Top 8 Toyota Corolla Competitors
The Toyota Corolla is one of the most reliable sedans out there, but there are several alternatives—like the Honda Civic—if the Corolla isn’t for you.
Written by Andrea Barrett
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
The top-selling Honda Civic, the high-performance Subaru Impreza, and the streamlined Hyundai Elantra are just a few Toyota Corolla competitors to watch out for.
The
Toyota Corolla
may not be the fastest, sleekest, or coolest car, but it’s one of the safest, most reliable, and best-selling compact sedans on the market. After a complete redesign in 2020, today’s Corolla sports an edgy look and comes loaded with plenty of standard safety features, plus a host of optional add-ons. With nine trim levels to choose from—all under $30,000—there’s bound to be a model that suits your fancy. But even with fantastic fuel economy, a competitive price, and a compelling new exterior style, the Corolla won’t be the perfect match for every driver.
Ready to check out the top eight Toyota Corolla competitors?
Jerry
, the top-rated app that finds drivers savings on car insurance
, has compiled a list of compact sedans to consider in place of the Corolla.1. Honda Civic
Starting price: $23,645 to $30,245
Selling points: Updated appearance, comfortable cabin, manual transmission available
Weak spots: Slow acceleration, noisy
The
Honda Civic
has a stellar reputation built on more than 50 years of affordability, efficiency, and durability. The newly redesigned 2022 model keeps that reputation going.With a complete overhaul inside and out, the Civic boasts a new look. However, some drivers might find it boring compared to the flamboyant 2021 model.
While the outside may rep a new, more classic design, the foundation of the Civic remains true to its roots. With sharp handling, better-than-average fuel economy, and a solid list of standard safety features, the Civic is the all-around package.
Drivers have the option of the base 158-horsepower four-cylinder engine or a punchy 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder that provides peppier acceleration on the front-wheel drive sedan.
As far as tech features go, Honda hasn’t been quick to incorporate the high-tech offerings of other automotive manufacturers. Still, the top-tier trim levels have upgraded features like a wireless charging pad, a digital instrument panel, and a 9-inch touchscreen withAppleCarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity—but be prepared for a higher price tag.
MORE: Are Hondas expensive to maintain?
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4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ drivers2. Mazda 3
Starting price: $22,165 to $34,465
Selling points: Higher-end than rivals, fuel-efficient
Weak spots: Turbo engine is expensive, limited cargo space
Compared to other compact sedans on the market, the Mazda 3 offers something unique—luxury amenities and upscale looks at a bargain price. Its premium-feeling cabin, sporty handling, and sleek exterior make the
Mazda 3
a total head-turner. Like the Corolla, the Mazda 3 is offered as a sedan or
hatchback
with optional all-wheel drive. While entry-level models may not be as posh as the top-of-the-line trims, they still deliver a big personality to win over almost any car enthusiast. The 2021 models come with one of three engines: a base-level 155-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder, a more powerful 250-horsepower 2.5-liter turbo, or a mid-level 186-horsepower 2.5-liter non-turbo. If you stick with front-wheel drive (FWD), you can also swap out the standard automatic transmission for a manual (yes, manual cars are still a thing).
Regardless of which engine you choose, the Mazda 3 retains its fuel-efficient nature. FWD models have an EPA rating of 28 mpg city and 36 mpg highway.
But the real perk of the Mazda 3 is its interior. For less than $30,000, you’re getting premium materials and a lengthy list of desirable materials, although the most sought-after features require a trim level upgrade. Still, with supportive seats and roomy passenger accommodations, it’s a solid choice.
The one downfall? The sporty rear windshield means rear visibility is severely compromised. But what it lacks there, it certainly makes up for elsewhere.
3. Kia Forte
Starting price: $20,185 to $25,585
Selling points: Good value, well-equipped base model, excellent fuel economy
Weak spots: Pokey acceleration, tight rear seat
The
Kia Forte
underwent a serious revamp recently. The newest model reps a sleek and sporty appearance reminiscent of the Kia Stinger
. If you’re looking for a car that screams “champagne taste on a beer budget,” the Kia Forte comes out on top. It offers sharp styling, impeccable fuel economy, and more standard features than you’d ever need, even at the base level—all for a lower price than its competitors.
While the Forte was initially considered a budget buy, it’s no longer just value—it’s a solid rival for other compact cars like the Mazda 3 and Honda Civic. The Forte lineup ranges from the fuel-sparing base model to the performance-oriented 201-horsepower GT with optional six-speed manual transmission.
But the true beauty of the Forte is in its fuel efficiency, with a combined fuel economy of 33 mpg. Add to that its eye-catching exterior and impressive interior features—few compacts can match up.
New safety and driver-assistance features include navigation-based adaptive cruise control and a lane-centering system, along with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
Yet handling and ride quality are still somewhat lacking in the Forte. And the rear seat offers less room than competitors. Either way, it holds its own as a solid contender among some of the best.
4. Hyundai Elantra
Starting price: $21,245 to $26,995
Selling points: Peppy turbocharged engine, appealing price, optional hybrid
Weak spots: Boring powertrain, futuristic exterior, limited tech on the base model
The
Hyundai Elantra
has never been one of the most eye-catching vehicles on the road, but with a complete redesign, the new Elantra offers edgy styling to go along with an incredibly practical and efficient vehicle. Plus, it has an impressive list of standard features to round out this compact sedan nicely. Drivers can choose between six trim levels with a somewhat sleepy 147-horsepower four-cylinder engine matched with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) or a 201-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder available on two hybrid powertrains.
While it may not produce punchy power and accelerate like its rivals, if you upgrade to the Elantra N, it will. This trim trades the less-than-impressive base engine for a turbocharged I-4 that delivers perkier acceleration and a sport-tuned suspension with adaptive dampers, making it a blast on the backroads.
To go along with the upgraded exterior, the interior is equally as futuristic. It features plenty of passenger space, a solid list of standard driver-assist features, and a plethora of value-oriented packages to outfit your Elantra to your liking.
5. Nissan Sentra
Starting price: $21,045 to $23,795
Selling points: Great comfort, solid list of standard tech features
Weak spots: Unexciting drive, unimpressive engine
The new
Nissan Sentra
gets a serious upgrade over older models, sporting a stylish exterior and an updated, modern-ish interior. With a price range on the lower end of the compact car range, the Sentra is an excellent option for anyone looking for a safe and reliable car. But don’t expect any thrill-seeking rides. A 149-horsepower 2.0L four-cylinder engine paired with a CVT transmission and FWD doesn’t offer the most exciting pickup. It’s a step up from the Versa, though, and still offers a smooth, comfortable commute.
What it lacks in power and performance, the Sentra makes up for in standard safety features and fuel economy. While it may not rival the Toyota Corolla’s gas mileage, the Sentra gets an estimated 29 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. So, it’s one of the more efficient contenders among the bunch.
Although there are plenty of other more thrilling sedans, the Sentra is a great pick for drivers who prioritize safety and value.
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4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ drivers6. Volkswagen Jetta
Starting price: $21,460 to $29,190
Selling points: Impressive ride quality, great storage, manual transmission available
Weak spots: Not engaging, lack of style, no hybrid
Although classified as a compact car, the
Volkswagen Jetta
is surprisingly roomy. The exterior may fly under the radar compared to the more futuristic options on the road, but the Jetta drives gracefully. It’s powered by a 158-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder that doesn't provide the utmost thrills, but drivers looking for a spicier ride might want to check out the Jetta GLI. Regardless, the Jetta can excel from zero to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds, with the optional turbocharged engine reaching it half a second faster.
While the regular Jetta may not be turning any heads as it races by, it does boast a full roster of infotainment and advanced driver assistance features like forward collision mitigation and blind-spot monitoring on the entry-level model.
The Jetta probably isn’t a car enthusiast's first pick, but it builds on the previous model years’ core attributes of spaciousness, no-nonsense style, and a plethora of technology.
7. Subaru Impreza
Starting price: $20,290 to $27,890
Selling points: Standard all-wheel drive, swift steering, great composure
Weak spots: Pokey acceleration, poor fuel economy
As one of the few compact sedans standard with all-wheel drive, the
Subaru Impreza
is the automaker's smallest and most affordable option. Buyers can choose a sedan or a hatchback. While the Impreza has remained relatively unchanged since its debut in 2017, it’s built to last.Powered by a 152-horsepower four-cylinder engine that’s slower than expected, the Impreza may not excel in performance, but it does in driving demeanor. It strikes the perfect balance between smooth and agile with precise handling and a short stopping distance—something that most other compacts lack.
As for practicality, nothing beats the Impreza hatchback. If you’re looking for maximum storage, you’ll find the most space out of the bunch, with 20.8 cubic feet with the rear seats down and an impressive 55.3 cubic feet behind the front seats. That said, don’t expect stellar fuel economy from the Impreza, with a mediocre 32 mpg combined.
But the Impreza still offers playful driving character and great value, making it a respectable choice for anyone looking for a compact sedan. If you’re after fuel economy and refinement, though, consider looking elsewhere.
8. Mini Clubman
Starting price: $30,750 to $40,940
Selling points: Impeccable handling, tons of personalization, speedy acceleration
Weak spots: Pricey, poor cargo capacity
The Mini Clubman doesn’t come with the usual compact car price tag, but you may find it worth the splurge. The Clubman steers away from the classic two-door hardtop model that defines the Mini in favor of a larger, more practical four-door wagon-esque body design.
With a boxy cargo area boasting 13 cubic feet of cargo space in the rear, it maintains the practicality of a hatchback with a healthy dose of fun you’d expect from a Mini.
Even on the base model, the Mini Clubman offers a nimble and lively drive thanks to the 189-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine. But you’ll have to upgrade if you want more grip from all-wheel drive.
As per other Minis, the Clubman features a cabin loaded with upscale materials and the classic retro, whimsical features that Minis are known for.
As for efficiency, don’t expect anything extraordinary. Most other compact sedans beat the Clubman’s 25 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. Its EPA rating is even lower for all-wheel drive models.
Toyota Corolla vs. the competition
Curious to see a side-by-side comparison of the Corolla and its competitors? Check out the chart below:
Model | Starting price range | Engine options | Maximum seating capacity | Maximum cargo volume | Maximum towing capacity | Fuel economy (combined/city/highway) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Toyota Corolla | $21,520 | 4-cylinder | 5 seats | 13.1 cu ft | 1,500 lbs | 34/31/38 mpg |
Honda Civic | $23,645 | 4-cylinder | 5 seats | 14.4 cu ft | 850 lbs | 34/31/38 mpg |
Mazda 3 | $22,165 | 4-cylinder | 5 seats | 13.2 cu ft | N/A | 31/28/36 mpg |
Kia Forte | $20,185 | 4-cylinder | 5 seats | 15.2 cu ft | N/A | 35/31/41 mpg |
Hyundai Elantra | $21,245 | 4-cylinder and hybrid | 5 seats | 14.2 cu ft | 750 lbs | 35/31/41 mpg |
Nissan Senta | $21,045 | 4-cylinder | 5 seats | 14.3 cu ft | 1,000 lbs | 33/29/39 mpg |
Volkswagen Jetta | $21,460 | 4-cylinder | 5 seats | 14.1 cu ft | N/A | 33/29/40 mpg |
Subaru Impreza | $20,290 | 4-cylinder | 5 seats | 12.3 to 20.8 cu ft | 2,645 lbs | 32/28/36 mpg |
Mini Clubman | $30,750 | 4-cylinder | 5 seats | 13 cu ft | N/A | 26/23/33 mpg |
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Purchasing a car is no easy task, and if you’re going to do it, you want to do it right. For most people, that means scouting out the best competitors to ensure you compare apples to apples.
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