2021 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2022 BMW 2 Series

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3, following its 2019 redesign, continued to impress with its award-winning design. The sedan version, which was tested, offered a more conservative look compared to the aggressive stance of the hatchback. The 2.5 Turbo model, available in both body styles, came with all-wheel drive and a choice of standard or Premium Plus trim. The interior, especially in the Premium Plus trim, featured high-quality materials like Nappa leather and metallic accents, aiming to elevate Mazda's brand into the premium segment. Despite some use of hard plastics, the design was driver-focused, with a clear and legible gauge set and a well-integrated infotainment system.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW 2 Series introduced a new exterior design that avoided the aggressive front fascia seen in other BMW models. The 2 Series was available in several configurations, including the RWD 230i Coupe and the AWD M240i xDrive Coupe. The interior was straightforward and driver-oriented, with standard perforated SensaTec upholstery and optional Vernasca leather. The 2 Series offered a range of standard and optional features, including a larger moonroof and various styling packages. However, despite its high-end vibe, some areas of the interior used less premium materials, which detracted from the overall luxury feel.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 2.5 Turbo was powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 250 horsepower with 93-octane fuel and 227 hp with 87-octane. The engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and Mazda's i-Activ AWD system, which improved corner-exit capability. The turbocharged powertrain added significant performance without compromising the car's smoothness and predictability. The Mazda3 Turbo was praised for its dynamic tuning, offering a natural driving character and a thrilling experience on twisty roads. However, during testing, the fuel economy fell short of the EPA estimate, averaging 20.4 mpg.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series offered impressive performance with its turbocharged engines. The 230i Coupe featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 255 hp, while the M240i xDrive Coupe boasted a 3.0-liter inline-six with 382 hp. Both models were equipped with an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, calibrated for smooth and quick shifts. The M240i xDrive came with performance enhancements like an adaptive M suspension and M Sport brakes, providing balanced handling and dynamics. Despite its performance capabilities, the 2 Series was criticized for its lack of engagement, with a numb steering feel and a disconnected driving experience.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 2.5 Turbo's interior was lined with Nappa leather and featured heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. However, it lacked some premium features, such as ventilated seats and rear-seat amenities. The cabin offered adequate storage, but the placement of the wireless smartphone charger reduced storage capacity. The sedan's trunk space measured 13.2 cubic feet, while the hatchback provided more utility with 20.1 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 47.1 cubic feet with it folded down.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series, while technically seating four, was cramped in the rear, suitable only for children or short trips. The coupe's design, with its slanted roofline, limited rear headroom and trunk access. The trunk offered 10 cubic feet of cargo space, with the option to expand using the 40/20/40-split fold-down rear seats. The interior featured soft touchpoints and improved ergonomics, with a layout similar to other new BMW models.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system with an 8.8-inch display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. However, the lack of a touchscreen and poor voice-recognition technology were significant drawbacks. The system was paired with a 12-speaker Bose premium sound system, which offered good sound quality but struggled with certain audio sources. A head-up display was standard, providing useful driving information.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series came with an 8.8-inch touchscreen and a 5.1-inch driver information display, featuring the iDrive 7 operating system and over-the-air updates. The infotainment system included cloud-based navigation, real-time traffic updates, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An optional Live Cockpit Professional package upgraded the displays and added a head-up display. The standard audio system was a 10-speaker Hi-Fi setup, with an optional Harman Kardon system available for enhanced sound quality.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 was equipped with the i-ActiveSense suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), designed to support the driver and prevent collisions. The Premium Plus trim added exclusive safety features like a surround-view camera and Traffic Jam Assist. The Mazda3 received top safety ratings from the NHTSA, though the IIHS had not yet updated its rating.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series featured the Active Driving Assistant suite, including blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and lane departure warning. Optional safety features included adaptive LED headlights and a 360-degree surround view. The BMW Drive Recorder allowed for recording driving footage using the onboard cameras. The 2 Series had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA.