2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid vs 2024 Mazda MAZDA3

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid received significant updates, including a new all-wheel-drive option standard on all trims except the base LE. The hybrid system saw a power increase, and the Corolla Hybrids underwent a subtle style refresh with changes to the grille patterns and rear bumpers. The exterior design was more appealing than previous generations, with a sculpted front end featuring wraparound headlights and sharp creases for a sporty look. The interior was minimalistic, with a focus on simplicity, though the materials used were not of the highest quality, with an abundance of hard plastics. The XSE trim added SofTex synthetic leather, but the overall feel was less substantial compared to competitors like the Honda Civic and Mazda3.

The 2024 Mazda MAZDA3, despite being last redesigned in 2019, maintained a modern and luxurious appearance. Its swooping lines and scalloped bodywork made it comparable to luxury vehicles. The front featured squinting headlights with LED turn signals and stylish round lighting elements, adding to its dramatic design. Available in both sedan and hatchback body styles, the Mazda3 offered a range of trims, with the hatchback providing more storage space and powertrain configurations. The interior was beautifully designed, with an impressive red leather option and high-quality materials throughout. The Mazda3's design and execution were more refined and luxurious compared to the Corolla Hybrid.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid was powered by a 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine with hybrid drive, producing 134 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque. This was an increase from the previous model, and the power was delivered through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to the front wheels. The LE-trim test vehicle featured an additional 40-hp electric motor for 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 dedicated EV drive mode was challenging to maintain, and the braking system was consistent and easy to modulate. Handling was adequate, though not particularly fun, and road noise was present but not intrusive.

The 2024 Mazda MAZDA3 offered two engine options: a standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, and an optional turbocharged 2.5-litre engine with 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. The turbocharged engine was available with AWD, and a six-speed manual transmission was offered on the Sport GT with FWD. The Mazda3 excelled in driving scenarios, with the turbo engine providing a delightful experience. Fuel economy varied depending on the configuration, with the turbocharged powertrain offering 10.1 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 7.5 on the highway. The Mazda3 handled corners well, with tight and precise steering, and minimal body roll during normal driving.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid offered ample space for taller occupants in the front, though the steering wheel's limited telescoping range could be an issue for long-limbed drivers. The cabin's simplicity was approachable, with well-placed steering-wheel buttons and basic climate controls. Interior storage was adequate, with a small tray for phones, cupholders, and narrow door pockets. Rear seats accommodated average adults, but headroom was limited. The trunk capacity was 371 litres, with rear seats folding for additional space, though not flat with the floor.

The 2024 Mazda MAZDA3, while beautiful, was less practical in terms of space. The hatchback offered 569 litres of cargo space, competitive with some rivals but less than the Honda Civic Hatchback. Rear passenger space was limited, with tight legroom and headroom. The sedan's trunk space was 374 litres, with similarly tight rear quarters. The Mazda3's design created a significant blind spot at the C-pillar, affecting rearward visibility.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid featured an 8-inch multimedia touchscreen with upgrades for 2023, including on-screen controls and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The system was quick to respond, with improved voice commands and over-the-air software updates. It could pair two Bluetooth devices simultaneously, though the JBL audio system was not available in Canada.

The 2024 Mazda MAZDA3 used a rotary controller for its infotainment system, which some found safer than a touchscreen. The system required some getting used to but was better than other non-touchscreen solutions. An 8.8-inch display was standard, with a new 10.25-inch screen available. The larger screen offered touchscreen functionality only with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. The system included wireless connectivity, a wireless charging pad, and a Bose stereo on higher trims.

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

The 2024 Mazda MAZDA3 also received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. It offered a range of safety features, with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert standard. Automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist were included from the GS trim, with adaptive cruise control and Traffic Jam Assist available on higher trims.