2021 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2022 Hyundai Sonata

Mazdas are fun. All of them. Even the SUVs. But until recently, they weren’t particularly fast. The joy in driving a Mazda derived from the expertly tuned ride and handling qualities that made piloting the automaker’s products a sheer delight. And then Mazda started turbocharging cars and SUVs equipped with its 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine. Now, the 2021 Mazda3 2.5 Turbo arrives, one of the last members of Mazda’s fleet to add forced induction for boosted power and performance. The result, as you might guess, is absolutely delightful.

Despite having the onerous task of competing against segment mainstays like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord—and combating waning consumer interest in midsize sedans—the Hyundai Sonata continues to play to its strengths. By offering tremendous value, exceptional quality, and a surprisingly sporty N Line variant, the Sonata can more than hold its own against the segment favourites.