Honda Civic vs. Toyota Corolla

Brickell Honda

The Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla are two of the most popular compact cars, and for a good reason. Both have stellar reputations for reliability, safety, and comfort. If you are looking for a car that provides a great riding experience and is easy to handle, then you can't go wrong with either option.

However, because of their popularity and similarities, it can be difficult to decide between the two options when car shopping. Though they are similar, there are some key differences between the two models that can make a difference in your decision. We'll go over some of the features of each model, plus how they compare to each other in various performance categories so you can make an informed choice when car shopping.

The Honda Civic (2023)

The Honda Civic model is available in three different trims–Sport, EX, and Touring. The basic trim, Sport, starts at $25,050. The most expensive trim available will cost upwards of $30,050.

This model boasts a stylish interior with high-quality materials, like fingerprint-resistant black accents. It also has plenty of space in the backseat, plus versatile storage options. 

With a lot of helpful and entertaining technology features, the Civic provides a comfortable experience for drivers and passengers. It's equipped with safety features, like a rearview camera, road departure mitigation system, forward collision warning, and traffic jam assistance, to name a few. Along with safety technology, there is also Apple Carplay and Android Auto, a push-button start, and a USB port to round out a very comfortable driving experience.

The Toyota Corolla (2023)

There are three gas trims to choose from as well as three hybrid trims available. The gas trims are the LE, XE, and XSE. The hybrid options available are the Hybrid LE, Hybrid SE, and Hybrid XLE. At the most basic trim, the LE starts at $21,550. At the highest end of the range, the XLE starts at $26,700. 

With the Toyota Corolla, you can expect a host of high-end technology features, like automatic climatic control with dust and pollen filters, multiple USB ports, an 8-inch touchscreen, and a rearview camera. 

The Toyota Corolla also has a ton of safety features included in all of the trims. Some of the features included are a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams.

How Do They Compare to Each Other?

Though the two models are similar to each other, there are pros and cons to each one. We'll go over some of these key differences.

The Toyota Corolla Offers More Affordable Pricing on Trims Than the Honda Civic

The Toyota Corolla wins in the price category with more trim options and lower overall starting prices. If you're looking for the best value within a tight budget, the Corolla will likely be the better choice.   

The Honda Civic Has More Room in Interior and Cargo Space Than the Toyota Corolla

Overall, there will be more space in a Honda Civic vs. Toyota Corolla. Not only does the Civic have more legroom for backseat passengers, but there is more cargo space as well. With its clever storage solution of rear folding backseats, there is a lot of cargo room. 

The Honda Civic's Interior Is More Upscale Than the Toyota Corolla

Though both the Civic and the Corolla feature clean and refined interiors, the design of the Civic is slightly more upscale. The Civic's interior is sleek and sophisticated, with high-quality material throughout the cabin and the streamlined look of a honeycomb panel that cleverly hides the heating and cooling vents.

The Honda Civic's Infotainment Center Is Slightly Better Than the Toyota Corolla

The Civic and the Corolla feature similarly sized touchscreen display centers; however, the Corolla's is bigger by an inch. However, the Civic's entertainment system is a bit better overall, with Apple Carplay and Android Auto capabilities, plus an eight-speaker sound system. In contrast, the Corolla only has a six-speaker system. Ultimately, the entertainment technology features are better in the Honda Civic vs. Toyota Corolla. 

The Toyota Corolla Has Better Fuel Economy Than the Honda Civic

The Toyota Corolla has impressive fuel economy, particularly with the hybrid options. The Corolla standard gas option has a 31/41 mpg city/highway, while the Corolla's hybrid option enjoys a 47/41 mpg city/highway. Fuel efficiency is significant to a lot of car shoppers, as this will save money at the pumps. You'll use up more gas with the Honda Civic vs. Toyota Corolla. If you care a lot about fuel efficiency, then the hybrid options will probably be one of the best options.

The Honda Civic Has More Potential Horsepower Than the Toyota Corolla

The standard engine options for the Toyota Corolla include a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which has 169 horsepower. The Corolla also offers a hybrid powertrain with up to 134 horsepower. In comparison, the Civic offers a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which generates up to 158 horsepower. It also has a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with up to 180 horsepower. 

If you're looking for a compact car that still packs a lot of power, then you'll get better performance from a Honda Civic vs. Toyota Corolla.

With two immensely popular and similar models from competing brands, it can be hard to choose your next car. The Toyota Corolla and the Honda Civic both share unique features and similar performance capabilities. Ultimately if you are looking for a smooth ride, more cargo space options, and a sleek interior cabin, then the Honda Civic is the best option for you. However, the Toyota Corolla's hybrid options offer incredibly good fuel efficiency, so if you are looking for a car with that kind of advantage, you'll want to go with the Toyota Corolla.