2023 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2022 Toyota Camry

In the past, Camrys rarely captivated the attention of onlookers. However, the 2022 Toyota Camry, especially the performance-tuned TRD model, broke the mold. The bright Cavalry Blue paint, exclusive to the TRD model, drew the admiring glances of three young guys as we approached. This color, new for 2022, was complemented by a set of other minor aesthetic tweaks such as standard heated side mirrors and dual-zone automatic climate control on all trims but the TRD. There were additional new paint options like Ice Edge and a Nightshade Edition package for the SE Hybrid with bold black-out elements.

Available in 13 different versions, the Camry offered choices from the base LE to the sporty XSE. The pricing spanned from just over $26,000 to just under $37,000. Customers could select between a four-cylinder engine, a V6, or a gas-electric hybrid powertrain that could achieve over 50 mpg in combined driving. Our test vehicle was a TRD model loaded with optional features like a JBL premium sound system and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment, totaling an MSRP of $35,470.

The Camry TRD stood out with an aerodynamic body kit, matte-black 19-inch wheels, and distinctive red accents, maintaining an aggressive stance with elements such as a front splitter, side skirts, and a rear spoiler. Despite its bold attempts at edginess, the design could be polarizing, with the aggressive exteriors failing to disguise the inherent design that dated back to 2018. Internally, it featured a driver-oriented center console and an unusual dashboard layout, but the red gauge illumination and accents seemed dated and less appealing.

On the flip side, the 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 presented a sleek and forward-thinking design. The car's bold headlights and large, aggressive grille underscored its commanding presence. Offered as a sedan and a hatchback, the latter was particularly notable for its daring design. The design seamlessly extended into the interiors, which were characterized by their clean, minimalist style and ergonomically sound layout.

Mazda3’s interior boasted a conventional shifter design and simple, user-friendly climate controls. The various trim levels offered incremental luxuries starting from the 2.5 S trim with essential features to the high-end 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus, which added premium technology and comfort features. The sedan looked conventional but distinctively chic, while the hatchback offered an unmistakably modern aesthetic, save for a few practical shortcomings in terms of design impact on functionality.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD featured a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. With its eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive (FWD), the vehicle aimed to thrill. Equipped with a sport transmission mode, paddle shifters, sport driving mode, and a dual exhaust system, it promised exhilarating dynamics. According to EPA ratings, it achieved an average of 25 mpg in combined driving, although our tests showed a slightly lower figure at 24.8 mpg, which was still commendable given the spirited mountain driving involved.

The Camry TRD's suspension was reworked for greater control and stability, featuring stiffer sway bars, springs, and TRD shocks. The enhanced brakes, reinforced by thicker underbody braces, maintained a firm grip, and the lower suspension aided in superior handling around winding roads, despite a slight nose-heavy tendency in tight corners. The performance alignments ensured a secure and enjoyable driving experience.

By contrast, the 2023 Mazda MAZDA3’s base 2.5-liter inline-four engine delivered 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. FWD was standard, with AWD available. For enthusiasts, a manual transmission option on FWD Premium trims added excitement. Our review car came with the turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, boosting power to 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular fuel, and an impressive 250 hp and 320 lb-ft using premium fuel.

The turbo engine's dynamic sound and performance, especially in Sport mode, created a thrilling driving experience. The well-weighted steering and balanced handling paired with a low travel, highly responsive brake system to enhance confidence on the road. The AWD and smart gear management further solidified the Mazda3 as an agile yet comfortable vehicle that excelled on various terrains, providing precise control and a refined driving feel, even under demanding conditions.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD’s interiors combined sporty and functional elements, although its red accents might not appeal to all. Comfort was prioritized with power height-adjustable front seats that remained supportive even during spirited drives. Notably, while it comfortably accommodated two adults in the rear seats, the TRD variant did not extend rear-seat air vents and lacked the 60/40-split rear seat functionality. This model offered a 15.1 cubic-foot trunk, a slight compromise in cargo space compared to competitors.

Conversely, the 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 hatchback excelled in cargo space within its class, providing 20.1 cubic feet, sufficient but slightly less practical than many small SUVs. The sedan variant offered 13.1 cubic feet, which trailed behind other compact sedans. Rear seating posed more significant challenges, with limited legroom and headroom due to the sloping roofline, rendering the back seats suitable only for short journeys or smaller passengers.

The Mazda3’s front seating area was designed with ergonomics in mind, featuring a practical center console and accessible cupholders, although the usability of the console compartment lid could be frustrating. Despite these hindrances, the Mazda3's cabin maintained a sophisticated and user-friendly layout that emphasized driver and passenger comfort.

Toyota’s approach for the 2022 Camry TRD included a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which, while smaller than competitors, offered practical features like physical volume and tuning knobs for ease of use. The system supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio, complemented by Toyota’s Safety Connect and Wi-Fi Connect services, with optional upgrades to a 9-inch display and JBL audio system. Significant tech features like dynamic connected navigation were missing but partially mitigated by the smartphone integration capabilities.

In comparison, the 2023 Mazda MAZDA3’s technology suite centered around an 8.8-inch infotainment display that eschewed touchscreen functionality for a rotary dial controller, a choice that often resulted in confusing and unintuitive menu navigation. Despite the challenges, it supported essential integrations like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and offered multiple USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and an optional premium Bose audio system that delivered excellent sound quality.

The 2022 Toyota Camry excelled in safety, with the comprehensive Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ package providing features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision avoidance technologies. The Camry TRD also included blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and Safety Connect services for enhanced security. It was rated highly by the IIHS and NHTSA, attaining a “Top Safety Pick+” rating and five-star evaluations across all tests.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 also prioritized safety, equipping standard features like forward automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Higher trims enhanced safety further with traffic sign recognition, traffic jam assist, and a 360-degree parking camera. However, the large C-pillar created pronounced blind spots, a significant drawback in real-world driving. Despite this, technological features like side mirrors tilting in reverse partially mitigated parking challenges.