2022 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2023 Acura Integra

The 2023 Acura Integra was designed with a cohesive aesthetic that aligned with Acura's broader vehicle lineup, featuring a pentagonal grille, JewelEye headlights, and sharply creased character lines. This modern Integra seamlessly fit in with the larger TLX sedan and the RDX and MDX crossovers. With the introduction of the Integra, Acura phased out the ILX compact sedan, acknowledging the declining market for sedans. The Integra distinguished itself with a five-door liftback design, a nod to the third-generation Integra, and a wide track that gave it a solid, planted appearance. Available in three core trims—base, A-Spec, and A-Spec with Technology—the Integra offered various wheel sizes and performance all-season tires, enhancing its distinctive rear-end look with features like a decklid spoiler and dual exhaust outlets.

Inside, the Integra shared some similarities with the Honda Civic, maintaining cost-effectiveness without feeling like a mere re-skin. The interior featured honeycomb grilles for climate control vents, a 9-inch color touchscreen, and a thin steering wheel that provided excellent exterior visibility. The A-Spec trims included microsuede upholstery, though lacking in breathability, and the Integra did not offer ventilated seats. While it didn't match the bespoke refinement of German competitors, the Integra was well-constructed and offered a satisfying driving experience.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 continued to offer both sedan and hatchback body styles, with the 2.0, 2.5 S, and 2.5 Turbo model series. The 2.5 S lineup provided the most variety, with five trim levels and options for FWD or AWD. The 2.5 S Premium hatchback was the only model offering a six-speed manual transmission. Prices ranged from $20,800 to $34,400, excluding destination charges. The top-of-the-line 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus hatchback, with its Polymetal Gray Metallic paint, had an MSRP of $35,810.

The Mazda3's design was not universally appealing, with deeply sculpted flanks and a hatchback that some might call "hunchback." However, it exuded a mature, serious demeanor without flashy elements. Inside, the Mazda3 offered refined materials and sophisticated design, creating an upscale environment. The car's appeal extended to those seeking value, as it delivered more for less compared to entry-level luxury cars, except in terms of perceived cachet.

The 2023 Acura Integra marked a first with its turbocharged engine, a lively 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder paired with a six-speed manual transmission. The A-Spec with Technology trim was the only one offering the manual option, while lower trims came with a CVT. The Integra's powertrain, shared with the Civic Si, delivered 200 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque, providing a competitive edge. The manual transmission featured automatic rev-matching, enhancing downshifting ease. The Integra's handling was impressive, with a firm suspension, wide track, and long wheelbase contributing to its sporty ride. The variable-ratio electric power-steering system offered a natural feel on highways and sharp responsiveness in corners. Three drive modes—Comfort, Normal, and Sport—allowed for customization, with Sport mode noticeably stiffening the adaptive dampers and steering feel.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a range of engine options, starting with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the 2.0 sedan, producing 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. The 2.5 S model, with a 2.5-liter engine, generated 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, available with FWD or AWD. The 2.5 Turbo model featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, delivering 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque on 87-octane fuel, or 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet on 93-octane. The Turbo model's AWD and smooth power delivery made it a joy to drive, though fuel economy fell short of expectations. The Mazda3 excelled in handling, with nimble steering, unyielding grip, and outstanding balance. However, the brakes showed signs of fade during demanding conditions, suggesting a need for an upgrade.

The 2023 Acura Integra's liftback design enhanced its practicality, offering 24.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. However, the high lift-over height posed challenges for loading heavy items. The interior provided ample space and comfort for the driver and passengers, with a logical dashboard layout and well-placed storage options. Rear legroom was decent, but headroom was limited for taller passengers due to the steeply sloped roofline. The rear seat cushions were notably soft, adding to passenger comfort.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3's low seating position made entry and exit challenging, but once inside, the front seats offered a snug yet comfortable fit. The driver-focused interior featured an eight-way power-adjustable seat, heated front seats, and leather upholstery in higher trims. The back seat provided decent comfort and legroom for shorter passengers, but taller occupants would find it cramped. Storage space was adequate, with large door bins, a big glove compartment, and a sizable center console bin. The hatchback offered 20.1 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 47.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Acura Integra came equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster as standard. The Technology package upgraded the 7-inch touchscreen to a 9-inch unit, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless charging pad. The A-Spec with Technology trim added a USB-C port for the front seats and two USB-A ports for the rear. The ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, with 16 speakers, provided an exceptional listening experience.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system, with an 8.8-inch display integrated into the dashboard. Mazda's approach avoided touchscreens, using center console controls and voice recognition instead. While the philosophy aimed to reduce distractions, the lack of a physical tuning function and voice recognition issues posed challenges. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offered alternatives for seamless integration. Mazda Connected Services provided remote access to vehicle functions, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system was available in higher trims.

The 2023 Acura Integra set a high standard for safety equipment, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) across all trims. Features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. The A-Spec with Technology trim added low-speed braking control and parking sensors. The Integra received a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 excelled in safety, with standard features like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, adaptive front headlights, and Traffic Jam Assist. The Mazda3 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).