2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2023 Mazda MAZDA3

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was a versatile offering, available in coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon body styles, a variety unmatched by most competitors. The E-Class sedans, designated as E350, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the E450 variants boasted a turbo 3.0-litre inline-six with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology. In Canada, the E-Class came standard with 4Matic all-wheel drive. The AMG-tuned E-Class models, like the AMG E53, offered a more powerful engine and a luxurious experience, albeit at a high price point. The AMG E53 Cabriolet, with its matte-finish paint, premium leather, and carbon fibre trim, was a testament to luxury, though its cost-effectiveness was questionable. The design purity of modern Mercedes vehicles was evident, with the AMG styling and convertible top adding to its allure. Inside, the high-end spec featured digital displays, Burmester speaker grilles, and supple leather, exuding luxury.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3, with its rakish headlights and large grille, was available in sedan and hatchback body styles. The sedan had conventional proportions, while the hatchback boasted a daring, futuristic design. The clean, futuristic theme extended into the cabin, where the infotainment system rose organically from the dash. The Mazda3's conventional shifter design and easy-to-use climate controls were appreciated. In Canada, the Mazda3 offered various trim levels, including the GX, GS, GT, and GT Turbo, with options for manual or automatic transmission and front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Standard features included 16-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, and an 8.8-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GT Turbo trim, with its more powerful engine, was the top choice for 2023.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 featured a 3.0-litre turbo inline-6 engine with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, producing 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided robust throttle response across a wide rev range, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 4.6 seconds. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system ensured power was effectively delivered to the pavement. The E53 Cabriolet's AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system enhanced its driving dynamics. The car's dual personality allowed it to be a quiet cruiser or a spirited performer, with AMG Dynamic Select driving modes altering its character. Despite some cowl shake, the E53 Cabriolet felt solid and sure-footed on twisty roads. Its three-season suitability was highlighted by features like heated wiper blades and a quick-operating convertible top.

The 2023 Mazda3 offered a base Skyactiv-G 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. The optional 2.5-litre inline-four engine produced 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, with AWD available. 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 fuel. The automatic transmission and i-Activ AWD were standard with this engine. The turbo engine's sound and the Mazda3's driving experience were engaging, with well-weighted steering and a responsive transmission. Sport mode enhanced the driving dynamics, with heavier steering feedback and a sporty brake feel. The Mazda3's handling was precise and refined, offering agility and comfort. The tap-shift function mirrored race-car sequential shifters, showcasing Mazda's performance focus.

The Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, with comfortable seating for adults in both the front and rear. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence with the top down, while heated seats and a heated steering wheel were standard. The test car featured rapid-heating front seats, heated armrests, and the Airscarf neck-warming system. Sun-reflective leather and ventilated front seats were available for hot weather. The triple-layer acoustic soft top kept the cabin cool and quiet. Multi-contour front seats with massage and an Air Balance interior fragrance system enhanced long-drive comfort. The trunk offered 360 litres of cargo space with the top up, but this was halved with the top down.

The Mazda3 sedan provided 374 litres of cargo space, while the hatchback offered 569 litres. However, rear seat legroom was limited, especially with taller adults in the front seats. The sloping roofline reduced headroom in both body styles, making the rear seats suitable for occasional use. The front seating area featured a decently sized centre console compartment, though the lid's design was frustrating. The Mazda3's ergonomics and cupholders were user-friendly.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system, renowned for its digital instrumentation and user experience. Two 12.3-inch screens formed the foundation of MBUX, offering high-resolution displays. Interaction options included the touchscreen, centre console controls, digital voice assistant, and steering wheel touchpad buttons. MBUX included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi service, and an augmented reality video overlay for navigation. A head-up display and a Burmester surround-sound audio system were available. Challenges included navigating the menu structure and accidental activation of the digital assistant.

The 2023 Mazda3 came with an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated via a centre console dial. The non-touchscreen interface was a weak point, with clumsy menu navigation and a steep learning curve. The system's interaction with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was confusing, with the Home button not functioning as expected. Standard features included two USB ports, HD radio, Bluetooth, and voice control. Our test model had navigation, satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Bose stereo system, which offered great sound and aesthetics.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Cabriolet featured pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Mercedes Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound were standard, preparing the cabin and occupants for a collision and protecting hearing. Active Parking Assist and a surround-view camera system aided parking. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, Active Steering Assist, and other advanced features. Our test car's package impressed with its adaptive cruise control and lane-change functionality.

The 2023 Mazda3's standard safety equipment included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The GS trim added features like forward automatic emergency braking, automatic cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The GT grade included adaptive headlights, traffic-sign recognition, and a 360-degree parking camera system. The traffic-sign recognition feature was helpful, and the side mirrors tilted down in reverse. The Mazda3 hatchback's massive C-pillar created a significant blind spot, posing a safety risk. The infotainment system's layout also presented a distraction. The Mazda3 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA.