2022 Audi A4 vs 2023 Mazda MAZDA3

The 2022 Audi A4 presented a clean and conservative design, serving as an ideal canvas for its striking Tango Red paint and Black Edition package. The classic five-arm rotor-design wheels added a touch of automotive design perfection. Inside, the A4 maintained aesthetic restraint with black interiors complemented by aluminum trim and metallic accents. The 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit and ambient lighting enhanced the high-quality feel, though the tablet-style touchscreen seemed out of place.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 showcased a bold design with rakish headlights and a large grille. The hatchback version stood out with its futuristic curves. Inside, the cabin continued the clean, futuristic theme with an infotainment system that rose organically from the dash. The conventional shifter and climate controls were user-friendly, while the steering wheel, though cluttered with controls, maintained elegance. The Mazda3's design was daring and forward-thinking, especially in the hatchback form.

The 2022 Audi A4 offered two engine options. The 40 TFSI model featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with 201 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, achieving 8.2 L/100 km in combined driving. The 45 TFSI model, tested here, delivered 261 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds with a fuel economy of 8.8 L/100 km. The A4's Quattro Ultra AWD system provided a refined driving experience, with the S-line package enhancing its sporty feel. Despite its power, the A4 felt less fast than expected, possibly due to a recent comparison with a more powerful electric vehicle.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a base 2.0-litre engine with 155 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque. The 2.5-litre engine, standard on the GT, produced 191 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. Our test model featured the turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, delivering 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular fuel, or 250 hp and 320 lb-ft with premium. The Mazda3 excelled in handling, with well-weighted steering and a responsive transmission. Sport mode enhanced the driving experience, making the Mazda3 agile and balanced, though off-the-line acceleration was moderate.

The 2022 Audi A4, sitting low to the ground, was challenging to enter and exit. The front seats offered exceptional comfort with power adjustments and a thigh-support cushion. The rear seats, though supportive, lacked legroom and were best for short trips. Interior storage was limited, with the centre console housing the wireless charging pad. The A4's 340-litre cargo space was well-finished, with enclosed hinges and storage nets.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 sedan provided 374 litres of cargo space, while the hatchback offered 569 litres. Rear seating was cramped, with limited legroom and headroom due to the sloping roofline. The front seating area was more accommodating, with a decent centre console and ergonomic design. However, the console lid was frustrating to use, and the overall space was more suited for front-seat passengers.

The 2022 Audi A4 featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with MIB3 technology, supporting swipe and scroll functions. It included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system. The MMI was intuitive, with separate climate controls and useful voice recognition, though the head-up display was hard to see with polarized sunglasses.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 came with an 8.8-inch display operated via a centre console dial. The system was not user-friendly, with a steep learning curve and confusing menu navigation. Standard features included two USB ports, Bluetooth, and voice control, with upgrades like navigation and a 12-speaker Bose stereo. The Bose system offered great sound, but the infotainment system's design was a significant drawback.

The 2022 Audi A4 offered comprehensive safety features, including Audi Pre Sense, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera. It received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The driver assistance tech was effective, though the adaptive cruise control had a delayed reaction in some situations.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard. The GS trim added features like automatic emergency braking and lane-departure warning. The GT trim offered adaptive headlights and a 360-degree camera. However, the large C-pillar created a significant blind spot, and the infotainment system's layout posed a safety concern. The Mazda3 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA.