2023 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

CarGurus experts rate the 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 9 out of 10 and the 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 10 out of 10 for look and feel.

The seventh generation of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class debuted in 2021, showcasing a range of trims including the S 500, S 580, Maybach S 580, and Maybach S 680. The S 580e, a plug-in hybrid with 4Matic all-wheel drive, represents the company's foray into electrification for its luxury sedan. The S-Class boasts a sophisticated exterior with clean lines, optional high-gloss black trim, and 20-inch AMG wheels. The interior offers a choice of sumptuous leather upholstery in various colors, a panoramic sunroof, and impeccable fit and finish.

The Mazda3 features a striking design with rakish headlights and a large grille, available in sedan and hatchback body styles. The hatchback, in particular, showcases a futuristic design with clean lines. The interior boasts a clean and modern layout, with a user-friendly infotainment system and conventional shifter design. Trim levels offer a range of features, from 16-inch alloy wheels to a 12-speaker Bose premium stereo system.

CarGurus experts rate both the 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 9 out of 10 for performance.

The S 580e pairs a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six cylinder engine with a 28.6-kWh battery and an electric motor, providing 56 miles of all-electric range. The hybrid powertrain delivers 510 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, offering impressive acceleration and a smooth driving experience. The S-Class excels in comfort and luxury, with an air suspension that provides a cloud-like ride and advanced driving modes for a tailored driving experience.

The Mazda3 offers a choice of engines, including a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four and an optional turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder. The turbo engine delivers 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, providing engaging performance and well-weighted steering. The Mazda3's handling strikes a balance of precision and refinement, offering a rewarding driving experience.

CarGurus experts rate the 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 8 out of 10 and the 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 8 out of 10 for form and function.

The S-Class impresses with a wealth of standard features, including massaging seats, heated and ventilated elements, ambient lighting, and advanced wellness programs. However, the cargo space in the plug-in hybrid model is relatively limited at 8.1 cubic feet, emphasizing luxury over practicality.

The Mazda3 sedan provides 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space, while the hatchback offers 20.1 cubic feet. However, the rear seating area may be cramped for taller passengers, and the C-pillar design creates significant blind spots.

CarGurus experts rate the 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 9 out of 10 and the 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 5 out of 10 for technology.

The S-Class features a reconfigurable 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen center display with the latest MBUX infotainment system. It offers advanced features such as augmented reality navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a variety of entertainment options.

The Mazda3 comes with an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated via a dial, which has been criticized for its cumbersome navigation and limited functionality. The system also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but its user interface may present challenges for some users.

CarGurus experts rate the 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 9 out of 10 and the 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 8 out of 10 for safety.

The S-Class offers a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance features, including hands-on highway driver-assist, crosswind assist, and speed limit assist. It also incorporates standard safety features such as lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.

The Mazda3 comes standard with a range of safety features, including forward automatic emergency braking, adaptive headlights, and traffic-sign recognition. However, the design of the C-pillar creates significant blind spots, and the infotainment system's layout may pose distractions.