Face-Off: Mazda3 vs. Toyota Corolla

The Mazda3 is the sportier of the two cars, and both are available in sedan and hatchback body styles. Even though it gained a more curvaceous body with its last redesign, the Corolla remains a more restrained-looking car whose function trumps style.

These two cars are similarly priced, but there are some significant differences. Which is more fuel-efficient? Which one has a better ride? Which one has a nicer cabin?

To answer those questions, we took an in-depth look to see how they fare in CR’s testing and surveys. We also noted which advanced safety equipment—such as automatic emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection, AEB that works at highway speed, blind spot warning (BSW), and rear cross traffic warning (RCTW)—comes as standard or optional. Then we let you know which car we think is tops.

If you’re a Consumer Reports member, this face-off is available to you. CR members also have full access to the results of our Annual Auto Surveys; first-drive reviews of the newest cars, SUVs, and trucks; and our full road tests and exclusive ratings for each vehicle we buy.

If you’re not a CR member, click below to join and see the full list of vehicles with the roomiest and most comfortable third rows. As a CR member, you also get access to our exclusive ratings and reviews for every product we buy and test, including cars, grills, mobile phones, and flat-screen TVs.