2022 BMW i4 vs 2023 Mazda MAZDA3

The 2022 BMW i4's design was a continuation of the gasoline-powered 4 Series Gran Coupe, featuring a polarizing oversized grille and a "Gran Coupe" label that confused some due to its four-door sedan structure with a rear hatch. Despite its resemblance to its gasoline counterpart, the i4 boasted improved aerodynamics, with a drag coefficient of 0.24 for the base eDrive40 and 0.25 for the M50 model. This was achieved through design tweaks like a smooth underbody and active grille flaps. The i4's interior balanced minimalism with traditional BMW elements, featuring a freestanding screen and familiar controls, though leather upholstery was not standard.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a bold design with rakish headlights and a large grille, available in both sedan and hatchback forms. The hatchback stood out with its futuristic design, though it compromised rear visibility. Inside, the Mazda3's cabin was a lesson in simplicity, with an infotainment system that rose organically from the dash. The conventional shifter and easy-to-use climate controls were appreciated, though the steering wheel was cluttered with controls. The Mazda3 came in various trims, each adding features like larger wheels, leather upholstery, and advanced driver assistance systems.

The 2022 BMW i4 eDrive40 delivered 335 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds. The M50 model, with its two-motor powertrain, produced 536 hp and 586 lb-ft of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds. Despite its weight, the i4's handling was impressive, thanks to a low center of gravity and advanced suspension systems. The adaptive suspension provided a smooth ride, and the integrated braking system offered natural pedal feel. However, the adaptive recuperation system's inconsistent regenerative braking was a minor drawback.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3's base engine was a 2.5-liter inline-four with 191 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, available with FWD or AWD. The turbocharged 2.5-liter engine in our test model delivered 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular fuel, or 250 hp and 320 lb-ft with premium fuel. The Mazda3 excelled in steering feedback and handling, with a well-weighted steering wheel and agile cornering. The turbo engine provided moderate acceleration, shining in second gear and Sport mode. The brake feel was akin to a sports car, requiring precise control.

The 2022 BMW i4 offered a low seating position despite the battery pack, with limited headroom due to the fastback roof. The interior felt open, with an efficiently designed center console. However, the seats were flat and hard, and the lack of a power-adjustable steering column was disappointing. The i4 had 10 cubic feet of cargo space, less than competitors, and lacked a front trunk.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 sedan provided 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space, while the hatchback offered 20.1 cubic feet. Rear seating was cramped, with limited legroom and headroom. The front seating area had a decent center console, though the lid was frustrating. The ergonomics and cupholders were well-designed, but the rear seats were best used sparingly.

The 2022 BMW i4 featured the iDrive8 infotainment system with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 14.9-inch touchscreen. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation. The rotary controller and voice recognition system made navigation easy, reducing reliance on the touchscreen.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3's 8.8-inch infotainment display was not a touchscreen, operated instead by a dial. This system was cumbersome, with a steep learning curve. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration was confusing, and the menu navigation was unintuitive. The test model included a Bose stereo system, which provided excellent sound quality.

The 2022 BMW i4 came with standard driver-assist features like forward-collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. Optional packages added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and a 360-degree camera system. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of publication.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 included standard safety features such as automatic emergency braking and adaptive headlights. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, traffic-sign recognition, and a 360-degree camera system. However, the large C-pillar created a significant blind spot, and the infotainment system's layout posed a distraction risk.