2022 Hyundai Elantra vs 2023 BMW 3 Series

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra underwent a significant transformation from its previous iterations, shedding its unremarkable appearance for a more striking and modern design. The seventh-generation model, introduced in 2021, featured a longer wheelbase, wider stance, and lower roofline, creating a dramatic four-door-coupe silhouette. This redesign gave the Elantra a unique personality, distinct from its midsize Sonata sibling, with its low-slung look and distinctive "Z" shape creases on the doors. Inside, the Elantra's interior saw improvements in material quality and design, offering a slightly above-average experience for the compact car class, despite some hard plastics. The 2022 Elantra was available in four trim levels in Canada, with the N Line trim adding sporty styling elements and a more engaging driving experience.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series, a staple of the Bavarian brand since 1975, received a mid-cycle refresh for the model year. While the exterior design changes were subtle, they enhanced the car's sporty appeal, maintaining the classic narrow kidney grille and introducing redesigned full-LED headlights. The 3 Series' interior, however, saw significant updates with the introduction of BMW iDrive 8, featuring a 27.2-inch curved display that combined a driver information display and a touchscreen. This driver-centric cockpit offered a minimalist approach with fewer buttons, enhancing the overall driving experience. The 3 Series lineup included the petrol-powered 330i and M340i, as well as the plug-in hybrid 330e, providing a range of options for different driving preferences.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra offered a variety of powertrain options, catering to different driving needs. The Essential, Preferred, and Ultimate trims came with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with either a six-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Elantra Hybrid featured a 1.6-litre Atkinson-cycle engine combined with an electric motor, delivering 139 hp and up to 195 lb-ft of torque, with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The N Line trim, aimed at driving enthusiasts, boasted a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine with 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed DCT. The N Line's sport-tuned suspension and multi-link independent rear suspension enhanced its handling dynamics, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a more engaging drive.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series retained its powertrains from previous model years, offering a twin-turbo 2.0-litre engine for the 330i and 330e, and a twin-turbo 3.0-litre inline-six for the M340i. The 330i produced 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds. The 330e, with its electric motor assist, delivered a combined output of 288 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, offering up to 35 kilometres of electric-only range. The M340i, with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, provided 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, reaching 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. The 3 Series offered a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, with the 330i xDrive achieving a combined fuel economy of 8.6 L/100 km, while the 330e and M340i offered slightly different ratings based on their configurations.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra was designed with practicality in mind, offering a compact size that made it easy to navigate tight spaces. Its interior provided clear instrumentation and controls, along with ample storage options. The Elantra's seats were comfortable, though the N Line's low seating position required extra effort to get in and out. Despite its compact size, the Elantra offered good visibility and enough space for small families, with a rear seat that could accommodate three children comfortably. The trunk provided 402 litres of cargo space, though the sloping roofline created a narrow trunk opening. Some drawbacks included a droning noise from the moonroof when fully open and a lack of USB ports and rear air conditioning vents.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series offered a compact yet comfortable interior, with ample headroom and legroom for average-sized adults. The SensaTec faux leather upholstery and power-adjustable front sport seats provided good support, though the seat bottom cushion was on the stiff side. The 3 Series featured a well-designed cabin with intuitive ergonomics, including the iconic iDrive controller knob. Cargo space was 481 litres, with rear seats that folded down in a 40/20/40 split to accommodate larger items. Standard features included a power moonroof, heated front seats, and remote start, with additional options available for enhanced comfort and convenience.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra impressed with its level of technology, offering an 8-inch display audio touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, Bluetooth, and dual USB ports as standard on the base Essential trim. Higher trims added features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, an eight-speaker Bose audio system, and a fully digital instrument cluster. The N Line trim in Canada came with the Bose system, while the U.S. version had a six-speaker setup. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with seamless smartphone integration, though the audio performance was only adequate.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series featured the advanced BMW iDrive 8 system, with a curved display combining a 12.3-inch driver information display and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The system was intuitive, with customizable widgets and voice-activated controls via the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. Standard tech features included USB-C ports, enhanced Bluetooth, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, and a 10-speaker HiFi audio system. Optional upgrades included wireless device charging, a premium Harman Kardon sound system, and a wireless 5G hotspot, providing a comprehensive and modern infotainment experience.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra prioritized safety with a suite of driver-assist technologies. Standard features included automatic emergency braking, while higher trims added forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assistance, lane-departure warning, and more. The Elantra received a five-star overall crash protection rating from the NHTSA and top "Good" ratings from the IIHS in all crash tests, though lower trims with halogen headlights received a "Marginal" rating.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series also emphasized safety, earning a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, LED headlights, and BMW Assist eCall. Additional safety systems were available in packages, such as the Advanced Driver Assistance Package, which included active blind spot detection, lane-departure warning, and more. The 3 Series offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, though the 2022 model's headlights received a "Poor" rating from the IIHS.