2021 Toyota Corolla vs Mazda3

Car enthusiasts have a wealth of options when it comes to sporty compact cars and this year there are two leaders: the 2021 Toyota Corolla and the Mazda 3. The Corolla offers rear-side airbags as standard across all models with an exclusive Apex Edition available for those looking for something extra special – like unique exterior features or even manual transmission! As for Mazda, their updates come in terms of power where higher trims get more horsepower plus sunroofs included on mid-level Preferred models.

Choosing between the Corolla and Mazda 3 can be a difficult decision, since each vehicle offers its own unique advantages. Although both come with generous array of standard features, they vary significantly in terms of performance capabilities - from engine power to cargo space - making it essential for buyers to evaluate their options carefully so that they get precisely what fits into their lifestyle best.

The Powertrain

The Corolla offers two different engine options, a 1.8L four-cylinder with 139 horsepower and the 2.0L four-cylinder that generates 169 horses - available in SE or XSE sedan models only! Meanwhile, Mazda 3 has unleashed three strikingly powerful engines - from the base version’s naturally aspirated 2.0L capable of 155 hp up to its turbocharged 250 horse powerhouse burning through premium fuel for maximum output at 320 lb-ft torque! Whether you select automatic on most trims or manual exclusive on Premium hatchbacks – it's clear that your speed will be off the charts either way.

The Toyota Corolla has something for everyone! With multiple engine and transmission options, it can deliver unbeatable fuel efficiency of up to 40mpg highway. Hatchback models come with either Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) or six speed manual gearbox - both providing exceptional savings at the gas station. The standard model boasts front wheel drive while a unique AWD option is available in Mazda 3 if you're after more power on the roads. For an economy car that packs a punch, look no further than the trusty Corolla.

JD Power’s 2021 Vehicle Dependability Study rated the new Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3, giving each model an ‘average' score. The Corolla fell just one point shy of 'great,' receiving a remarkable 80 out of 100; however, the Mazda 3 lagged behind with 74 points. Despite these differences in reliability performance, both models come equipped with typical industry warranties that cover 36 months or 36,000 miles for bumper-to-bumper issues as well as five years/60k mile powertrain concerns - keeping customers covered no matter which car they choose.

Drivability

The Corolla is balanced as far as handling goes. When it comes to comfort, the sedan does a better job than the hatchback of absorbing impacts from the road. While the standard engine is adequate and the turbocharged one offers strong acceleration, no one would accuse the Corolla of being terribly fun to drive. Minimal road noise will make its way into the cabin.

At the same time, the Mazda 3 leads the compact car class when it comes to driving dynamics. The steering is responsive and offers just the right amount of feedback from the road. This compact car corners beautifully in both its sedan and hatchback forms. Like the Corolla, the Mazda 3 isolates its cabin from wind and road noise quite well.

The Corolla does a relatively good job of providing passenger space in its backseat. That said, taller people will find it a bit cramped. The front seats of the Corolla are more generous, although rivals offer more space and support. Cloth upholstery is standard, and a variety of upgrades are available on higher trims. Buyers can get things power adjustment for the driver and heated front seats.

One of the rivals who offers more space is the Mazda 3, which has plenty of head and legroom in its front row. Once again, however, the backseat is tight. The materials in the Mazda 3 are upscale and include multiple soft surfaces. Genuine leather upholstery and heated front seats are available for higher trim levels.

When it comes to trunk space, the Corolla sedan falls short when compared with its hatchback counterpart and competitors. With only 13.1 cubic feet of cargo area in sedans, loading longer items is a challenge for drivers who want practicality out of their vehicle choice. The Mazda 3 does offer more room than the Sedan but lags behind that offered by the Corolla's Hatchback model which includes up to 23.3 cubic feet - giving drivers plenty of storage options.

Toyota puts the Entune infotainment system in the 2021 Corolla. It now includes Android Auto on top of Apple CarPlay. The standard touchscreen size is 7-inches, although an 8-inch option is also available. Select Corolla models also have a 7-inch digital driver information display, HD radio, and navigation system. The standard stereo comes with six speakers. Music lovers can upgrade to a nine-speaker JBL system instead.

The Mazda 3 boasts a significantly larger touchscreen and more powerful stereo system than the 2021 Corolla, yet lacks certain modern amenities. Drivers looking for up-to-date tech won't find standard Android Auto or Apple CarPlay capabilities on the base model, nor built in Wi-Fi hotspot connection or Amazon Alexa compatibility – all of which come as part of Toyota's package this year.

Safety

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has bestowed two of the highest honors on Toyota's 2021 Corolla and Mazda 3! Both vehicles earned a Top Safety Pick or better, achieving perfect scores in all six categories that were tested. In addition, results from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration testing showed both cars earning five stars across frontal impacts and side collisions as well as four stars during rollover tests - solidifying their position as models of premier safety performance.

When it comes to standard safety features, the Corolla has a more impressive list. It has a forward-collision warning, lane trace assist, traffic sign recognition, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. Both automatic high beams and adaptive cruise control, popular features for reducing driver strain, come standard as well. Available on select trims of the 2021 Corolla are extras such as adaptive headlights, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.

The 2021 Mazda 3 is an impressive vehicle, boasting features like rain-sensing windshield wipers and automatic high beam - offering a safe ride in any weather. Drivers can also benefit from advanced safety systems such as lane departure warning, driver attention monitoring and blind spot detection. Moreover, the Mazda3 takes it even further with optional adaptive headlights to recognize more than just traffic signs – plus a surround view camera system for optimal visibility all around you.

Which Has the Best Value?

The Corolla lineup offers something for every buyer. Those looking to stick to a budget can opt for the entry-level sedan, which starts at an accessible $20,025; meanwhile those who prioritize style and power may prefer the top-of-the line XSE that provides plenty of bang for your buck at only $23,615. The Mazda 3 also delivers value with its hatchback model starting just over $22k. With so many options available there's never been a better time take home one of these popular rides.

When it comes to entry-level sedans, the financial decision isn't always a straightforward one. To help you decide which vehicle packs more value for your buck over five years, analyzing cost of ownership is key. Take into account all expenses - from fuel and insurance costs to repair bills - when making this important choice.

Are you in the market for a new sedan? The 2021 Corolla is an economical choice that'll cost drivers approximately $17,220 out of pocket over five years. Though this includes maintenance and repairs plus fuel expenses, depreciation still considerably lowers its value to nearly $11,292. That brings your total estimated cost-to-own up to just under thirty grand at roughly $0.38 per mile.

The Mazda 3 sedans come with slightly higher initial payments ($18,164) due in part to their superior fuel efficiency; however they too are subject to considerable depreciation meaning those costs can add up quickly - resulting in around twenty nine thousand dollars or almost forty cents from every traveled mile.

The Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3 deliver two distinct driving experiences for those willing to pay a premium. While the Corolla offers an abundance of driver aids, tech features, and other amenities in exchange for its price tag; the entry-level Mazda 3 entices with raw power and luxury touches throughout its cabin . Whether either car is worth it ultimately depends on one's individual needs - as both vehicles cost approximately equal when taking all expenses into account.

Which is Better?

The 2021 Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3 are both great vehicles for small families. While the former offers plenty of standard safety features and impressive fuel efficiency, those looking to experience a bit more thrill on their roads will find that the latter comes with three efficient engine options including an invigorating turbocharged one. Additionally, its driving dynamics make it even harder to resist as there is also an all-wheel drive option available! So go forth - dare yourself outside your comfort zone in search of heart-pounding excitement behind the wheel this year.