2022 Hyundai Elantra vs 2023 Honda Accord

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra underwent a significant transformation with its seventh-generation redesign, shedding its previous unremarkable appearance for a bold and striking new look. This redesign introduced a longer wheelbase, wider stance, and lower roofline, giving the Elantra a dramatic four-door-coupe silhouette. The exterior styling, while reminiscent of the midsize Sonata sedan, carved out its own unique identity with distinctive creases and folds that formed a "Z" shape on the doors. Inside, the Elantra's interior saw improvements in material quality, offering a slightly above-average experience for the compact car class, despite some hard plastics. The Elantra was available in four trim levels in Canada, with the N Line trim adding sporty styling elements like N Line design front and rear fascias, chrome twin-tip exhaust, and 18-inch alloy wheels.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda Accord adopted a more conservative and modern appearance, moving away from the shiny chrome and exuberant character of its predecessor. The Accord EX, priced at $37,000 in Canada, featured a dark grille, LED headlights, and a Canyon River Blue paint that garnered compliments. Inside, the Accord EX offered durable cloth seats with contrast stitching and stylish metal mesh dashboard trim. The digital instrumentation paired with a touchscreen infotainment system, and the switchgear reflected attention to detail and refinement. However, the Accord's design leaned towards a more understated and technical look, which some might find less appealing compared to the previous model's design.

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

The 2023 Honda Accord EX was equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 192 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), provided adequate power for the Accord's 1,493-kilogram weight. The Accord's MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension, along with a dual-pinion, variable-ratio steering system, contributed to its responsive handling. While the CVT's Sport drive mode was less satisfying, the Accord's ride and handling were commendable, offering a nimble and responsive driving experience. However, the Michelin Energy tires on the Accord EX were a weak link, lacking grip during spirited driving.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra excelled in practicality, with its compact size making it easy to navigate tight spaces. The interior offered clear instrumentation and controls, along with ample storage options. While the N Line's low seating position required extra effort to enter and exit, the Elantra provided excellent outward visibility. The rear seat accommodated three children comfortably, though taller adults might find the sloped roof limiting headroom. The Elantra's trunk offered 402 litres of cargo space, sufficient for a weekend's worth of luggage, though the narrow trunk opening posed a challenge for accessing the rear area. The power tilt-and-slide moonroof produced a noticeable droning noise when fully open, and the lack of rear USB ports and air conditioning vents were minor inconveniences.

The 2023 Honda Accord EX came standard with heated exterior mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats. However, it lacked a power-adjustable front passenger seat, rear air conditioning vents, and rear USB charging ports. The Accord's back seat provided excellent leg support and ample legroom, making it comfortable for rear-seat passengers. The 473-litre trunk offered generous storage space, with a handle for easy closing. While the Accord's interior was practical, the hard plastic lining the sides of the centre console proved uncomfortable for some drivers.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra impressed with its technology offerings, including an 8-inch display audio touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, Bluetooth, and dual USB ports on the base Essential trim. Higher trims, such as the Ultimate and N Line, featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, an eight-speaker Bose premium audio system, and a fully digital instrument cluster. The N Line's infotainment system was easy to pair with smartphones, though the six-speaker audio system was only adequate.

The 2023 Honda Accord EX featured a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The system included Bluetooth connectivity, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and HondaLink connected services. While the Accord lacked SiriusXM satellite radio, it offered two USB-C ports and an eight-speaker audio system. The physical controls for the stereo were a welcome touch, though the function control knob was misleading. Overall, the Accord's tech offerings were basic but functional.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra prioritized safety with a suite of driver-assist technologies, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assistance, and blind-spot warning. Higher trims offered features like adaptive cruise control and Highway Drive Assist. The Elantra received a five-star overall crash protection rating from the NHTSA and top "Good" ratings from the IIHS.

The 2023 Honda Accord came equipped with Honda Sensing, a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems. This included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Accord's safety features performed with accuracy and refinement, earning it a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.