2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs 2022 Mazda MAZDA3

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is rated 7 out of 10 by CarGurus experts, while the 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 scores 9 out of 10.

The exterior styling of the S-Class remains similar to the previous generation, but the wind tunnel testing has resulted in a drag coefficient of 0.22, showcasing its aerodynamic efficiency. The S-Class boasts a spacious interior with a minimalist design, featuring a prominent infotainment touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. The interior is adorned with high-quality materials and advanced ambient lighting with around 250 LED elements and 64 color options.

The Mazda MAZDA3 is available in sedan and hatchback body styles, offering a variety of trim levels and powertrain options. The car's design exudes artistry and maturity, with refined materials and sophisticated interior design. The Mazda3 2.5 Turbo delivers a gradual yet powerful turbocharged driving experience, complemented by a smooth and supple ride.

Both the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 are rated 9 out of 10 by CarGurus experts.

The S-Class offers impressive performance with the S500 4Matic featuring a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine producing 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. The S580 4Matic is equipped with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 generating 496 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. The S-Class features standard air suspension, rear-wheel steering, and a sophisticated E-Active Body Control suspension system, providing a comfortable and composed driving experience.

The Mazda3 lineup offers a range of engines, with the 2.5 Turbo model delivering an exhilarating driving experience with its turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The Mazda3 impresses with nimble handling, flawless steering, and outstanding balance, making it a joy to drive. However, some concerns were raised about the brakes during intense driving conditions.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is rated 8 out of 10, while the 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 scores 6 out of 10 by CarGurus experts.

The S-Class offers a spacious interior with comfortable front seats and a variety of storage options. The optional Executive Line package enhances the car's suitability for chauffeur service with power-adjustable rear seats and four-zone climate control.

The Mazda3 provides a snug yet comfortable fit for the driver, with user-friendly controls and thoughtful padding in key areas. However, the back seat in the hatchback version may be less accommodating for taller passengers.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is rated 9 out of 10, while the 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 scores 5 out of 10 by CarGurus experts.

The S-Class features a comprehensive infotainment setup with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 12.8-inch OLED central touchscreen, and advanced Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system. The car offers a range of tech features, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice control, and an augmented-reality head-up display.

The Mazda3 is equipped with Mazda Connect, an 8.8-inch static infotainment display, and a collection of primary controls. The system lacks a physical tuning function and has limitations in its voice recognition system. However, it includes Mazda Connected Services and an available 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint surround-sound system.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is rated 7 out of 10, while the 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 scores 10 out of 10 by CarGurus experts.

The S-Class offers a wide array of safety features, including an industry-first rear-passenger airbag, adaptive cruise control, automated lane centering, automatic emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera system. However, crash-test ratings from safety organizations are not available at the time of writing.

The Mazda3 comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. The car has achieved top ratings in crash tests performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).