2022 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2023 Chrysler 300

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 maintained its sleek design with no significant changes, continuing to offer both sedan and hatchback body styles. It provided a variety of engine and powertrain configurations, including front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options. Canadian buyers had the unique choice of a six-speed manual transmission in certain trims. The price range for the lineup was between $21,400 and $31,000, excluding additional costs for engine upgrades and a $1,750 destination charge. The top-tier hatchback model, featuring a turbo engine and premium paint, was priced at $38,981 in Canada, including the destination charge. While the Mazda3's design might not appeal to everyone, its artistic flair was undeniable. The car's understated exterior, devoid of flashy spoilers or body kits, exuded a mature and serious vibe. Inside, the Mazda3 boasted refined materials and a sophisticated design, creating an upscale driving environment. It was an attractive option for those seeking value over perceived luxury cachet.

The 2023 Chrysler 300, reminiscent of a Bentley upon its 2005 debut, retained its bold and stately design over the years. Despite its age, the 300's styling remained appealing, with blacked-out appearances and large 20-inch wheels available across all trims. For its final production year, the 300 was offered in Touring, Touring L, 300S, and 300C trims. The Touring and Touring L featured a Pentastar V6 engine with RWD or AWD, while the 300S offered a V8 engine option. The limited-edition 300C, with only 2,000 units, boasted a more powerful V8 engine. Pricing ranged from $48,945 to $72,995, with the 300C positioned at the higher end. Despite its luxury exterior, the interior quality did not match, though the 300C included premium features like carbon-fibre trim and Laguna leather upholstery. The Chrysler 300's design and performance enhancements made it a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of style and power.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a range of engine options, starting with the base 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. While not particularly fast, it excelled in fuel efficiency, consuming 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The more popular choice was the non-turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 186 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. This engine came with a six-speed automatic or manual transmission, with FWD or optional AWD. Fuel consumption varied between 7.8 and 8.6 L/100 km, depending on the configuration. The turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, paired with a six-speed automatic and standard AWD, offered 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular gas, or 250 hp and 320 lb-ft with premium fuel. Despite its advertised efficiency, real-world consumption averaged 10.2 L/100 km. The Mazda3 Turbo provided a thrilling driving experience with its smooth power delivery, nimble handling, and balanced ride. However, the brakes showed signs of fade during intense driving, suggesting a need for an upgrade.

The 2023 Chrysler 300C revived the spirit of the 300 SRT with its 6.4-litre Hemi V8 engine, producing 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. This power was delivered to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission with a Sport mode and paddle shifters. The 300C could accelerate to 100 km/h in approximately 4.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 257 km/h. It featured an adaptive damping suspension, Brembo brakes, and performance tires on exclusive wheels. Driving modes allowed customization of the drivetrain, steering, suspension, and exhaust sound. The 300C's performance was exhilarating, with a Germanic feel reminiscent of older AMG-tuned Mercedes-Benz models. However, the powerful V8 resulted in cabin noise and a fuel consumption rating of 13.1 L/100 km, with real-world figures slightly higher at 13.4 L/100 km.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3, with its low stance, posed challenges for entry and exit, compounded by small door openings. Once inside, the front seats offered a snug yet comfortable fit, with most models featuring an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated front seats. The interior was driver-focused, with user-friendly controls, except for the Mazda Connect infotainment system. The back seat, however, was less accommodating, especially for taller passengers, and lacked rear air conditioning vents and USB ports. Storage was adequate, with large door bins, a big glove compartment, and a centre console bin. The hatchback offered 569 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,334 litres with the rear seats folded, while the sedan's trunk held 374 litres.

The 2023 Chrysler 300, though technically a full-size car, felt spacious only in the front seats. The 300C's front seats featured premium Laguna leather, heating, and ventilation, with adequate power adjustments. The rear seats were less comfortable, with limited legroom and a slouch-inducing backrest angle. Storage was limited, lacking modern smartphone slots or wireless charging. The trunk, accessible via remote keyless entry, offered a generous 461-litre cargo area with enclosed lid hinges.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system with an 8.8-inch display, controlled via a centre console interface. Mazda's non-touchscreen approach aimed to reduce driver distraction, though it lacked a physical tuning function and had a voice recognition system that required specific commands. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration helped mitigate these issues. Mazda Connected Services, complimentary for two years, provided remote access to vehicle functions. An eight-speaker audio system was standard, with a 12-speaker Bose system available. An Active Driving Display projected data onto the windshield, enhancing safety.

The 2023 Chrysler 300 used the previous-generation Uconnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen. While dated, it offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Guardian connected services. The 300C included a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system and an SRT Dashboard for performance settings. The system's graphics were outdated, but it provided essential functions. The lack of a surround-view camera system was a drawback, though front and rear parking sensors were standard on the 300C.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 excelled in safety, with top crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS. In Canada, standard safety features included blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, with additional features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist available as options. The driver-assist systems performed reliably, fostering trust in their functionality.

The 2023 Chrysler 300 offered limited standard safety features, with most advanced systems available only as options. The SafetyTec Plus Group included features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. The lane-keeping assist system was effective without being intrusive. The 300's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a Marginal rating in the IIHS moderate-overlap frontal-impact test and Poor headlight performance.