2024 BMW 5 Series vs 2025 Mazda MAZDA3

The 2024 BMW 5 Series was designed with a focus on aerodynamics and modern styling, presenting a clean and minimalist aesthetic both inside and out. The 530i test car featured a prominent shiny grille and intricate 21-inch wheels, with the M Sport bodywork adding a touch of flair, especially when paired with the Carbon Black paint. Inside, the M Sport treatment continued with Smoke-color Veganza artificial leather, aluminum trim, and artistic metal speaker grilles, contrasting with the otherwise black cabin. However, the interior surfaces often caused reflections and glare, complicating the use of controls. The BMW Curved Display housed most functions on a screen, with traditional iDrive controls on the center console, though these were touch-sensitive and could be frustrating to use. Despite these issues, the 530i M Sport exuded luxury, with advanced technology like the BMW Curved Display and iDrive 8.5 infotainment system.

In contrast, the 2025 Mazda MAZDA3 Hatchback boasted an organic shape with a long hood and tapered greenhouse, creating S-shaped reflections on its flanks. The Polymetal Gray paint over red leather gave it a striking appearance. The interior was driver-oriented, with a clean design and high-quality materials, though the gloss black plastic trim on the center console showed wear easily. The test vehicle featured classy metal speaker grilles, analog climate controls, and clear gauges. The Mazda 3 Hatchback came in various trims, with prices ranging from $25,150 to $37,150, excluding the destination charge. The 2.5 S Premium hatch, the only version with a manual transmission, was evaluated, featuring extra-cost paint, a rear bumper scratch guard, and a rear hatch spoiler, bringing the MSRP to $33,045 with destination.

The 2024 BMW 5 Series, specifically the 530i model, was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. A 48-volt mild-hybrid system enhanced efficiency, with BMW estimating a 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds. The engine was quiet and smooth, with an eight-speed automatic transmission providing nearly imperceptible shifts. The M Sport suspension offered a supple ride, and the car excelled on twisty roads, aided by variable-ratio sport steering and M Sport braking components. However, the driving experience felt remote and muted, akin to playing a video game. Fuel economy was below expectations, with the 530i M Sport returning 24.7 mpg on the evaluation loop and averaging 26.7 mpg during the test week.

The 2025 Mazda MAZDA3 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged version producing up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft with premium gas. The standard engine was smooth and refined, providing ample power. Most Mazda 3s featured a six-speed automatic transmission, but the Premium trim offered a six-speed manual gearbox. The manual was a delight to use, with the clutch requiring some acclimation. The Mazda 3 averaged 29.1 mpg on the evaluation loop, close to the EPA rating of 30 mpg. G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced handling and stability, though the torsion-beam rear suspension magnified road imperfections. Despite some road noise and steering-wheel rim concerns, the Mazda 3 provided an enjoyable driving experience.

The 2024 BMW 5 Series excelled as a luxury car, with a spacious interior and comfortable seating. The power-adjustable front seats were wrapped in perforated Veganza artificial leather, though ventilated seats were absent. The rear seat was equally comfortable, with ample legroom, headroom, and footroom. Interior storage was adequate, with a tray for smartphones, door armrests, and a small bin under the center armrest. The trunk offered 18.4 cubic feet of space, though a spare tire storage box reduced cargo room.

The 2025 Mazda MAZDA3 felt compact, with snug seating and limited stretch-out room. The seats were comfortable, with the test car's eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and red leather upholstery providing a perfect driving position. Forward visibility was excellent, but the design compromised rear visibility. The rear seat offered limited legroom and lacked air vents and USB ports. The Mazda 3's cargo space was practical, with 20.1 cubic feet behind the back seat, accommodating two full-size suitcases and additional carry-ons. The folding rear seat expanded cargo space, though Mazda did not provide a maximum measurement.

The 2024 BMW 5 Series featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system under a single curved display. The iDrive 8.5 system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, connected services, a personal eSIM 5G connection, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, navigation, and more. The Premium Package added a head-up display and Natural Interaction, allowing voice and gesture controls. However, the Intelligent Personal Assistant (IPA) voice control was inconsistent, and the Bowers and Wilkins surround-sound system did not meet expectations. The Premium Package also included Parking Assistant Plus and an interior camera.

The 2025 Mazda MAZDA3 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system, with an 8.8-inch or 10.25-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were accessible via touchscreen, but other functions required physical controls or voice recognition, which was unreliable. Alexa Built-in faced connectivity issues, and the native voice-recognition system struggled with commands. Apple CarPlay or Android Auto was recommended, with a USB-C cable needed for most versions. The test car's 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint audio system performed well. Other features included Wi-Fi hotspot access, mobile 911 emergency notification, and a one-year subscription to Mazda Connected Services.

The 2024 BMW 5 Series came with Active Driving Assistant, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Driving Assistant Professional Package added more advanced features, but the test car did not have it. The lane-departure warning system was sophisticated, issuing alerts only when necessary. The 5 Series earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS.

The 2025 Mazda MAZDA3 excelled in safety, earning a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and five stars in all NHTSA crash tests. Standard features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The test car had adaptive cruise control, but lane centering assist was unavailable. The lane departure warning system issued inaccurate alerts, but the adaptive cruise control system performed smoothly in traffic.