2022 BMW 3 Series vs 2023 Cadillac CT5

The 2022 BMW 3 Series, particularly the M340i model, was a testament to BMW's commitment to performance and style. With a range of models from the 330i to the M3, the 3 Series offered a variety of powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the 330i and 330e, and a turbocharged six-cylinder engine in the M340i. The M340i, priced at $67,390 with options, featured a special-order Barbera Red paint and Cognac-color SensaTec upholstery, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. The M Performance exterior design, with exclusive grille and bumper designs, Shadowline trim, and blue brake calipers, added to its allure. Inside, the SensaTec upholstery and dashboard wrap provided a sophisticated look, while the technical design focused on driving enjoyment.

In contrast, the 2023 Cadillac CT5-V, tested in Southern California, stood out in a market dominated by Asian and German luxury cars. The CT5-V, dipped in a unique Rift light gray metallic color, rode on 19-inch aluminum wheels with a Pearl Nickel finish, offering a distinct appearance. Priced at $59,405 with options, the CT5-V was positioned between the standard CT5 and the performance-tuned CT5-V Blackwing. Despite its competitive pricing, the CT5-V's interior quality was a mix of high-quality materials and less impressive details. The cabin featured ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, and a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, but the presence of hard plastic panels and unlined storage areas detracted from its overall refinement.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i was equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 382 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivered impressive performance, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The M340i's drivetrain included a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, contributing to a fuel economy of 24.9 mpg on the evaluation route, slightly below the EPA rating of 26 mpg. The car's M Sport suspension, variable sport steering, and optional Adaptive M Suspension provided exceptional handling and driving dynamics, making it a thrilling car to drive.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V featured a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine, generating 360 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of torque. While it offered more power than the base engines of its German rivals, it fell short compared to the BMW M340i. The CT5-V accelerated to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, with a fuel economy of 19.5 mpg on the test route, below its EPA rating of 21 mpg. The car's 10-speed automatic transmission, performance-tuned Magnetic Ride Control suspension, and Brembo brakes contributed to its driving experience. However, the CT5-V's steering lacked feel and feedback, and the car's overall noise levels and lack of refinement were notable drawbacks.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i offered a balance of driving satisfaction and passenger comfort. The power-adjustable front sport seats provided excellent support, and the driving position was ideal. Rear seat passengers had adequate legroom, though the center rear seating position was less practical. The car featured a three-zone automatic climate control system, with options for heated front and rear seats. The 17 cubic-foot trunk and 40/20/40-split folding rear seat added to its practicality, though a sports wagon variant would have been a welcome addition.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V, built on the same platform as the smaller CT4 and Chevrolet Camaro, offered a roomier and more comfortable interior. The standard 18-way power-adjustable front seats, wrapped in Inteluxe artificial leather, provided good comfort and support. However, the rear seats were less accessible due to the door frame design. The CT5-V's rear seat offered a reclined backrest and good thigh support, but the plastic front seatback panels detracted from the overall quality. The car's trunk, at 11.9 cubic feet, was small and narrow, though it included hidden storage and a 60/40 split back seat for added utility.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series came standard with Live Cockpit Professional, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. While the system lacked the integration of maps and Google Earth imagery found in some competitors, it was intuitive to use. The car included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker HiFi sound system, though the absence of a Harman Kardon audio system was notable. The Intelligent Personal Assistant provided conversational voice recognition, and the optional Premium package added a head-up display and other features.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V's Cadillac User Experience (CUE) infotainment system included a 10-inch touchscreen and numerous standard features, such as Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Bose 15-speaker audio system. The system's simplicity was a highlight, with easy-to-use controls and a Home button for navigation. The CT5-V offered an optional navigation system, head-up display, and high-definition surround-view camera. However, the absence of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in future models was a concern, as General Motors planned to replace them with subscription-based services.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series included the Active Guard package, featuring forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and lane-departure warning. The optional Driving Assistance package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Driving Assistance Professional package offered lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and other advanced features. The 3 Series earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5 came with the Cadillac Smart System, offering forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. The CT5-V added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and other features. The optional Super Cruise 1 Package provided hands-free driving assistance on approved highways, with automated lane-change functionality. While Super Cruise was impressive, it required driver attention and had some limitations during testing.