2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2021 Toyota Corolla

The 2021 Toyota Corolla, particularly in its 12th-generation form, was considered one of the most attractive iterations of the model. The SE and XSE trims enhanced its appeal with sport-design bumpers, a mesh grille insert, a body kit, and 18-inch aluminum wheels. The Celestite Gray metallic paint added a unique blue undertone, making the Corolla genuinely appealing. However, some design elements, like the hood shut line and the over-styled rear bumper, detracted from its overall aesthetic. The Corolla offered a range of trims, including the L, LE, and XLE, for those seeking a more understated look. The Corolla Hybrid provided an economical option with over 50 mpg. The SE and XSE trims, priced at $22,375 and $25,825 respectively, featured a more powerful engine and sportier styling. The XSE's interior was a significant improvement over previous models, with high-quality materials and a minimalist design, though it lacked practical storage solutions.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI, a staple in the hot hatch category, was known for its subtle yet effective performance enhancements over the regular Golf. It featured distinctive red GTI badges, a red horizontal strip across the grille, and painted brake calipers visible through 18-inch alloy wheels. The GTI's lowered stance, stainless-steel exhaust tips, and gloss black accents contributed to its sporty appearance. Inside, the GTI maintained the Golf's quality feel, with red ambient lighting, a race-inspired steering wheel, and heated front sport seats. The interior materials were high-quality, and the design was both functional and stylish, with thoughtful storage options and a focus on driver engagement.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla SE and XSE were equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 169 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 151 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. This engine was paired with a Dynamic Shift CVT, paddle shifters, and a Sport driving mode. The CVT was praised for its mechanical first gear, which improved initial acceleration and reduced the typical CVT droning. The Corolla's TNGA platform provided a low center of gravity and enjoyable driving dynamics, with electric steering, vented front brakes, and a MacPherson strut front suspension. The SE and XSE trims featured 18-inch wheels and 225/40 all-season tires. Despite its modest power, the Corolla XSE offered predictable handling and a fun driving experience, with an EPA-rated 34 mpg in combined driving.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The GTI's performance was enhanced by a four-wheel independent suspension, DCC adaptive damping, and variable-ratio steering. The Autobahn model included a DSG seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, though a six-speed manual was also available. The GTI's handling was sharp and responsive, though its performance-oriented setup resulted in a rough ride on ordinary roads. The GTI achieved fuel economy ratings of 23 mpg city/30 mpg highway/26 mpg combined with the manual transmission, and 24 mpg city/32 mpg highway/27 mpg combined with the dual-clutch transmission.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla XSE offered SofTex leatherette seats with striped fabric inserts, front-seat heating, and an eight-way power driver's seat. The front seats provided good support and visibility, though the rear seats were tight on headroom and legroom. The Corolla sedan's trunk offered 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space, while the hatchback version provided 17.8 cubic feet. The lack of a handle on the inside of the trunk lid was a minor inconvenience.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI's hatchback design made it highly practical, with 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 24.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. The GTI's compact dimensions and tight turning circle made it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The interior featured clever storage solutions, including large door pockets and well-sized cupholders. The mechanical handbrake was a nod to traditional design, though it slightly interfered with access to the cupholders.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla came standard with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The SE and XSE trims featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with the XSE offering additional connectivity features like Remote Connect. The optional nine-speaker JBL sound system provided good depth but lacked clarity. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical knobs and buttons for easy navigation.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI featured the VW MIB touchscreen infotainment system, with S models using a 6.5-inch screen and SE and Autobahn models an 8-inch screen with navigation. The system supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink, with Bluetooth and USB connectivity. Volkswagen Car-Net offered additional features like remote access and hotspot capabilities. The GTI also included LED lighting, keyless access, and rain-sensing wipers.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and more. The Corolla added rear side-impact airbags and a blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert. The 2020 model received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though the 2021 model required re-testing due to the addition of new airbags.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and "Good" scores from the IIHS, except for an "Acceptable" rating in the small overlap front passenger side test. The GTI included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and other safety features. The Autobahn trim added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. The GTI's sharp handling was also considered a safety feature, potentially helping to avoid collisions.