Mazda MAZDA3 vs Lexus ES

The 2022 Lexus ES had long been a staple in the Lexus lineup, evolving over seven generations since its debut in 1990. Despite a decline in sales, it remained a popular choice among an older demographic. Lexus faced the challenge of attracting younger buyers without alienating its loyal customer base. The ES, built on the Global Architecture-K platform, offered a front-engine, front-wheel drive layout with an option for all-wheel drive. Its design featured elegant proportions, a sleek roofline, and the distinctive Lexus "spindle" grille. The interior, while precisely assembled, had an asymmetrical dashboard and sporty F Sport packaging that seemed slightly out of place.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3, available in both sedan and hatchback body styles, boasted a bold design with rakish headlights and a large grille. The hatchback, in particular, stood out with its futuristic design, although it had some practical drawbacks. Inside, the Mazda3 continued the clean, futuristic theme with a simple yet stylish cabin. The conventional shifter design and easy-to-use climate controls were appreciated, while the steering wheel, though cluttered with controls, had an elegant design. The Mazda3 offered various trim levels, with features like heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a moonroof available as you moved up the trims.

The 2022 Lexus ES offered three models with distinct powertrains. The ES 250 AWD featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, with a fuel efficiency rating of 9.5 L/100 km in the city and 7.0 on the highway. The ES 350, with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivered 307 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, achieving 10.7 L/100 km in the city and 7.3 on the highway. The hybrid ES 300h combined a 176-hp four-cylinder engine with a 39-hp electric motor for a net 215 hp, excelling in fuel efficiency with 5.5 L/100 km in the city and 5.2 on the highway. The ES 250 AWD, while smooth and predictable, felt slow compared to its siblings.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a base Skyactiv-G 2.0-litre engine with 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. A 2.5-litre engine, producing 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, was available on higher trims. The turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, optional 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 engaging, with well-weighted steering and impressive handling. The turbocharged engine provided moderate acceleration, shining in Sport mode with clever transmission shifts and excellent torque delivery.

The 2022 Lexus ES offered 394 litres of cargo space, with a pass-through for long items and fold-flat rear seats for additional storage. Its lower centre of gravity and ground clearance contributed to better handling compared to SUVs. Inside, the ES featured heated, ventilated, and power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, and ample storage options. The dashboard layout, while functional, was not particularly attractive.

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

The 2022 Lexus ES came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker Pioneer sound system. Upper trims offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio, and navigation. The touchpad interface was an improvement over previous setups but remained challenging to use. A 10-inch head-up display and a Panoramic View Monitor were available on higher trims.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated via a centre console dial. The system was criticized for its clumsy menu navigation and lack of touchscreen functionality. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, two USB ports, and Bluetooth connectivity. Upgrades included navigation, satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Bose stereo system, which offered excellent sound quality.

The 2022 Lexus ES received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. It came standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, which included features like a pre-collision system, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and 10 airbags.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3's standard safety equipment included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree parking camera system. The Mazda3 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and five stars in NHTSA crash tests. However, the large C-pillar created a significant blind spot, and the infotainment system's layout posed a distraction risk.