2021 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2021 Lexus ES

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3, following its 2019 redesign, continued to impress with its dramatic yet sophisticated styling. The sedan version, which was tested, offered a conservative yet elegant appearance, while the hatchback variant, known as the Mazda3 Sport, boasted a more aggressive stance. The 2.5 Turbo model, available in both body styles, featured all-wheel drive and a range of interior options, including luxurious leather finishes. The interior of the Mazda3 Turbo was noted for its high-quality materials and attention to detail, with a focus on the driver-centric design. Despite some use of hard plastics, the overall quality and design aimed to elevate the Mazda3 into the premium segment.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus ES expanded its lineup with the introduction of the ES 250, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive. The ES 350, with its 3.5-litre V6 engine, offered a range of packages, including the sporty F Sport and the luxurious Black Line Edition. The ES 300h hybrid variant provided improved fuel efficiency. The ES's design was characterized by its dramatic grille and sleek, artful detailing. The Black Line Edition, with its unique styling elements, added a touch of exclusivity. Inside, the ES offered a striking black and white interior, with high-quality materials and a focus on comfort and luxury.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 Turbo was powered by a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 250 horsepower with 93-octane fuel and 227 horsepower with 87-octane fuel. The engine was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and Mazda's i-Activ AWD system, enhancing corner-exit capability. The turbocharged powertrain added minimal weight but significantly increased performance, offering a smooth and predictable driving experience. The Mazda3 Turbo featured improved steering feel and response, with stiffer front suspension springs and dampers. Despite its sporty nature, the Mazda3 Turbo maintained a balance between performance and comfort, with an average fuel consumption of 11.5 litres per 100 kilometres during testing.

The 2021 Lexus ES 350 was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The ES 350 offered Normal, Eco, and Sport driving modes, with additional Sport+ and Custom modes available with the adaptive damping suspension. The ES 350 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with a fuel efficiency rating of 9.4 litres per 100 kilometres. The ES 350 Black Line Edition provided a sporty driving experience, with firm ride quality and flat cornering stance. However, it was not intended to be an outright sports sedan, focusing instead on a balance of comfort and performance.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 2.5 Turbo featured a leather-lined interior with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, offering a luxury feel. However, it lacked some premium features, such as power adjustment for the front passenger seat and rear-seat ventilation. The rear seats were cramped, and storage space was adequate but not exceptional. The sedan's trunk offered 374 litres of space, while the hatchback variant provided more utility with 569 litres behind the rear seats and 1,334 litres with them folded down.

The 2021 Lexus ES offered a daring yet functional interior layout, with sport-bolstered front seats featuring 10-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The rear seats provided ample foot and legroom, with rear air conditioning vents and an available power rear window sunshade. The ES's trunk measured 394 litres, with an optional hands-free power trunk for added convenience. The interior was designed for comfort and luxury, with excellent outward visibility and plentiful storage options.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system with an 8.8-inch display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. However, the lack of a touchscreen and poor voice-recognition technology were notable drawbacks. The system was paired with a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system, offering good sound quality. The Premium Package included an Active Driving Display, providing useful information to the driver.

The 2021 Lexus ES offered a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment display, with dynamic voice command technology and separate climate and stereo controls. The system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The ES also featured a 10-speaker premium sound system, with an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson system for enhanced audio quality. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with a focus on minimizing driver distraction.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), designed to support the driver and prevent collisions. The system included adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, an Adaptive Front Lighting System, and a high-definition surround-view camera. The Mazda3 received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, earning a "Top Safety Pick+" designation.

The 2021 Lexus ES featured Lexus Safety System 2.0, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on all but the base trim. The ES received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers.