Head to Head

One look at the current roster and one can safely say that the compact sedan is all grown up. With its combination of sleek looks, the latest tech and practicality, the modern compact is anything but small.

For this episode of head to head, we pick two examples of how far this segment has gone, namely with the Hyundai Elantra and Mazda 3. Both these compacts burst upon scene upon launch and have been a staple for their respective manufacturers since. Of course, there is more to these cars that good sales figures. We sort out their differences under the skin to help you choose your next compact.

The Hyundai Elantra is available with two engines. First is a 1.6 liter Gamma engine with 128 PS and 154 Nm of torque. Opt for the top of the line model and it gets a 2.0 liter Nu engine, bumping power up to 152 PS and 192 Nm of torque. Like the Elantra, the Mazda 3 also has two engine options. Its range starts with the 1.5 liter, four cylinder engine with SkyActiv-G technology that puts out 112 PS and 144 Nm of torque. The top spec engine is a 2.0 liter, four cylinder also boasting SkyActiv-G technology. Power for the 2.0 liter engine is rated at 155 PS and 200 Nm of torque.

A 6-speed automatic is standard on all Mazda 3 models while the Hyundai Elantra is available with a 6-speed manual in the entry-level model. The six speed automatic transmission is standard on the mid and top-spec variants. Both ride on MacPhereson struts in front but differ at the rear. The rear suspension of the Mazda 3 is a Multi-link beam axle while the Elantra gets a coupled torsion beam axle setup.

Stepping inside Elantra, it follows in the footsteps of its bigger sibling, the Sonata. It too has Hyundai's T-Shaped Fascia for its dashboard which is tilted towards the driver for a driver-centric layout. All Elantra variants get fabric trimmed seats, as well as soft touch materials for its dash. Manual air-conditioning is standard on the entry-level and mid-range model while the top of the line variant gets automatic climate control and rear vents. Push-button start is standard in the range topper while the rest use a key.

Moving to the Mazda 3, it gets cues from the company's roadster, the MX-5. Like the roadster, it gets swooping, wraparound dashboard with a sporty theme. In the base models, the seats are trimmed in fabric while the mid-level model gets black leather. The top-spec Mazda 3 gets while leather with contrast stitching. Other sporting elements include a thick, leather trimmed steering wheel and faux carbon-fiber trim on all variants. Automatic climate control and a push-button starter is also standard on all models.

For audio and infotainment systems, all Mazda 3 variants come with a 7-inch monitor. This system can handle MP3, Aux-in, USB, CD and Bluetooth. It can be controlled via touch or through the scroll wheel on the center console. Apart from entertainment functions, the screen also displays information such as fuel economy, average speed and more. In the 2.0 liter models, it also comes with a heads-up display to show speed and other related info. Sound is then channeled through six speakers but go for the 2.0-liter models and you get the nine speaker BOSE sound system.

For the Hyundai Elantra, it has three audio systems available. The base model gets a 2-DIN stereo with CD player while moving up the range upgrades that stereo to accommodate USB and Aux-in features. Only the top-level model gets a 5" Monitor with, CD, USB and Aux-in. It gets four speakers in the base and mid-spec trims while the 2.0-liter variants come standard with six.

The Mazda 3's exterior follows the automaker's Kodo design language. At the front, it features large headlights plus Mazda's current signature grill. The lower half of the bumper is given an aggressive look with sharp lines and defined angles. On to the side, the window line creases upwards all the way to the tail end of the sedan. At the back, it gets wraparound taillights that resemble those from the larger Mazda 6. Base ride on 16-inch wheels while the mid to top of the line models get 18-inch wheels.

The Elantra meanwhile features Hyundai's current  design language called Fluidic Sculpture 2.0. This design focuses on aerodynamics with its swooping lines and upswept styling elements. The signature hexagonal grill defines its front fascia and defined edges. Aiding in aerodynamics are the C-Shaped intakes that lets air flow through to the wheels. The side is defined by two character lines, one near the window and the other by the bottom of the doors. At the rear, it retains the signature long, wraparound taillights as seen in its predecessor. The entry-level Elantra rides on 15-in alloys and the mid-spec model is one 16-inch alloys. Top-spec Elantras get 17-inch alloy wheels.

Taking at look at their safety features, the Mazda 3 has dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, Dynamic Stability Control, Traction Control, rear parking sensors and rear parking camera standard across the range. In the Elantra, both mid-range and top of the line models get dual airbags along with ABS with EBD. The 2.0-liter model adds the Rear Park Assist System and rain sensors.

There are three variants available for the Hyundai Elantra, namely the 1.6 GL 6M/T, 1.6 GL 6A/T and 2.0 GLS 6AT. In the Mazda, there are 5 variants to choose from starting with the SkyActiv V sedan, SkyActiv V hatch, SkyActiv R sedan, SkyActiv R hatch and Speed hatch. For the Elantra, prices start at Php 898,000 to Php 1,158,000. As for the Mazda 3, it ranges from Php 975,000 to Php 1,308,000.