2022 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2023 Hyundai Elantra

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 continued to offer both sedan and hatchback body styles, with a variety of engine and powertrain configurations. It was available in three trim levels, with options for front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). Canadian buyers had the unique option of a six-speed manual transmission in both sedan and hatch configurations. Prices ranged from $21,400 to $31,000, excluding engine upgrades and a $1,750 destination charge. The top-of-the-line hatchback with a turbo engine and Polymetal Gray Metallic paint was priced at $38,981 in Canada, including the destination charge. The Mazda3's design was not universally appealing, with its deeply sculpted flanks and hatchback design, but it had a certain artistry that some appreciated. The interior was refined, with sophisticated materials and polished metallic finishes, offering an upscale driving experience. The Mazda3 was seen as a cost-effective alternative to entry-level luxury cars, delivering more value except for perceived cachet.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra offered a diverse range of options, catering to various preferences. The base Elantra Essential was priced affordably, while the Preferred and Luxury trims provided more upscale features. The Elantra Hybrid, available as a $2,500 option on the Luxury trim, boasted impressive fuel efficiency. The sporty Elantra N Line Ultimate and the performance-tuned Elantra N catered to driving enthusiasts. Prices ranged from $20,449 to $39,299, excluding a $1,775 destination charge. The Elantra's exterior design was somewhat controversial, but the interior was well-received, featuring light grey leather seats, ambient lighting, and high-tech displays. The cabin was spacious and comfortable, though the hard plastic on the upper door panels was a minor drawback. Overall, the Elantra Luxury's interior was anything but entry-level, offering a stylish and comfortable environment.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a range of engine options, starting with the GX sedan's 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. While not particularly fast, it excelled in fuel economy, consuming 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. Most buyers opted for the non-turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. This engine offered a balance of power and efficiency, with fuel consumption ranging from 7.8 to 8.6 L/100 km, depending on the trim and powertrain. The turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, paired with a six-speed automatic and AWD, provided 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular gas, or 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft on premium fuel. However, real-world fuel efficiency was lower than advertised, averaging 10.2 L/100 km. Despite this, the Mazda3 Turbo was a joy to drive, with smooth power delivery, nimble handling, and excellent balance. The brakes, however, showed signs of fade during spirited driving, suggesting a need for an upgrade.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra Luxury featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. While not particularly powerful, the Elantra's driving dynamics were surprisingly engaging. The CVT/IVT transmission was one of the best in its class, and the Elantra achieved an average fuel economy of 7.1 L/100 km during testing, close to the official rating of 6.7 L/100 km. The Elantra Luxury offered a compliant ride, with well-calibrated brakes and suitable steering effort. On the highway, it was remarkably quiet, and during spirited driving, it displayed consistent handling qualities. The suspension provided a flat cornering attitude, and the car remained stable over rough roads. However, the steering lacked sharpness, and the brakes showed minor shuddering under heavy use. Overall, the Elantra Luxury's driving dynamics exceeded expectations, offering a pleasant surprise.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 had a low-slung design, making entry and exit somewhat challenging. Once inside, the front seats provided a snug yet comfortable fit, with excellent thigh and side bolster support. The driver-focused interior featured an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated front seats as standard in Canada. The leather upholstery in the test vehicle added a touch of luxury. While the front seats were comfortable, the rear seats offered limited legroom, especially for taller passengers. Storage space was adequate, with large door bins, a big glove compartment, and a centre console bin. The hatchback offered 569 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,334 litres with the rear seats folded. The sedan's trunk accommodated 374 litres of cargo.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra prioritized practicality without sacrificing style. It offered a spacious interior, accommodating a family of four comfortably. The test vehicle featured proximity-sensing keyless entry, making access convenient. The leather-wrapped driver's seat was comfortable, with manual adjustments in the Canadian Luxury model. The Elantra Luxury included dual-zone automatic climate control and heated front seats. However, rear-seat occupants might find the seating position too reclined, and the lack of rear air conditioning vents and USB ports was a drawback. The trunk provided 402 litres of cargo space, with a hands-free trunk release feature available on some models. The 60/40-split folding back seat added versatility for larger loads.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system, with an 8.8-inch display integrated into the dashboard. While Mazda's approach aimed to reduce distractions, the lack of a physical tuning function and a voice recognition system that required specific commands were drawbacks. The system's shortcomings could be mitigated by using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Mazda Connected Services, complimentary for two years, offered remote access to vehicle functions via a smartphone app. An eight-speaker audio system was standard, with a 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint surround-sound system available on higher trims. The Active Driving Display projected data onto the windshield, enhancing safety.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra expanded the availability of its 10.25-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment displays. These screens, available on various trims, elevated the Elantra's appeal. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and a navigation system. However, only Bluetooth supported a wireless connection, requiring a USB connection for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The voice recognition system performed well in most tests, though it struggled with some commands. The Elantra Luxury featured a Bose premium audio system, though its sound quality fell short compared to rivals. Digital Key technology allowed a compatible smartphone to serve as the vehicle's key.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 excelled in safety, with faultless crash-test ratings. However, in Canada, most safety features were not standard. Standard features included blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and other advanced features were optional. The GT trim offered additional safety features, such as adaptive front headlights and a surround-view camera system. The Mazda3 received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, earning a five-star rating and a Top Safety Pick+ designation.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra offered a comprehensive package of standard safety features, including automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Elantra Luxury added features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and Highway Driving Assist. The driving assist systems performed smoothly and reliably during testing, instilling confidence in the technology. The Elantra received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four stars in frontal crash protection.