2023 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2023 Cadillac CT5

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V was a rare sight on Canadian roads, often turning heads and drawing attention, particularly from male onlookers. The test vehicle was finished in a distinctive light grey metallic colour called Rift, which, combined with its 19-inch aluminum wheels with a Pearl Nickel finish, made it stand out in a market dominated by Asian and German luxury cars. The CT5-V's design was a blend of black, body colour, chrome, and wheel-matching finishes, with Cadillac achieving a harmonious balance in its proportions and details.

Inside, the CT5-V offered a mix of high-quality materials and less impressive elements. While the leather, matte-finish buttons, and polished metallic accents met luxury expectations, the presence of hard plastic panels and unlined storage areas detracted from the overall impression. Despite these shortcomings, the CT5-V was equipped with standard features like ambient lighting, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, making its technology user-friendly and accessible.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 was available in both sedan and hatchback body styles, with the latter showcasing a daring and futuristic design. The hatchback's rear angles and curves contributed to its modern aesthetic, although they also presented some practical challenges. Inside, the Mazda3 continued its clean and minimalist theme, with an infotainment system that seamlessly integrated into the dash, offering a lesson in design simplicity.

The Mazda3's cabin featured a conventional shifter design and straightforward climate controls, enhancing its user-friendliness. 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 GT Turbo trim, which we tested, boasted a more powerful engine and additional features like paddle shifters and genuine leather upholstery.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V was powered by a twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 360 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of torque. This placed it above the base engines of its German competitors but below the performance variants like the BMW M340i. The CT5-V could accelerate to 100 km/h in about five seconds, although it felt slower than it sounded. The car featured Active Fuel Management and a fuel economy rating of 11.2 L/100 km in combined driving, with our test achieving 12.1 L/100 km.

The CT5-V's 10-speed automatic transmission, paired with an electronic limited-slip differential, offered several driving modes, including Tour, Sport, Track, My Mode, and V-Mode. The Magnetic Ride Control adaptive damping suspension and Brembo front brakes enhanced its performance capabilities. However, the CT5-V was not a quiet car, with road noise and suspension racket detracting from its refinement. Despite these issues, the CT5-V excelled in balance, body control, and grip, although its steering lacked feel and feedback.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a range of engine options, with the base model featuring a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower. The 2.5-litre inline-four, available on higher trims, delivered 191 horsepower. Our test model, the GT Turbo, came with a turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, producing 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 Mazda3's driving experience was engaging, with well-weighted steering and a satisfying turbo engine sound. While off-the-line acceleration was moderate, the car shone in second gear, with Sport mode enhancing its performance. The Mazda3's handling was a standout feature, offering precision and refinement, with excellent balance and agility. The brake feel was akin to that of a sports car, requiring careful modulation.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5 offered a spacious and comfortable interior, built on the same platform as the smaller CT4 and Chevrolet Camaro. The CT5-V featured standard artificial leather on its 18-way power-adjustable front seats, with genuine leather and ventilated seats as options. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard in Canada. The rear seats, while offering good support, were less accessible due to the door frame design.

The CT5-V's trunk provided 337 litres of cargo space, which was small and narrow, making packing a challenge. However, Cadillac included hidden storage under the trunk floor and a deep well for additional items. The rear seats could be folded to accommodate longer items.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 sedan offered 374 litres of cargo space, while the hatchback provided 569 litres. The rear seating area was cramped, with limited legroom and headroom, making it suitable for occasional use. The front seating area featured a centre console compartment, although the lid design was somewhat frustrating. The Mazda3's ergonomics and cupholders were well-designed, enhancing its practicality.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V featured a user-friendly Cadillac User Experience (CUE) infotainment system with a 10-inch touchscreen and 12-inch digital instrumentation. Standard features included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and a Bose 15-speaker audio system. The system's simplicity and logical layout made it easy to use, with physical controls for volume and tuning.

Optional upgrades included a navigation system, head-up display, and a high-definition surround-view camera. The CT5-V's voice recognition system worked well for radio tuning but struggled with climate control adjustments. Despite the lack of an embedded navigation system, Apple CarPlay integration was seamless.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 came with an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated via a centre console dial. This system was a weak point, with clumsy menu navigation and a steep learning curve. The standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration was hindered by the system's design, requiring frequent attention away from the road.

Standard features included two USB ports, HD radio, and Bluetooth connectivity. Our test model featured upgrades like navigation, satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Bose stereo system, which delivered excellent sound quality.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5 came with a standard Cadillac Smart System, including forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and a vibrating Safety Alert Seat. The CT5-V added features like adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The optional Super Cruise 1 Package offered hands-free driving assistance on approved highways, with automated lane-change functionality.

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, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The GT grade included adaptive headlights, traffic-sign recognition, and a 360-degree parking camera system. The Mazda3 received high safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.