2021 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2021 Toyota Corolla

The 2021 Toyota Corolla, particularly in its 12th-generation form, was considered one of the most attractive iterations of the model. The SE and XSE trims enhanced its appeal with sport-design bumpers, a mesh grille insert, and 18-inch aluminum wheels. The Celestite metallic paint added a beautiful blue undertone, making the Corolla genuinely appealing. However, some design elements, like the hood shut line and the over-styled rear bumper, detracted from its overall aesthetic. The Corolla L, LE, or XLE offered a more subdued appearance, while the Corolla Hybrid provided an affordable path to better fuel efficiency. The Corolla SE and XSE, priced between $22,590 and $28,950, were the sportier versions with a more powerful engine and sportier styling. The interior of the Corolla XSE was a significant improvement over previous models, featuring soft leatherette, padded trim, and a minimalist design, though it lacked practical storage solutions.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3, following its 2019 redesign, was celebrated for its dramatic and sophisticated styling, earning accolades like the World Car Design of the Year. The sedan version was more conservative, while the hatchback, known as the Mazda3 Sport, had a more aggressive stance. The 2.5 Turbo model, available in both body styles, featured all-wheel drive and a base price starting at $34,881. The interior of the Mazda3 Turbo, with its white leather and high-contrast two-tone design, aimed to elevate the brand into premium territory. Despite the use of hard plastics, the design was driver-focused, with a seamless integration of the Mazda Connect infotainment system. The Mazda3 Turbo's interior was praised for its quality and attention to detail, making it a legitimate entry-luxury car.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla SE and XSE models were equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with a Dynamic Shift CVT, paddle shifters, and a Sport driving mode. The XSE's CVT was noted for its mechanical first gear, which improved initial acceleration. The Corolla's TNGA platform contributed to its low centre of gravity and enjoyable driving dynamics. Despite its modest power, the Corolla XSE offered predictable handling and was engaging enough for spirited driving. Fuel efficiency was rated at 7.0 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with real-world testing averaging 7.6 L/100 km.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 Turbo featured a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with 93-octane fuel. The engine was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and Mazda's i-Activ AWD system. The turbocharged powertrain added minimal weight but significantly improved performance, offering smooth and predictable acceleration. The Mazda3 Turbo's Sport mode enhanced driving dynamics, while the G-Vectoring Control Plus software improved cornering. The car's steering and suspension were tuned for maximum driving pleasure, and the brakes were shared with non-turbo models. Despite its performance capabilities, the Mazda3 Turbo averaged 11.5 litres per 100 kilometres during testing, higher than the estimated 8.8 L/100 km.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla XSE offered several interior upgrades, including SofTex leatherette seats, heated front and rear seats, and an eight-way power driver's seat. The front passenger seat lacked height adjustment, but the rear seats provided good support. However, rear headroom and legroom were tight, and there were no climate control vents for rear passengers. The Corolla sedan's trunk offered 371 litres of cargo space, while the hatchback provided 660 litres.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 2.5 Turbo featured a leather-lined interior with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The driver's seat offered 10-way power adjustment, but the front passenger seat lacked similar features. Rear-seat accommodations were cramped, with no air conditioning vents or USB charging ports. In-cabin storage was adequate, and the sedan's trunk offered 374 litres of space. The hatchback version provided 569 litres behind the rear seats and 1,334 litres with them folded down.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla came standard with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth. The SE trim featured an 8-inch touchscreen, while the XSE added Service Connect and Safety Connect. Remote Connect was free for a year, offering features like remote engine starting and vehicle finder. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical knobs and buttons for easy navigation.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system with an 8.8-inch display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. However, the lack of a touchscreen and poor voice-recognition technology were drawbacks. The system was paired with a 12-speaker Bose audio system, which offered good sound quality. The Premium Package included a head-up display, which remained visible with polarized sunglasses.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and more. The Corolla earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The addition of rear side-impact airbags required re-testing for 2021.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3's safety philosophy focused on supporting the driver. Its ADAS included adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and an Adaptive Front Lighting System. The Premium Package added features like a surround-view camera and Traffic Jam Assist. The Mazda3 received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.