2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2020 Mazda MAZDA3

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 offered both sedan and hatchback body styles, with the hatchback standing out due to its unique curves and silhouette. The sedan, however, was more popular among U.S. shoppers aiming for an upmarket feel. The test vehicle, a sedan with the Premium Package and AWD, featured 18-inch alloy wheels, a blacked-out mesh front grille, and round running lamps. The side profile was sculpted without being angular, unlike many competitors. The rear design of the sedan felt somewhat disproportionate, but the hatchback's rounded shape mitigated this issue. Inside, the Mazda3 embraced simplicity and minimalism, with creamy white leather and a driver-focused design. However, the sheet metal felt less sturdy, lacking the solid construction found in more expensive luxury sedans.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI, a continuation of the hot hatch legacy, shared its basics with the regular Golf but included subtle enhancements. Red GTI badges, a red horizontal strip on the grille, and painted brake calipers were some of the distinguishing features. The GTI was lowered by 0.6 inches compared to the regular Golf, with stainless-steel exhaust tips completing the look. Inside, the GTI featured red ambient lighting, a race-inspired flat-bottomed steering wheel, and heated front sport seats. The quality of materials and paintwork was top-notch, maintaining a high standard of fit and finish.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3's performance was compromised by its torsion beam rear suspension, a cost-cutting measure that replaced the previous multi-link setup. While this decision might have disappointed enthusiasts, everyday drivers likely wouldn't notice the difference. The 2.5-liter SkyActiv four-cylinder engine produced 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, an improvement over the previous generation. However, the engine lacked the immediate punch of turbocharged motors. The Mazda3 offered a six-speed manual transmission, but only in specific FWD hatchback models, making the manual option more expensive. Most models, including the test vehicle, came with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI excelled in performance, thanks to its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The test vehicle, an Autobahn model, featured a DSG seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, though a six-speed manual was also available. The GTI's four-wheel independent suspension, with DCC adaptive damping in the Autobahn model, provided excellent handling. However, the performance-oriented setup resulted in a rough ride on ordinary roads. The GTI's fuel economy was respectable, with the manual transmission achieving 23 mpg city/30 mpg highway/26 mpg combined, and the dual-clutch transmission slightly better at 24 mpg city/32 mpg highway/27 mpg combined.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 sedan measured 183.5 inches in length with a 107.3-inch wheelbase, while the hatchback was more compact at 175.6 inches. The interior offered ample room for the driver, though rear legroom was tight. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with materials holding up well even after 10,000 miles. The sedan's trunk provided 13.2 cubic feet of cargo space, and the hatchback offered 20.1 cubic feet, both on the smaller side for the segment.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI, with a 103.6-inch wheelbase, was 168.0 inches long, 70.8 inches wide, and 57.8 inches tall. The hatchback form allowed for 17.4 cubic feet of luggage space behind the rear seats, expanding to 24.8 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. The front row accommodated taller drivers comfortably, while the second row was adequate for average-sized adults. The GTI's compact dimensions and tight turning circle of 35.8 feet made it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Inside, clever storage options included large front door pockets and well-sized cupholders, though the mechanical handbrake interfered slightly with the driver's reach.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display integrated into the dashboard, controlled via a rotary dial between the front seats. The system eliminated touch functionality, which Mazda argued was safer. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and Sirius XM satellite radio were included. The head-up display reflected off the windshield, enhancing the premium feel.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI included the VW MIB touchscreen infotainment system, with S models using a 6.5-inch screen and SE and Autobahn models an 8-inch screen with navigation. The system supported tablet-like gesture controls and capacitive-touch sensors. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, MirrorLink, Bluetooth, and two USB ports were standard. SE models offered a three-month trial to SiriusXM with 360L. Volkswagen Car-Net provided additional connectivity options, including Amazon Alexa integration. Standard smart technology included LED lights, keyless access, rain-sensing wipers, and heated mirrors.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 was a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, with top scores in all crash tests and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Advanced driver assistance systems included forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and dynamic brake support.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top "Good" scores from the IIHS, except for an "Acceptable" score in the small overlap front passenger side test and headlights. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and multiple airbags. The Autobahn trim added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, park distance control, park assist, and high-beam control.