheels, enhancing its sporty appeal. Inside, the SensaTec upholstery and dashboard wrap provided a sophisticated look, with quality materials and a focus on driving enjoyment.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra catered to a wide audience with trims ranging from the affordable Essential to the upscale Luxury. Prices spanned from $20,449 to $39,299, excluding destination charges. The Elantra Hybrid, available on the Luxury trim, offered impressive fuel efficiency. The sporty Elantra N Line Ultimate and performance-focused Elantra N added excitement to the lineup. The Elantra Luxury, tested with light grey leather and high-tech displays, provided a stylish and comfortable interior, though it lacked rear air conditioning vents and USB ports. The exterior design was polarizing, but the interior impressed with its originality and ambient lighting, despite some hard plastic elements.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine with 382 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It achieved 9.4 L/100 km during testing, slightly above the official rating. The M340i accelerated to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds, offering thrilling performance with precise handling and a responsive steering system. The M Sport suspension and brakes contributed to its dynamic driving experience, making it a standout in the sports sedan category.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra Luxury, with its 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, was not designed for speed but delivered a peppy performance. The CVT/IVT transmission was among the best in its class, and the Elantra achieved 7.1 L/100 km during testing. While not as sporty as the Elantra N Line or N, the Luxury model offered a comfortable and composed ride, with 17-inch alloy wheels and a well-tuned suspension enhancing its handling. The steering lacked sharpness, but the overall driving dynamics were surprisingly satisfying.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series provided a balance of sportiness and practicality. The M340i featured power-adjustable front sport seats and a perfect driving position. Rear passengers enjoyed adequate legroom, though the centre seat was less practical. The 481-litre trunk and 40/20/40-split folding rear seats added utility. Standard features included a three-zone climate control system and heated front seats, though ventilated seats were unavailable.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra offered practicality without sacrificing style. The test vehicle featured keyless entry and a comfortable leather-wrapped driver's seat. Rear-seat comfort was less impressive due to a reclined backrest and lack of air vents. The trunk provided 402 litres of cargo space, with a 60/40-split folding back seat for added versatility. The Elantra's interior was well-equipped, though some features like power adjustments were reserved for higher trims.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series came with the optional Digital Cockpit Professional, featuring a 12.3-inch digital panel and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. The iDrive 7.0 system was intuitive, offering multiple control options, including voice recognition. Standard tech included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker sound system, with an optional Harman Kardon upgrade. The Advanced Driver Assistance Package added features like a surround-view camera and autonomous parking.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra expanded its tech offerings with 10.25-inch digital displays available on higher trims. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and a wireless charging pad. The voice recognition system was mostly effective, though it struggled with some commands. The Elantra Luxury included a Bose audio system, though it lacked the quality of competitors. Digital Key technology allowed smartphone access, enhancing convenience.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series offered a basic safety package with features like forward-collision warning and lane-departure warning. The Traffic Jam Assistant and Emergency Stop Assistant were available for enhanced safety. The 3 Series earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, ensuring strong crash protection.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra excelled in safety with a comprehensive package, including automatic high beams, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Elantra Luxury added features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The Elantra received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with strong performance in crash tests.