2023 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2024 Subaru Impreza

The 2023 Mazda3 featured rakish headlights framing a large, menacing grille, available in both sedan and hatchback body styles. While the sedan had conventional proportions, the hatchback boasted a daring and futuristic design, with rear angles curving up around the rear window and doors. This clean, forward-thinking design extended into the cabin, where simplicity and an organically rising infotainment system created a stylish and functional interior. The conventional shifter design and easy-to-use climate controls added to the user-friendly experience, though the steering wheel was somewhat cluttered with controls.

In contrast, the 2024 Subaru Impreza showcased a more aggressive and sporty style compared to its predecessor. The larger, more angular grille and narrower LED headlights gave it a serious look, while the RS trim added side skirts for a low-slung appearance. The rear haunches and flared fenders suggested a wider, more athletic stance. Inside, the Impreza featured a modern look with a vertical 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen on the Sport and RS trims, while the Base model had two 7-inch displays. The RS trim also included racy red stitching and red seat upholstery accents, with commendable materials quality throughout the cabin.

The 2023 Mazda3 came with a base 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four engine, producing 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive (AWD). A manual transmission was also available on front-wheel drive (FWD) Premium models. The optional turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivered 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular fuel, or 250 hp and 320 lb-ft with premium fuel, with AWD and automatic transmission as standard. The turbo engine provided a fantastic sound and engaging driving experience, with well-weighted steering and excellent handling. Sport mode enhanced the driving dynamics, making the Mazda3 agile and responsive, while maintaining a comfortable ride.

The 2024 Subaru Impreza offered two engine choices: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque for the Base and Sport trims, and a 2.5-liter engine with 182 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque for the RS model. Both engines were paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard AWD. The RS model, with its sport-tuned suspension, provided responsive handling and confident cornering, while maintaining a comfortable ride over rough surfaces. The added sound insulation reduced road noise, making long-distance drives more pleasant. The Impreza's AWD system gave it a traction advantage, especially in spirited driving scenarios.

The 2023 Mazda3 sedan offered 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space, while the hatchback provided 20.1 cubic feet. However, the rear seating area was cramped, with limited legroom and headroom, making it suitable primarily for front-seat use. The front seating area featured a decently sized center console compartment, though the lid's design was somewhat frustrating. The Mazda3's ergonomics and cupholders were helpful, but overall, the rear seats were best used in a pinch.

The 2024 Subaru Impreza's front-seat passengers enjoyed a spacious cabin with logically placed controls and excellent outward visibility. The rear seats were more accommodating than expected, with ample headroom and legroom for six-footers. The cargo area offered 20.4 cubic feet of space, expandable to 56 cubic feet with the seatbacks folded down, though they didn't lie flat. The Impreza also accepted various roof racks for outdoor gear, with handy flat sections in the door jambs for easier roof access. The RS trim included a wireless charging pad and a large center armrest bin for personal items.

The 2023 Mazda3 came with an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated via a dial in the center console, which was a major weak spot due to its clumsy menu navigation and lack of touchscreen functionality. The standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration were confusing to use, and the learning curve was steep. The Mazda3 included two USB ports, HD radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice control, with available upgrades like navigation, satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Bose premium stereo system.

The 2024 Subaru Impreza featured a large 11.6-inch touchscreen on the Sport and RS trims, with easy-to-use on-screen buttons and physical knobs for volume, tuning, and temperature controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless connectivity on the Sport and RS trims. The Impreza's infotainment system was intuitive and user-friendly, with smartly organized menus and no need for the owner's manual for advanced features. The Starlink system on the Sport and RS trims included a Wi-Fi hotspot and smartphone app integration.

The 2023 Mazda3 came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward automatic emergency braking, automatic cruise control, pedestrian and cyclist detection, adaptive headlights, lane-departure warning, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Higher trims added features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, traffic-sign recognition, traffic jam assist, and a 360-degree parking camera system. However, the massive C-pillar created a significant blind spot, and the confusing infotainment system posed a safety issue.

The 2024 Subaru Impreza included the EyeSight driver assist suite with frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and lane-centering. The Sport model added Starlink communications features, while the RS trim included a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency steering. These safety features performed well, with no false alarms or intrusive actions, and the adaptive cruise control maintained a consistent gap smoothly.