2023 BMW 3 Series vs 2023 Mazda MAZDA3

The 2023 BMW 3 Series, a staple of the Bavarian brand since 1975, underwent a subtle yet sporty refresh for its seventh-generation model. The exterior design retained its narrow kidney grille and introduced redesigned full-LED headlights with inverted L-shaped daytime running lights. The front fascia's lower air intakes were reshaped, leading to flared rear-wheel arches, creating a striking first impression. New paint options like Skyscraper Grey and Brooklyn Grey metallic were added, while the M Sport package offered chrome grille accents and a larger rear diffuser. Inside, the 3 Series featured the advanced BMW iDrive 8 system with a 27.2-inch BMW Curved Display, creating a driver-centric cockpit with a minimalist dashboard design.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a bold design with rakish headlights and a large grille, available in both sedan and hatchback body styles. The hatchback's futuristic design, with its curving rear angles, was a standout feature. Inside, the cabin continued the clean, futuristic theme with a conventional shifter design and easy-to-use climate controls. The steering wheel, though cluttered with controls, maintained an elegant design. Trim levels in Canada included the GX, GS, GT, and GT Turbo, with varying transmission and drivetrain options. Standard features on the GX included 16-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, and an 8.8-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series retained its powertrains from previous years, featuring a twin-turbo 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine for the 330i and 330e, and a twin-turbo 3.0-litre inline-six for the M340i. The 330i produced 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds. The 330e, with its electric motor, offered a combined output of 288 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a 35-kilometre electric-only range. The M340i, with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivered 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, reaching 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. Fuel economy varied slightly across trims, with the 330i xDrive achieving 8.6 L/100 km combined, while the 330e offered 3.2 Le/100 km in electric mode.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 in Canada featured a base Skyactiv-G 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. A 2.5-litre inline-four, producing 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, was optional on the GS and standard on the GT. The turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, available on the GT trim, delivered 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque with regular fuel, or 250 hp and 320 lb-ft with premium fuel. The Mazda3's driving experience was enhanced by well-weighted steering and a responsive transmission, particularly in Sport mode. The vehicle's handling was precise and refined, offering a balance of agility and comfort.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series offered a compact yet comfortable interior, with front headroom of 982 millimetres and legroom of 1,066 millimetres. Rear occupants had 955 mm of headroom and 894 mm of legroom, providing ample space for average-sized adults. The 3 Series featured SensaTec faux leather upholstery, supportive front sport seats, and a leather steering wheel. Cargo space was 481 litres, with rear seats folding in a 40/20/40 split. Standard features included a power moonroof, heated front seats, and remote start, with optional upgrades like a heated steering wheel and power lumbar support.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 sedan provided 374 litres of cargo space, while the hatchback offered 569 litres. However, rear seating was limited, with minimal legroom and headroom due to the sloping roofline. The front seating area featured a centre console compartment and sizable cupholders, though the console lid was somewhat frustrating. The Mazda3's ergonomics were generally helpful, but the rear seating area was best suited for occasional use.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series featured the advanced BMW iDrive 8 system, with a 12.3-inch driver information display and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The system was intuitive, with customizable widgets and voice-activated controls via the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. Standard tech features included USB-C ports, Bluetooth, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a 10-speaker audio system. Optional upgrades included wireless device charging, a Harman Kardon sound system, and a 5G hotspot.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 came with an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated via a centre console dial. The system's menu navigation was clumsy, particularly when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Standard features included two USB ports, HD radio, and Bluetooth connectivity. Our test model included navigation, satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Bose stereo system, which offered excellent sound quality.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA, though the PHEV model was unrated. The IIHS had not yet rated the 2023 model, but the 2022 version earned a Top Safety Pick. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, LED headlights, and Active Guard. Additional safety options were available in packages, such as the Advanced Driver Assistance Package, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.

In Canada, the 2023 Mazda MAZDA3's standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The GS trim added features like forward automatic emergency braking and lane-departure warning, while the GT trim offered adaptive headlights and a 360-degree parking camera. The Mazda3 hatchback's design posed a safety concern due to its large C-pillar, creating a significant blind spot. The IIHS rated the Mazda3 as a Top Safety Pick, and the NHTSA awarded it five stars in front crash and rollover tests.