2022 Audi A4 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 offered a range of trims, including the sporty SE and XSE, which featured a more powerful engine and sportier styling. The interior of the XSE was a significant improvement over previous models, with high-quality materials and a minimalist design, although practical storage was somewhat lacking.

In contrast, the 2022 Audi A4 presented a simple, clean, and conservative appearance, serving as an excellent canvas for its Tango Red paint and Black Edition package. The A4's interior mirrored this aesthetic restraint, with high-quality materials and a well-integrated design. The cabin featured a 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit digital instrumentation panel and ambient interior lighting, although the tablet-style touchscreen infotainment system seemed somewhat out of place. Despite this, the A4's interior was comfortable and well-appointed, with a focus on driver comfort and intuitive controls.

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 XSE test car featured a Dynamic Shift CVT, which used a mechanical first gear to improve initial acceleration. The Corolla's TNGA platform contributed to its enjoyable driving dynamics, with electric steering, vented front brakes, and a MacPherson strut front suspension. While not a sport sedan, the Corolla XSE offered predictable handling and sufficient power for an engaging driving experience. Fuel efficiency was commendable, with an average of 7.6 L/100 km during testing.

The 2022 Audi A4 offered two engine options: the 40 TFSI with 201 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, and the 45 TFSI with 261 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The A4 45 TFSI test car featured a seven-speed S-tronic DCT and Quattro Ultra AWD system, achieving 100 km/h in approximately 5.4 seconds. The A4's driving experience was refined, with a solid punch of torque and engaging paddle shifters. The car's brakes performed admirably, and the suspension provided a rock-solid sensation over various road conditions. The A4's fuel efficiency averaged 9.5 L/100 km during testing.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla XSE offered numerous interior upgrades, including SofTex leatherette seats, heated rear seats, and an eight-way power driver's seat. The front passenger seat lacked height adjustment, but the overall seating comfort was commendable. The rear seats provided good support, although headroom and legroom were somewhat limited. The Corolla's trunk offered 371 litres of cargo space, with no interior handle for closing the lid.

The 2022 Audi A4's interior was comfortable, with soft leather seats, power adjustment, and a thigh-support cushion. The A4 featured a three-zone automatic climate control system and intuitive switchgear. The rear seats were supportive but offered limited legroom, and the centre console storage was restricted due to the wireless charging pad. The A4's 340-litre cargo space was well-finished, with enclosed hinges and storage nets, and the trunk lid featured grab handles for easy closing.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla came standard with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth, along with a free year of Safety Connect services. The XSE trim included an 8-inch touchscreen, SiriusXM functionality, and navigation. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical knobs and buttons for easy access to various functions.

The 2022 Audi A4 featured the MIB3 version of Audi MMI, with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display. The system supported common smartphone functions and offered acoustic feedback. The A4 included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system. The MMI was intuitive, with separate climate controls and a knob for stereo volume adjustment. The voice recognition technology was accurate but slow to respond.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The Corolla also featured rear side-impact airbags and a blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert. The 2020 model received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Audi A4 offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Audi Pre Sense, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The A4's driver assistance tech was effective, although the adaptive cruise control occasionally required driver intervention. The A4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.