2023 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class retained its stunning design from the previous year, continuing to impress with its sleek and elegant appearance. Despite the growing popularity of SUVs, the S-Class stood as a testament to the enduring appeal of luxury sedans. Its lineage traced back to the 1954 "Ponton" models, and the current W223 generation maintained its status as Mercedes-Benz's flagship sedan. The exterior was defined by its sleek profile, with a long distance between the front axle and dashboard, exuding elegance. Inside, the S-Class boasted a luxurious cabin with high-quality materials, featuring a 12.8-inch touchscreen and a separate 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, offering a delightful and sophisticated driving experience.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3, available in both sedan and hatchback body styles, showcased a bold design with rakish headlights and a large grille. While the sedan had conventional proportions, the hatchback's daring design was forward-thinking, with rear angles curving around the rear window for a futuristic look. Inside, the cabin continued the clean and futuristic theme, with a simple yet stylish layout. The infotainment system rose organically from the dash, though it was not a touchscreen, operated instead by a dial. The Mazda3 offered various trim levels, with features like heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a head-up display, providing a comfortable and modern driving environment.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was designed for both executive commuting and weekend pleasure driving. 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 offered a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission with 4Matic AWD. Despite their weight, the S500 and S580 were quick, with 0-100 km/h times of 4.9 and 4.4 seconds, respectively. The S-Class delivered a smooth and responsive driving experience, with fuel consumption ratings of 11.4 L/100 km city/8.0 highway/9.9 combined for the S500 and 14.3 L/100 km city/9.5 highway/12.2 combined for the S580.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a range of engine options, starting with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. A 2.5-litre engine was available, delivering 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, available on the GT trim, produced 227 hp and 310 lb-ft with regular fuel, or 250 hp and 320 lb-ft with premium fuel. The Mazda3's driving experience was engaging, with well-weighted steering and a sporty feel. The turbo engine provided moderate acceleration, shining in Sport mode, where the transmission held gears longer for optimal performance. The Mazda3 excelled in handling, offering precision and agility while maintaining comfort.

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 offered rapid-heating, multicontour adjustments, and optional ventilated and massaging features. The Executive Rear Seating package, exclusive to the S580, catered to chauffeured passengers with reclining seats and additional controls. The S-Class's soft-close doors added convenience, and the vehicle came with a four-year/80,000-kilometre warranty.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 sedan offered 374 litres of cargo space, while the hatchback provided 569 litres. However, rear seating was cramped, with limited legroom and headroom due to the sloping roofline. The front seating area featured a centre console compartment and ergonomic design, though the console lid was somewhat frustrating. The Mazda3 was designed primarily for front-seat use, with back seats suitable for occasional use.

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 themes, with an optional 3D instrument cluster for added depth. The S-Class included augmented video for navigation and an available augmented reality head-up display. The Burmester 3D Surround sound system delivered high-fidelity audio, with an optional 4D system for an immersive experience. The S-Class also featured EQ Boost and rear-axle steering for enhanced performance and maneuverability.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 came with an 8.8-inch infotainment display, operated via a dial. The system was not user-friendly, with clumsy menu navigation and a steep learning curve. The Mazda3 included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the interface was confusing. The vehicle offered two USB ports, HD radio, Bluetooth, and voice control. Upgrades included navigation, satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Bose stereo system, which provided excellent sound quality.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was packed with safety features, including Magic Vision Control for optimal windshield spray. Driver assistance systems included adaptive cruise control, active steering assist, active brake assist, and active lane-keeping assist. The S-Class also featured Pre-Safe systems for collision preparation and car-to-x communication for road condition warnings. Rear-passenger airbags and seat belt bags were available for added safety.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3's standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The GS trim added forward automatic emergency braking, cruise control, pedestrian detection, and lane-departure warning. The GT trim offered adaptive headlights, traffic-sign recognition, and a 360-degree camera system. However, the hatchback's large C-pillar created a significant blind spot, and the infotainment system's layout posed a distraction. The Mazda3 received high safety ratings, with a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA.