2022 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2023 Cadillac CT5

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3, available in both sedan and hatchback styles, offered a range of engine and powertrain configurations. It featured three trim levels with options for front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). Canadian buyers could enjoy a six-speed manual transmission, adding a touch of driving engagement. Prices ranged from $21,400 to $31,000, excluding engine upgrades and destination charges. The top-tier hatchback with a turbo engine and Polymetal Gray Metallic paint cost $38,981 in Canada. The Mazda3's design was polarizing, with deeply sculpted flanks and a hatchback shape that some found unappealing. However, its understated elegance and mature styling were appreciated by those seeking a stealthy, sophisticated vehicle. Inside, the Mazda3 impressed with refined materials and a sophisticated design, offering an upscale driving environment.

In contrast, the 2023 Cadillac CT5-V stood out on Canadian roads, often turning heads with its unique light grey metallic Rift paint and 19-inch aluminum wheels. The CT5-V, positioned between the standard CT5 and the high-performance Blackwing, started at $58,429, with our test car priced at $66,044. Competing with luxury sedans like the Audi A6 and BMW 5 Series in size and power, the CT5-V offered a more affordable alternative. However, its interior quality fell short compared to its German rivals, with a mix of high-quality materials and cheaper details. Despite this, the CT5-V featured ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, and a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a sporty luxury sedan.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a range of engine options, starting with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. While not the fastest, it excelled in fuel economy, consuming 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres. Most buyers opted for the 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, available with FWD or AWD. The turbocharged 2.5-litre engine delivered up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel, but its fuel efficiency was lower than advertised. Despite this, the Mazda3 Turbo was a joy to drive, offering smooth power delivery, nimble handling, and excellent balance. However, the brakes showed signs of fade during spirited driving, suggesting a need for an upgrade.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V featured a twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 engine with 360 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque, outperforming base engines in its class. It accelerated to 100 km/h in about five seconds, though it felt less thrilling than expected. The CT5-V's 10-speed automatic transmission, paired with an electronic limited-slip differential, offered a smooth driving experience, though manual paddle shifters were sometimes necessary. The car's adaptive damping suspension and Brembo brakes provided excellent control and stopping power. However, the CT5-V was not a quiet car, with noticeable road noise and suspension racket. Despite these drawbacks, it delivered enjoyable driving dynamics, especially in My Mode, where it balanced performance and comfort.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3's low seating position made entry and exit challenging, but once inside, the driver-focused interior offered a snug yet comfortable fit. The front seats were power-adjustable and heated, with leather upholstery in higher trims. The back seat was less accommodating, especially for taller passengers, and lacked rear air vents and USB ports. Storage was adequate, with large door bins and a sizable centre console. The hatchback offered 569 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,334 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V, built on the same platform as the smaller CT4, provided a roomier and more comfortable interior. The front seats were 18-way power-adjustable, with optional genuine leather and ventilation. Entry and exit were easy for the front seats but trickier for the rear due to the door frame design. The rear seat offered good thigh support and knee clearance, though the plastic seatback panels detracted from the premium feel. The CT5-V's trunk was small, with just 337 litres of cargo space, but it included hidden storage and a deep well for additional items.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system with an 8.8-inch display, controlled via a centre console dial. While Mazda avoided touchscreens to reduce driver distraction, the system's lack of a physical tuning function and limited voice recognition were drawbacks. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration helped mitigate these issues. Mazda Connected Services offered remote access to vehicle functions for two years, and higher trims included a Bose audio system and head-up display.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V excelled in technology, with a user-friendly Cadillac User Experience (CUE) system. It included a 10-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Bose 15-speaker audio system. The CT5-V offered physical controls for volume and tuning, enhancing usability. While our test car lacked embedded navigation, Apple CarPlay was easy to use. Cadillac's decision to phase out CarPlay and Android Auto in future models was notable. Additional tech options included a head-up display, surround-view camera, and Performance Data Recorder.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 excelled in safety, earning top ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS. Standard features included blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, with additional options like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The driver-assist systems performed reliably, enhancing trust in the technology.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5 came with the Cadillac Smart System, offering basic safety features like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. The CT5-V added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. The optional Super Cruise 1 Package provided hands-free driving assistance on approved highways, though drivers needed to remain attentive. Super Cruise impressed with its automated lane-change function, but occasional issues required manual intervention.