2022 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class retained its stunning appearance from the previous year, following a complete makeover that was widely praised. Despite the growing popularity of SUVs, the S-Class stood as a testament to the enduring appeal of luxury sedans. Its sleek design, characterized by a long distance between the front axle and dashboard, exuded elegance. The interior was equally impressive, featuring high-quality materials and a sophisticated dashboard with a 12.8-inch touchscreen and a separate 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The S-Class continued to be Mercedes-Benz's flagship sedan, offering a luxurious and meticulously crafted cabin.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 maintained its existing design with no significant changes. Available in both sedan and hatchback styles, it offered a range of engine and powertrain options. The Mazda3's design was not universally appealing, with its deeply sculpted flanks and hatchback shape drawing mixed reactions. However, it exuded a mature and serious aesthetic, avoiding flashy elements. Inside, the Mazda3 featured refined materials and a sophisticated design, creating an upscale atmosphere. While it lacked the perceived cachet of luxury brands, it offered excellent value for money, appealing to those seeking quality without the premium price tag.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was designed for both executive commuting and weekend driving pleasure. The S500 model featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six-cylinder mild-hybrid engine, producing 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, with an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft from the EQ Boost system. The S580 model boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic AWD. Despite their weight, the S-Class models were quick, with the S500 reaching 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and the S580 in 4.4 seconds. Fuel consumption for the S500 was 11.4 L/100 km city/8.0 highway/9.9 combined, while the S580 was rated at 14.3 L/100 km city/9.5 highway/12.2 combined.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a range of engine options, starting with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 155 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque. The more popular choice was the non-turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 186 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, available with AWD, offered 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas, or 250 hp and 320 lb-ft with premium fuel. Fuel consumption varied, with the turbo models averaging 8.8 L/100 km (sedan) or 8.9 L/100 km (hatchback). The Mazda3 was praised for its fun driving experience, smooth ride, and nimble handling, though the brakes showed signs of fade during intense driving.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled as an executive sedan, offering a spacious and luxurious cabin. Second-row passengers enjoyed powered sun blinds and a Panorama Sunroof, while the 510-litre trunk provided ample storage. The cabin featured six USB-C ports and a 115-volt power supply. Front seats were equipped with rapid-heating active multicontour seats, lumbar support, and memory functions. Optional features included ventilated seats, heated armrests, and massaging rear seats. The Executive Rear Seating package, exclusive to the S580, catered to chauffeured passengers with a 43-degree recline and additional controls. The S-Class's soft-close doors added a touch of convenience.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3, while offering a snug and comfortable fit for front passengers, posed challenges with its low seating position and small door openings. The interior was driver-focused, with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated front seats. The back seat offered decent comfort for shorter passengers but lacked rear air conditioning vents and USB ports. Storage space was adequate, with large door bins and a sizable centre console bin. The hatchback provided 569 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,334 litres with the rear seats folded. The sedan offered 374 litres of trunk space.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was equipped with cutting-edge technology, featuring a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen for the MBUX infotainment system. The OLED screen offered superior image quality and energy efficiency. The 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel provided customizable visual themes. Optional features included a 3D instrument cluster and augmented reality navigation. The Burmester 3D Surround sound system delivered high-fidelity audio, with an available 4D system adding headrest speakers. The S-Class also featured EQ Boost and rear-axle steering for enhanced performance and maneuverability.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3's Mazda Connect infotainment system used an 8.8-inch display with Bluetooth, controlled via centre console controls and voice recognition. Mazda's approach aimed to reduce driver distraction, though the lack of a physical tuning function and voice recognition issues were noted. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided alternatives for infotainment. Mazda Connected Services offered remote access to vehicle functions via a smartphone app. The car featured an eight-speaker audio system, with a 12-speaker Bose system available. An Active Driving Display projected data onto the windshield, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class prioritized safety with a comprehensive suite of standard and available features. Magic Vision Control optimized windshield spray, while driver assistance features included adaptive cruise control, active steering assist, and active brake assist. Pre-Safe systems prepared the car for imminent collisions, and car-to-x communication shared road condition warnings. Rear-passenger airbags and seat belt bags were available for added safety.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 excelled in safety, earning top crash-test ratings. In Canada, blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, while other features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking were optional. GT grades offered adaptive front headlights, Traffic Jam Assist, and a surround-view camera. The Mazda3's driver-assist features performed reliably, and the car received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS.