2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2023 Mazda MAZDA3

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was available in a variety of body styles, including coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon. This range of options was unparalleled in the market. The E-Class sedans came with an E350 model designation, featuring a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the E450 variants were powered by a turbo 3.0-liter inline-six with EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid technology. Rear-wheel drive was standard, but 4Matic all-wheel drive was also available. For driving enthusiasts, the AMG-tuned E-Class models, such as the AMG E53, offered a more powerful version of the E450’s engine.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 was offered in sedan and hatchback body styles. The sedan had conventional proportions, while the hatchback boasted a daring and futuristic design. The clean and forward-thinking design extended into the cabin, where simplicity and organic integration of the infotainment system were key highlights. The Mazda3 featured a conventional shifter design and easy-to-use climate controls, making it user-friendly. Trim levels ranged from the 2.5 S to the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus, each adding more features and luxury as you moved up the lineup.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 models were equipped with a 3.0-liter turbo-six engine featuring Mercedes' EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology. This system used a 48-volt electrical setup and an integrated starter generator to enhance power and efficiency. The AMG-tuned engine produced 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, delivering robust performance across a wide rev range. The car could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ variable AWD system ensured that power was effectively transmitted to the pavement. The E53 Cabriolet also featured an AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system, making it a versatile vehicle capable of both relaxed cruising and spirited driving.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a base 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four engine with 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, with AWD available. A manual transmission was also an option for FWD Premium models. Our test model featured the optional turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which produced 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular fuel, or 250 hp and 320 lb-ft with premium fuel. The turbo engine provided a thrilling driving experience, with well-weighted steering and impressive handling. The Mazda3 excelled in cornering balance and agility, making it a joy to drive on winding roads.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, offering comfortable seating for adults in both the front and rear. The Aircap system reduced turbulence in the cabin when the top was down. The front seats were equipped with heated and ventilated options, along with a neck-warming Airscarf system. The triple-layer acoustic soft top helped keep the cabin cool and quiet in hot weather. The trunk offered 9.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the top raised, but this was significantly reduced when the top was lowered.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 sedan provided 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space, while the hatchback offered 20.1 cubic feet. However, the rear seating area was cramped, with limited legroom and headroom, making it suitable for occasional use only. The front seating area featured a decently sized center console compartment and ergonomic cupholders. The overall design prioritized front-seat comfort and usability.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, which included two 12.3-inch screens for the touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. The system was user-friendly, with multiple interaction options, including voice control and touch-sensing buttons on the steering wheel. Standard features included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with upgrades like WiFi service and an augmented reality video overlay for navigation. The test car also had a Burmester surround-sound audio system.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 came with an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated via a dial in the center console. This system was not a touchscreen, which made menu navigation clumsy and unintuitive. The standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, two USB ports, HD radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice control. Our test model had additional features like navigation, satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Bose premium stereo system.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class came with standard safety features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The E-Class Cabriolet also had pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Additional safety features were available in the Driver Assistance Package, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, and more. The test car was equipped with this package, providing a comprehensive suite of driver aids.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a range of standard safety features, including forward automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-departure warning, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Higher trims added features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, traffic-sign recognition, and a 360-degree parking camera system. However, the large C-pillar created a significant blind spot, posing a safety concern.