2023 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2022 Acura TLX

The 2022 Acura TLX presented itself as a luxury sedan with a wide and long stance, reminiscent of a larger class vehicle. Its design was bold, with thin headlights and a five-sided grille, complemented by a front bumper with V-shaped curves and large tailpipes. The TLX was notably wider than its competitors, such as the BMW 3 Series, and its length was accentuated by a low-slung hood. The Type S variant added unique features like the Tiger Eye Pearl paint and 20-inch Y-spoke alloy wheels, enhancing its sporty appearance. Inside, the TLX was snug but well-detailed, with a Scandinavian-inspired design in upper trims and daring colour options.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a sleek and modern design, particularly in its hatchback form, which was praised for its clean and futuristic lines. The sedan version maintained more conventional proportions. Inside, the Mazda3 continued the theme of simplicity and elegance, with an infotainment system that rose organically from the dash. The cabin featured a conventional shifter and easy-to-use climate controls, though the rear seating area was cramped. The Mazda3's design was forward-thinking, though it came with some practical limitations, particularly in rear seat space.

The 2022 Acura TLX was equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. In Canada, the TLX came standard with Super Handling-All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which enhanced stability and handling precision. The Type S variant featured a 3.0-litre turbo V6 engine, delivering 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, making it a formidable track performer. The TLX's double-wishbone front suspension and adaptive dampers contributed to its balanced and predictable handling, though the exhaust note was considered subdued.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a range of engines, starting with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower. The 2.5-litre engine, available on higher trims, delivered 191 horsepower. The standout was the turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, which produced 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque on regular fuel, or 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet with premium fuel. The Mazda3's driving experience was engaging, with well-weighted steering and impressive handling. The turbo engine provided a satisfying sound, and the car's agility and balance were highlights, though off-the-line acceleration was moderate.

Inside the 2022 Acura TLX, space was limited despite its large exterior. The back seat offered decent headroom but lacked legroom, while the front seats were comfortable with adjustable features. The infotainment system used a unique touchpad interface, which required acclimation. Trunk space was modest at 382 litres, and the overall interior design was well-executed but not spacious.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 sedan provided 374 litres of cargo space, while the hatchback offered 569 litres. However, rear seat legroom was minimal, and the sloping roofline reduced headroom. The front seating area was more accommodating, with a practical centre console and cupholders. The Mazda3's interior was designed for front-seat use, with the rear seats being less practical for regular use.

The 2022 Acura TLX featured a simple and quick infotainment interface, though the small typefaces were a drawback. The head-up display was available only on the Platinum Elite trim. The ELS Studio premium audio system was a highlight, and standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of driver assistance features. Higher trims offered advanced climate control linked to navigation and "Jewel Eye" LED headlights.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 came with an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated via a dial, which was a weak point due to its clumsy menu navigation. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose premium stereo system in higher trims. The infotainment system's learning curve was steep, and its operation was not intuitive, which could be distracting.

The 2022 Acura TLX was rated a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS and received a five-star overall score from the NHTSA. It featured standard knee airbags, lane-keep assist, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3's standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, with additional features available on higher trims. The GT grade offered adaptive headlights and a 360-degree parking camera system. The Mazda3 was rated a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS and received five stars in front crash tests and rollover tests from the NHTSA. However, the large C-pillar created a significant blind spot, and the infotainment system's design posed a safety concern.