2025 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2024 Cadillac CT5

The 2024 Cadillac CT5, a successor to the Cadillac CTS, presented a more restrained design compared to its predecessor. While it lacked the excessive chrome and geometric surfacing of the CTS, the CT5 maintained a distinctive and confident front fascia. Its stretched wheelbase and slightly fastback silhouette gave it a stately appearance, setting it apart from the smaller CT4. Despite being older than some competitors, the CT5's design remained contemporary, offering a cleaner look than the newly redesigned German sedans. The trim levels ranged from the base Luxury to the performance-oriented CT5-V Blackwing, with the Sport model featuring boy-racer styling elements. Inside, the CT5's interior seemed a mix of various car influences, with surfaces that didn't blend well. Despite optional luxury features like massaging seats and semi-aniline leather, the cabin still appeared somewhat cheap.

The 2025 Mazda MAZDA3 Hatchback showcased an organically shaped design with a long hood and a tapered greenhouse, creating S-shaped reflections on its flanks. Depending on the light, it could appear odd, but it was well-suited for dynamic driving. The test car's Polymetal Gray paint over red leather looked striking, and the interior was driver-oriented with a calming atmosphere. Materials quality was top-notch for its segment, though the gloss black plastic trim showed wear easily. The Mazda 3 came in various trims, with the 2.5 S Premium hatch being the only one available with a manual transmission. The test car featured extra-cost paint and a rear hatch spoiler, bringing its MSRP to $33,045. The interior was snug but comfortable, with excellent forward visibility, though rear-seat legroom was tight, and cargo space was practical but not generous.

The 2024 Cadillac CT5 offered multiple 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 came with a mandatory 10-speed automatic transmission, with the choice of rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. The CT5-V variant featured a tuned twin-turbo V6 with 360 hp, while the high-performance CT5-V Blackwing boasted a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 producing 668 hp and 659 lb-ft, available with a six-speed manual transmission. The CT5 Premium Luxury test car, equipped with AWD and the twin-turbo V6, offered a 0-60 mph time of 5.1 seconds. It provided a sporty yet comfortable ride, with low interior noise and a pleasant exhaust growl at full throttle.

The 2025 Mazda MAZDA3 2.5 S models were powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. The Turbo models offered a turbocharged version with 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium gas, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular fuel. Most Mazda 3s featured a six-speed automatic transmission, but the Premium trim offered a six-speed manual gearbox. The manual version achieved an average of 29.1 mpg during testing. The Mazda 3's clutch required some acclimation, but shifting was effortless, and the engine provided smooth power across a broad rev range. The car's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced handling and stability, though the torsion-beam rear suspension magnified road imperfections. Despite some road noise at highway speeds, the Mazda 3 delivered an enjoyable driving experience.

The 2024 Cadillac CT5 offered comparable passenger space to its rivals, with more front headroom than the Audi A6 and outgoing Mercedes E-Class, and nearly the same as the BMW 5 Series. However, second-row headroom was the worst in the group, though it provided the most legroom in both rows. The CT5's trunk space was limited to 11.9 cubic feet. The driving position was well-suited for a sporty sedan, with adjustable front seats and a power tilt and telescoping steering column in higher trims. The center console was efficiently designed, offering decent storage space and a wireless phone charger.

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

The 2024 Cadillac CT5 featured a standard 10-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The Technology Package added a 12-inch digital instrument cluster and a head-up display. Standard features included three USB ports and wireless phone charging, with an optional 15-speaker Bose audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large icons and a smartphone-like feel, though the touchscreen was prone to glare. While lacking the flashy tech of some competitors, the CT5 prioritized everyday usability.

The 2025 Mazda MAZDA3 stuck with its Mazda Connect infotainment system, offering an 8.8-inch or 10.25-inch display. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto could be used via touchscreen, other functions required physical controls or voice recognition. Alexa Built-in faced connectivity issues during testing, and the native voice-recognition system struggled with commands. The Mazda 3 was more satisfying with Apple CarPlay, and the test car's 12-speaker Bose audio system delivered excellent sound. Additional features included Wi-Fi hotspot access and a one-year subscription to Mazda Connected Services.

The 2024 Cadillac CT5 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in frontal, side, and rollover crash tests. Standard driver-assist features included forward-collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system. Premium Luxury and Sport models could be equipped with Super Cruise, GM's hands-free driver-assist system, offering confidence-inspiring handling.

The 2025 Mazda MAZDA3 earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and five stars in all NHTSA crash tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The test car's adaptive cruise control reacted smoothly in traffic, though lane departure warnings were occasionally inaccurate. The head-up display showed blind spot warnings, and the automatic high-beam headlights enhanced safety in dark areas.