2021 Honda Civic vs Toyota Corolla

With the 2021 model year being one for the record books, Honda and Toyota are leading the charge with their in-demand vehicles. North Americans can choose from two of today's top sellers - Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla - to find a ride that meets all requirements. From sedan and hatchback body styles, to hybrid options along with high performance variants like Honda’s hot-hatch version of its popular Civic, there is sure be something for everyone!

Honda and Toyota are regarded as two of the top players in automotive manufacturing. Both have earned loyal customer bases who appreciate their dependable craftsmanship, long-lasting vehicles, value prices and low maintenance needs. Not surprisingly, these Japanese powerhouses are often put head to head for comparison - Honda's durable engines standing proudly against Toyota's renowned vehicle lifespans.

The Powertrain

The base model for the 2021 Honda Civic will have a turbocharged, 2.0-liter I4 engine. This goes for either the sedan or the hatchback variations. This engine is capable of producing 158 horsepower with 138 pound-feet of torque. Models equipped with this engine will get a 2-speed continuously-variable transmission, or CVT for short. All models and trim levels of the Civic have front-wheel drive.

Drivers have the choice between two high-powered engine options when selecting a higher trim level. The first is a turbocharged 1.5-liter I4, boasting 174 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque empowered by a CVT transmission; while Touring Sport hatchbacks gain an extra 6 horses with fine tuning combined with the option for manual six speed shifting capability - all resulting in 180 horse power under your control!

The Honda Civic offers an unforgettable driving experience. Whether you crave the reliability of a base model or demand exhilaration from power, it has something to suit every preference. The Type-R is perfect for adrenaline junkies; with its turbocharged engine producing 306 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque combined with its stock 6-speed manual transmission, this powerful beast will unleash your inner speed demon!

Driving the Type-R offers a powerful yet fuel efficient experience, with Honda claiming 28 mpg on highways and 22 MPG in cities. The base models offer an impressive combined rating of 33 mpg while 175hp Civics manage up to 36mpg; 180 hp versions achieve 32 miles per gallon - remarkable for such versatility!

As previously mentioned, Honda vehicles are reliable. In case something does go wrong, however, it's always good to know that a carmaker stands behind their products. Honda offers warranty coverage and roadside assistance for up to three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. The powertrain is covered under warranty for five years or 60,000 miles. These numbers are pretty much the industry standard for 2021.

Drivers of the 2021 Toyota Corolla have their pick of three powertrains guaranteed to make their journey smooth and efficient, no matter where it takes them. Opt for the 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine, boasting sixteen valves and dual overhead cams providing 139 horsepower with 126 pound feet torque in a combined fuel economy rating maximizing out at 33 miles per gallon - all accompanied by Toyota’s 2 speed CVT transmission system similar to that featured on Honda Civic's base model.

The Corolla and Civic share a key similarity: the front-wheel drivetrain, offered on all models. For those in search of increased acceleration capability, the Toyota reigns supreme with its 2.0 liter I4 engine producing 169 horses and 151 lbs.-ft for remarkable power – paired perfectly to two transmission options -10 speed automatic or 6 speed manual.

Unlike the Honda Civic, Toyota offers their Corolla with a hybrid powertrain. This setup features a 1.8-liter engine with variable-valve timing and dual overhead cams. It's rated at only 121 horsepower, but acceleration is still good, especially when the correct driving mode is selected. This Corolla has Normal, Power and ECO modes for different driving scenarios.

The Toyota Corolla may not offer the thrill of a sports car, but its power-assisted and ventilated brakes deliver reliable performance. It more than compensates for any lack in excitement with long lasting dependability – something that no other vehicle can match. Backed by one of the best warranties around, you won't have to worry about your ride letting you down anytime soon!

Drivability

When it comes to steering and handling, the Honda Civic wins out against the Toyota Corolla. Steering is tight, accurate and just feels great behind the wheel of any Civic. It gets even better with the sportier models and downright exhilarating in the Type-R. There's no contest when it comes to acceleration and overall speed, either. The Honda wins hands down.

The Toyota is competent in these areas, but it just feels good and never great. The Civic is simply more fun to drive. The Civic interior is modern yet simple. The seats are comfortable even at the starting trim levels. There's plenty of room up front or in back no matter which body style is chosen. It's also reasonably quiet inside of the Civic.

The Honda Civic is incredibly versatile! The sedan version offers up to 15.1 cubic-feet of trunk storage, while the hatchback models have an impressive 25.7 cubic feet capacity - and even more if you fold down the back seats for a whopping 46.2 cubes of total space!

The Corolla sedan may not have the trunk space of its hatchback counterpart, but it does offer 13.1 cubic-feet for storage and passengers alike can enjoy dual-zone climate control in all weather conditions. That said, if extra room is a must then you'll want to take a look at the Honda Civic which offers 17.8 cubic-feet behind its rear seats and even more flexible cargo options than what's available with the Corolla line up.

With the Honda and Toyota both offering comfortable seating with heating features, drivers can customize their experience to fit their needs. The driver's seat in a Toyota is adjustable up to six different ways while those opting for a Honda enjoy up to 8 unique positions. Front visibility also remains strong in either vehicle providing an enjoyable ride quality whenever you're behind the wheel!

Whether you're a fan of classic audio systems or crave the latest tech, Honda has something for everyone with its Civic lineup. Its base model comes equipped with 4 speakers and 5-inch display screen to get your music rolling - but if that's not enough, 8 and 10 speaker is optional depending on trim level! Plus multiple USB ports so you can keep all your devices charged up while listening in style. And don't forget about Apple CarPlay & Android Auto for those who need their digital life even when they hit the road.

The 2021 Civic and Corolla provide drivers with impeccable user experiences in the form of large touchscreen displays. The upper trim levels for both cars come equipped with full navigation systems, making journeys effortless to plot out. Drivers can also access infotainment controls easily from behind the wheel - allowing them a comfortable ride every time they hop on board!

Toyota and Honda both offer extraordinary audio experiences in their vehicles. With Toyota, you can enjoy a top of the line sound system comprised of 9 speakers from JBL with an accompanying subwoofer and amplifier. In addition to Bluetooth technology, USB port connectivity opens up charging possibilities directly through your vehicle's infotainment console. For enhanced media access on-the-go, try out Toyota’s Dynamic Navigation System – giving users extra control over where they go next!

Safety

The 2021 Honda Civic is packed with both active and passive safety features. Honda uses ACE body construction for added protection of all occupants in their vehicles. ACE is an abbreviation for Advanced Compatibility Engineering. This is Honda's own proprietary technology that uses a unique network of structures. The body and frame are designed to absorb energy from collisions and then to deflect it away from the driver and passengers.

The Civic also has an advanced airbag system up front. There are also side airbags for the front two seats. Side curtain airbags add protection and coverage for the rear passengers. These also have a sensor that detects rollovers. A seat-belt reminder makes sure that everyone is safely buckled in.

Honda uses a 3-point seat-belt system with automatic tensioning. They also employ the LATCH system, which stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children. This system allows for child safety seats to be securely fastened in place in the rear seats. Every Civic gets Anti-Lock Brakes and Electronic Brake Distribution.

The Civic has daytime running lamps to make the vehicle more visible. A rear-view camera helps with backing in or out of parking spaces. Brake Assist applies extra braking power when needed. Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control keeps everything nice and stable. Honda's Tire-Pressure Monitoring System ensures that the Civic will always have properly inflated tires.

The Toyota Corolla ensures a secure ride with the help of advanced safety technologies, such as the Pre-Collision Warning with Pedestrian Detection and Lane-Departure Alert. If drivers veer off their path unintentionally, Steering Assist will step in to get them back on track. With these features onboard every model, you can expect peace of mind behind every journey.

The Corolla keeps drivers informed and safe on the roads. Road-Sign Assist ensures no important information is missed, while Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control helps to maintain a securely distanced drive from vehicles ahead of you. Add in Automatic High Beams that activate when necessary for added security - driving just got easier!

While the Honda Civics have ACE construction, Toyota uses some similar engineering. Special frame pieces and crumple zones divert crash energy away from the occupants. Toyota also uses high-tensile-strength body panels in key locations. There are a total of 10 airbags to protect the driver and every passenger.

Just like the Honda, the Toyota has a Tire-Pressure Monitor and the LATCH system for child safety seats. There are also 3-point seat belts for every position. A Blind-Spot Monitor with rear Cross-Traffic Alert helps to keep the driver aware of their surroundings.

The IIHS has once again recognized the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla for their impressive safety features, awarding them both Top Safety Pick honors in 2021. Both mid-size sedans earned a "Good" rating across most of the evaluation categories conducted by the Institute – further cementing their reputation as two vehicles that prioritize driver protection above all else.

Which Has the Best Value?

Honda is gracing the roads once again with their iconic 2021 Civic lineup. With gearshift options ranging from the affordable and comfortable sedan to a high-powered, adrenaline inducing Type R – there's something for every driver in this collection of cars. Prices start at only $21,250 but don’t stop until you reach an impressive Limited Edition Type Rs - priced up to $43 995!

The starting price for a 2021 Toyota Corolla sedan is $20,025. Higher trim levels will be upwards of $28,000. Hatchbacks start at $20,665, and the hybrid model has a MSRP of $23,600. All of these can get more expensive with added features and optional packages, but as a general rule, the Toyota is cheaper.

The Honda Civic Type-R offers an exciting take on performance and power with its sport trim, but buying a Corolla could be the better long-term financial decision due to its fuel efficiency. Whether buyers are after thrills or savings, both cars have options that make them worth considering.

Which Is Better?

Honda and Toyota are two reliable choices when it comes to finding a great value vehicle. Not only do they offer competitive pricing, but both also come with extensive warranties that provide peace of mind in the event something should go wrong down the road. Additionally, due to their quality construction you can expect years of secure driving without having any major maintenance issues arise.

The 2021 Corolla is the economical choice - both in terms of its cost and environmental impact. It features a range of high-end amenities, including an impressive infotainment system, making it ideal for those wanting to save on gas costs without compromising comfort or quality.

The Toyota Corolla has long been a reliable stalwart on the roads, while Honda's Civic offers drivers an enhanced driving experience coupled with greater practicality. Though both vehicles are within similar price ranges, opting for the latter promises more excitement behind the wheel and additional storage capacity - making it unbeatable when value meets performance!