2022 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2022 BMW 2 Series

The 2022 BMW 2 Series presented a fresh exterior design that avoided the aggressive front fascia seen in other BMW models. It was available in both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, with the 230i Coupe and M240i xDrive Coupe as the main variants. The 2 Series Gran Coupe continued with front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive options, but the convertible was discontinued. The Coupe variants featured a longer wheelbase and wider, lower dimensions, enhancing their sporty appearance. The M240i xDrive Coupe stood out with performance-oriented styling, including shadowy M-type accents and a standard M Shadowline package. The interior was driver-focused, offering standard SensaTec upholstery and optional Vernasca leather, with an 8.8-inch infotainment touchscreen as standard and a 10.25-inch display available. Despite its high-end vibe, some interior elements revealed cost-cutting measures.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 maintained its design with no significant changes, available in sedan and hatchback styles. The lineup included the affordable 2.0 sedan, the popular 2.5 S, and the sporty 2.5 Turbo. The 2.5 S offered a variety of trims and drivetrain options, including a manual transmission in the hatchback. The Mazda3's design was not universally appealing, with its sculpted flanks and hatchback shape, but it exuded a mature and serious demeanor. Inside, the Mazda3 featured refined materials and a sophisticated design, with polished metallic finishes creating an upscale atmosphere. The interior was driver-centric, with excellent thigh and side bolster support, though the back seat was less accommodating for taller passengers. Storage space was adequate, and the hatchback offered 20.1 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 47.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series delivered impressive performance for a subcompact car. The 230i Coupe featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the M240i xDrive boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The 230i Coupe accelerated to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, while the M240i xDrive achieved it in just 4.1 seconds. Both models had a top speed of either 130 mph or 155 mph, depending on specifications. The eight-speed Sport automatic transmission was the sole option, offering smooth shifts and quick responses with paddle shifters. The M240i xDrive came with performance features like an aerodynamic kit, adaptive M suspension, and M Sport brakes, while the 230i could be equipped with similar enhancements. Despite its speed and agility, the 2 Series lacked engagement, with a numb steering feel and a disconnected driving experience.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a range of engine options, starting with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the 2.0 sedan, producing 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. The 2.5 S model featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The 2.5 Turbo model had a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, delivering 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque on regular gas, or 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet with premium fuel. The Mazda3 excelled in driving dynamics, offering a smooth and supple ride, nimble handling, and excellent steering feedback. However, the brakes showed signs of fade during demanding driving conditions. Despite this, the Mazda3 provided a thrilling driving experience with its gradual power delivery and outstanding balance.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series was compact, with limited rear seat space suitable for children or small adults. The front seats offered relative comfort, but taller passengers would find the rear cramped. The coupe's slanted roofline and design elements reduced rear headroom and trunk space, though the 40/20/40-split fold-down rear seats allowed for some cargo flexibility. The interior featured soft touchpoints and improved ergonomics, with multifunction buttons on the leather-wrapped sport steering wheel.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 had a low seating position, making entry and exit challenging. The front seats provided a snug yet comfortable fit, with excellent thigh and side bolster support. The interior was driver-focused, with user-friendly controls and padded armrests. The back seat offered decent comfort for shorter passengers, but taller individuals would find it cramped. Storage space was adequate, with large door bins and a sizable center console bin. The hatchback provided 20.1 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 47.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series featured an 8.8-inch touchscreen and a 5.1-inch driver information display as standard, with an optional 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital display. The infotainment system included BMW Live Cockpit Plus, offering over-the-air updates, cloud-based navigation, and connected services. Additional features included a WiFi hotspot, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a head-up display. The BMW Digital Key allowed remote access via the My BMW App. The standard audio system had 10 speakers, with an optional Harman Kardon 14-speaker system available.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 used the Mazda Connect infotainment system with an 8.8-inch display and center console controls. Mazda avoided touchscreens, opting for a more traditional setup. The system included steering wheel controls and voice recognition, though the latter had limitations. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration provided alternatives for navigation and music streaming. Mazda Connected Services offered remote access to vehicle functions, with a Wi-Fi hotspot available. The standard audio system had eight speakers, with a 12-speaker Bose system available on higher trims.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series came with Active Driving Assistant, including blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional safety features included a rearview camera, park distance control, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included adaptive front LED headlights, automatic high beams, and a 360-degree surround view. The BMW Drive Recorder could capture driving footage before and after a collision. The 2 Series had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 excelled in safety, with standard adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive front headlights. The 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus featured Traffic Jam Assist, reverse automatic braking, and a surround-view camera. The Mazda3 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.