2021 Honda Civic vs 2022 Mazda MAZDA3

The 2021 Honda Civic continued the tradition of being a segment-defining vehicle, following in the footsteps of its predecessors from 1973, 1984, 1992, 2006, and 2016. This model was available in sedan, hatchback, and performance-tuned Type R formats, though the coupe was discontinued. The Civic sedan came in LX, EX, Sport, and Touring trims, with prices ranging from $23,400 to $31,331 CAD, including fees. The Touring trim, with its Cosmic Blue Metallic paint, was particularly striking, though opinions on its styling varied. Inside, the Civic offered quality materials and a design that, while not as dramatic as when first introduced, still impressed with its thoughtful detailing. However, the infotainment screen size was limited to 7 inches, reflecting its age.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3, available in sedan and hatchback forms, offered a range of engine and powertrain configurations, including a six-speed manual transmission for Canadian buyers. Prices ranged from $21,400 to $38,981 CAD, including destination charges. The top-of-the-line hatchback with a turbo engine and Polymetal Gray Metallic paint was a standout. The Mazda3's design was not universally appealing, with its sculpted flanks and hatchback shape, but it exuded a mature and serious aesthetic. Inside, the Mazda3 impressed with refined materials and a sophisticated design, offering an upscale driving experience. The car's stealthy appearance and quality made it an attractive choice for those seeking more value than an entry-level luxury car.

The 2021 Honda Civic offered a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque in its LX, EX, and Sport trims, paired with a CVT driving the front wheels. The turbocharged 1.5-litre engine, standard in the Touring trim, delivered 174 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power. The Civic's ride and handling were praised, especially with the Touring trim's 18-inch wheels. However, the CVT was criticized for its droning and ineffective paddle shifters. Despite this, the Civic achieved impressive fuel economy, averaging 6.8 L/100 km on a 225-km loop, outperforming its estimated 7.1 L/100 km.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a base 2.0-litre engine with 155 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque, focusing on fuel economy with a consumption of 7.6 L/100 km. Most buyers opted for the 2.5-litre engine with 186 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, available with FWD or AWD. The turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, with 227 hp on 87-octane fuel or 250 hp on 93-octane, provided a thrilling driving experience. However, it fell short of its advertised fuel efficiency, averaging 10.2 L/100 km. The Mazda3 excelled in handling, with smooth power delivery, nimble handling, and excellent balance. The brakes, though, showed signs of fade during intense driving.

The 2021 Honda Civic sedan sat low to the ground, making entry and exit a bit of a workout. Inside, the driver's seat offered eight-way power adjustment, but the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment. Leather upholstery was standard in the Touring trim. The Civic's interior was spacious, comparable to a decade-old midsize car, with excellent rear seat comfort. The centre console provided ample storage, and the trunk offered 428 litres of space, reduced to 416 litres in the Touring trim due to the premium sound system.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 also sat low, with small door openings complicating entry and exit. The interior was driver-focused, with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated front seats standard in Canada. The back seat was less accommodating for taller passengers, lacking rear air vents and USB ports. Storage was adequate, with large door bins and a sizable centre console bin. The hatchback offered 569 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,334 litres with the rear seats folded. The sedan's trunk held 374 litres.

The 2021 Honda Civic's technology showed its age, with a standard 5-inch LCD screen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Touring trim upgraded to a 7-inch touchscreen, a 10-speaker audio system, and navigation. The voice recognition system was unsophisticated, and the premium sound system was a nice addition, though the eight-speaker setup sufficed.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system with an 8.8-inch display, controlled via the centre console. Mazda eschewed touchscreens, believing them distracting. The system's voice recognition required specific commands, which could be frustrating. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, offering a workaround. Mazda Connected Services provided remote access and emergency notifications. An eight-speaker audio system was standard, with a 12-speaker Bose system available.

The 2021 Honda Civic came equipped with Honda Sensing, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. LaneWatch, available from the EX trim, monitored the right lane but had limitations. The Civic earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, making it a safe choice.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 offered blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard, with other features available as options. GT grades added adaptive headlights and a surround-view camera. The Mazda3's driver-assist features were reliable, and it received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.