2023 BMW 3 Series vs 2024 Cadillac CT5

The 2023 BMW 3 Series, a staple of the Bavarian brand since 1975, continued to captivate with its seventh-generation model, which received a mid-cycle refresh. The lineup included the petrol-powered 330i and M340i, as well as the plug-in hybrid 330e. The exterior design updates were subtle yet sporty, maintaining the narrow kidney grille and introducing redesigned full-LED headlights with inverted L-shaped daytime running lights. The lower air intakes and character lines led to flared rear-wheel arches, creating a striking first impression. Standard 18-inch double-spoke light alloys were offered, with an optional 19-inch upgrade. Shadowline trim became standard, and new paint options like Skyscraper Grey were introduced. Inside, the 3 Series featured the advanced BMW iDrive 8 system with a 27.2-inch BMW Curved Display, creating a driver-centric cockpit with a minimalist dashboard design.

The 2024 Cadillac CT5, launched as the successor to the CTS, presented a more restrained design compared to its predecessor. The front fascia retained a distinctive look, while the stretched wheelbase and fastback silhouette added a stately appearance. Despite being older than some competitors, the CT5 maintained a contemporary and clean design. Cadillac's trim levels included the base Luxury, Premium Luxury, Sport, and performance-oriented CT5-V and CT5-V Blackwing models. The interior, however, seemed to lack cohesion, with various surfaces not blending well. While features like massaging front seats added luxury, the overall cabin appearance felt less premium. Despite this, the CT5 offered a sporty driving position and decent storage space, making it a practical choice for those seeking a blend of luxury and sportiness.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series retained its powertrains from previous years, featuring a twin-turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine for the 330i and 330e, and a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six for the M340i. All models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive standard and xDrive all-wheel drive available. The 330i produced 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The 330e, with its electric motor, offered 288 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in 5.6 seconds and providing up to 22 miles of electric-only range. The M340i, with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivered 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. Fuel economy varied slightly across trims, with the 330i achieving 25 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, while the M340i offered 23 city and 31 highway mpg.

The 2024 Cadillac CT5 offered a range of powertrain options, starting with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. A 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 was also available, delivering 335 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive optional. The CT5-V featured a tuned version of the V6, producing 360 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque, while the high-performance CT5-V Blackwing boasted a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 with 668 hp and 659 lb-ft of torque. The CT5 Premium Luxury model, with its twin-turbo V6, achieved 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds for AWD models and 4.9 seconds for RWD models. The CT5 offered a sporty yet comfortable ride, with low interior noise and a satisfying exhaust growl at full throttle.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series provided a compact yet comfortable interior, with 38.7 inches of front headroom and 42 inches of legroom. Rear passengers enjoyed 37.6 inches of headroom and 35.2 inches of legroom, offering ample space for average-sized adults. Standard upholstery was SensaTec faux leather, with supportive power-adjustable front sport seats. The 3 Series featured a user-friendly iDrive controller knob and a cargo capacity of 17 cubic feet, with rear seats folding in a 40/20/40 split. Standard features included a power moonroof, with options for heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and remote start.

The 2024 Cadillac CT5 offered competitive passenger space, with more front headroom than some rivals and the most legroom in both rows. However, its 11.9 cubic feet of trunk space was the smallest in its class. The CT5 provided a good driving position, with adjustable front seats and a power tilt and telescoping steering column in higher trims. Heated and ventilated front seats were available, and the center console offered decent storage space. The CT5's interior design, while practical, lacked the premium feel expected in a luxury sedan.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series featured the advanced iDrive 8 system, with a 12.3-inch driver information display and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The system offered intuitive touch functionality, customizable widgets, and voice control through the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. Standard tech features included USB-C ports, Bluetooth, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a 10-speaker HiFi sound system. Optional upgrades included wireless device charging, a Harman Kardon surround sound system, and a wireless 5G hotspot.

The 2024 Cadillac CT5 came with a 10-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Technology Package that added a 12-inch digital instrument cluster and a head-up display. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large icons and a rotary controller for non-connectivity functions. However, the touchscreen was prone to glare, and the voice-recognition system lagged behind competitors. While lacking the flashy tech of some rivals, the CT5 offered practical everyday usability.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA, though the PHEV model was unrated. The 2022 model earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, missing the "Plus" distinction due to poor headlight ratings. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, LED headlights, and Active Guard. Optional packages added features like active blind spot detection, lane-departure warning, and semi-autonomous driving systems.

The 2024 Cadillac CT5 also received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Standard driver-assist features included forward-collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera system, and Super Cruise, GM's hands-free driver-assist system. Super Cruise offered confidence-inspiring handling and intuitive controls, setting it apart from competitors.