I drove the Hyundai Elantra N and Mazda 3 for a week — here's the sub-$40K sedan I'd spend my own money on
After driving the 2026 Mazda 3 and 2026 Hyundai Elantra N for a week each, there's one compact sedan under $40,000 that I'd buy with my own money.
In a week-long test of the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N and Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus, both compact sedans offered practicality and affordability at a sub-$40,000 price point. The Hyundai Elantra N showcased a bold, sporty design with aggressive lines and aerodynamic features, while the Mazda 3 embraced an upscale, minimalist aesthetic with refined curves and an upscale silhouette.
Both vehicles delivered comparable fuel economy, with the Mazda 3 edging out by a slight margin. In terms of driving performance, the Mazda 3 offered a more enjoyable ride with its refined handling and smooth acceleration, while the Hyundai Elantra N provided a thrilling, sportier experience. Ultimately, the Mazda 3 emerged as the winner, offering a balance of style, performance, and long-term cost savings that made it the best value for a sub-$40,000 sedan.
Written by urgent.news from Tom's Guide's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
