2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid vs 2023 BMW 3 Series

The 2023 BMW 3 Series, a staple of the Bavarian brand since 1975, underwent a mid-cycle refresh for its seventh-generation model. This refresh maintained the sporty essence of the 3 Series with subtle exterior design tweaks, such as a narrow kidney grille and redesigned full-LED headlights with inverted L-shaped daytime running lights. The front fascia's lower air intakes were reshaped, leading to flared rear-wheel arches, creating a striking first impression. New paint options like Skyscraper Grey and Brooklyn Grey metallic were introduced, and the M Sport package added chrome grille accents and a larger rear diffuser. Inside, the 3 Series featured the advanced BMW iDrive 8 system with a 27.2-inch Curved Display, offering a driver-centric cockpit with fewer buttons and a minimalist dashboard design.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid received notable updates, including a new all-wheel-drive option for most trims and a power increase for its hybrid system. The exterior design was attractively styled, with sculpted front-end features like wraparound headlights and a trapezoidal grille adding sporty character. However, the side and tail design remained more conventional. Inside, the Corolla Hybrid's simplicity was pleasing, though materials quality was lacking, with hard plastics and barely padded armrests. The XSE trim added SofTex synthetic leather, but the overall feel was less substantial compared to competitors. The Corolla Hybrid prioritized efficiency and affordability, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series retained its powertrains from previous years, featuring a twin-turbo 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine for the 330i and 330e, and a twin-turbo 3.0-litre inline-six for the M340i. The 330i produced 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds. The 330e, with its electric motor, offered a combined output of 288 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a 35-kilometre electric-only range. The M340i, with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivered 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, reaching 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. Fuel economy varied slightly, with the 330i xDrive rated at 9.8 L/100 km city and 8.6 combined, while the 330e achieved 8.8 L/100 km gas-only and 3.2 Le/100 km combined in electric mode. The M340i had a combined rating of 9.0 L/100 km.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid featured a 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine with hybrid drive, producing 134 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque, an increase over its predecessor. A CVT sent power to front-wheel drive, with an additional 40-hp electric motor providing on-demand AWD. The hybrid powertrain responded quickly from a standstill, but power built slowly, taking around nine seconds to reach 100 km/h. The engine's loud drone during acceleration affected driver confidence. The Corolla Hybrid offered a dedicated EV drive mode for maximum efficiency, though it was challenging to maintain on open roads. Braking was consistent, and handling was adequate for conservative driving, but larger road imperfections impacted cabin comfort.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series offered a compact yet comfortable interior, with front headroom of 982 millimetres and legroom of 1,066 millimetres. Rear occupants had 955 mm of headroom and 894 mm of legroom, providing ample space for average-sized adults. Standard SensaTec faux leather upholstery and power-adjustable front sport seats offered support, though the seat bottom cushion was stiff. The 3 Series featured a 481-litre cargo space, with rear seats folding in a 40/20/40-split for larger items. Standard features included a power moonroof, heated front seats, and remote start, with optional heated steering wheel and keyless entry.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid provided ample front space, though long-limbed drivers might find the steering wheel's reach limited. The cabin's simplicity was approachable, with well-placed steering-wheel buttons and basic climate controls. Interior storage was adequate, with a small tray, cupholders, and a medium-sized centre armrest bin. Rear seats accommodated average adults, with just enough headroom and legroom. The trunk offered 371 litres of capacity, with rear seats folding for more space, though not flat with the floor.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series featured the advanced BMW iDrive 8 system, with a 12.3-inch driver information display and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The system was intuitive, with customizable widgets and natural voice commands via the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. Standard tech included USB-C ports, Bluetooth, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a 10-speaker audio system. Optional features included wireless charging, a premium Harman Kardon sound system, and a 5G hotspot.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid came with an 8-inch multimedia touchscreen, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The system was quick to respond, with improved voice commands activated by saying "Hey Toyota." Over-the-air updates kept the system current, and it could pair two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. However, the JBL audio system available in the U.S. was not offered in Canada.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA, though the PHEV model was not rated. The 2022 model earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. Standard safety features included a rear view camera, LED headlights, and Active Guard. Additional safety features were available in packages, including active blind spot detection, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for rollover protection. The 2022 Corolla sedan was a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. Standard safety features included Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, with frontal collision warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and a blind-spot monitor.