2022 BMW i4 vs 2022 Mazda MAZDA3

The 2022 BMW i4 was a striking vehicle, with its design closely mirroring the gasoline-powered 4 Series Gran Coupe. Its oversized grille was a point of contention, and the use of the term "Gran Coupe" for what was essentially a four-door sedan with a rear hatch added to the confusion. Despite these quirks, the i4 boasted improved aerodynamics over its gasoline counterpart, with a drag coefficient of 0.24 for the base model and 0.25 for the M50 variant. BMW achieved this through various design tweaks, including a smooth underbody and an active grille flap. The interior of the i4 balanced modern minimalism with traditional BMW elements, featuring a freestanding screen and familiar controls. However, leather upholstery was not standard, and some interior features, like the wireless charging pad, had limitations.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3, available in both sedan and hatchback forms, maintained its artistic design, though it wasn't universally appealing. The hatchback, in particular, had a unique look that some might describe as "hunchbacked." The Mazda3 2.5 Turbo model, with its understated design, exuded a mature and serious demeanor. Inside, the Mazda3 offered a refined and sophisticated environment, with polished metallic finishes and high-quality materials. The interior was driver-focused, 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 i4 delivered impressive performance, with the base i4 eDrive40 producing 335 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds. The M50 model, with its two-motor powertrain, boasted 536 hp and 586 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. Despite its weight, the i4 handled well, thanks to its low center of gravity and advanced suspension systems. The Dynamic Handling Package further enhanced the driving experience, providing a smooth ride and precise steering. The i4's regenerative braking system, however, was a mixed bag, with an adaptive recuperation system that sometimes felt inconsistent.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a range of engine options, starting with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 155 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque. The 2.5 S model, with its 186 hp engine, was the most popular choice, while the 2.5 Turbo model delivered up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. The turbocharged Mazda3 was a joy to drive, with smooth power delivery and excellent handling. However, its fuel economy fell short of expectations, and the brakes showed signs of fade during demanding driving conditions. Despite these drawbacks, the Mazda3 remained a fun and engaging car to drive.

The 2022 BMW i4 offered a low seating position, which was surprising given the battery pack beneath the floor. While the fastback roof limited headroom, the interior felt open and airy. The center console was efficiently designed, but the seats lacked the expected bolstering for a sporty car. Cargo space was limited to 10 cubic feet, and the i4 did not include a front trunk like some competitors.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 had a snug but comfortable interior, with a driver-focused design. The front seats offered excellent support, but the back seat was less accommodating for taller passengers. Storage space was adequate, with large door bins and a sizable center console. The hatchback provided 20.1 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 47.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 BMW i4 featured the latest iDrive8 infotainment system with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch central touchscreen. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth, with options for a head-up display and Harman Kardon audio. The user experience was familiar to existing BMW drivers, with a rotary controller and effective voice recognition system.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 used the Mazda Connect infotainment system, with an 8.8-inch display and a collection of controls on the center console. While Mazda avoided touchscreens to reduce driver distraction, the system had its drawbacks, including a lack of physical tuning functions and a voice recognition system that required specific commands. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, along with Mazda Connected Services for remote access to vehicle functions.

The 2022 BMW i4 came equipped with standard driver-assist features like forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. An optional Driving Assistance Professional Package added adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The Parking Assistant Package offered a 360-degree camera system and parking assistance features. However, crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 excelled in safety, with standard features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring and adaptive front headlights. The Mazda3 received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, making it one of the safest compact cars on the road.