2022 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2022 Toyota Corolla

The 2022 Toyota Corolla aimed to shed its reputation for being bland by offering bold exterior styling, including scowling LED headlights and a wide grille. It couldn't out-weird the Hyundai Elantra, nor was its design as cohesive as the redesigned Honda Civic. Different trims like the SE and XSE flaunted aggressive front fascias resembling a mouth guard, while Nightshade Editions featured blacked-out trim and Apex Editions sported a subtle body kit with bronze accents and model-specific 18-inch wheels.

Our Cement (gray) SE Apex Edition probably played the best “Fast and Furious” impersonation Toyota could achieve. Though its effort to stray from the “basic transportation” look was appreciated, the Corolla exhibited less expressive interior styling. Fit and finish lived up to Toyota's standards, yet the piano black plastic trim was a dust and smudge magnet. The sportiness from the exterior wasn’t replicated inside, while light gray upholstery looked prone to staining. Most Corollas flaunted cloth seats, while some trims offered SofTex leatherette.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3, on the other hand, continued with its mature, artistically sculpted exterior that might not appeal to everyone. Its deeply contoured flanks and hunchback appearance (particularly in the hatchback) held a certain charm for those who appreciate finesse. Our top-tier 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus in Polymetal Gray Metallic emphasized stealth with no flashy spoilers or garish colors.

Inside, the Mazda3 exuded sophistication. Refined materials and polished metallic finishes created a nearly upscale atmosphere. Front-seat comfort and driver-focused design were paramount, with thoughtful padding for where one might brace legs during spirited drives. While rear seat comfort paled in comparison, especially for taller passengers, the hatchback's storage options and decent cargo space provided utility.

Our SE Apex Edition boasted sporty handling thanks to specialised suspension, despite a firmer ride quality. But the performance, particularly when starting or merging, felt lackluster. Driving enthusiasts might appreciate its cornering eagerness despite its lack of raw power, making it fun on winding roads but less on highways.

Conversely, the 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 accommodated a broader power range. The base 2.0 model had a decent 155 hp from its 2.0-liter engine, prioritizing fuel efficiency at 31 mpg combined. Stepping up, the 2.5 S with a 2.5-liter engine struck a balance with 186 hp and 186 lb-ft, available in FWD or optional AWD, plus a six-speed manual for hatchbacks. Fuel economy varied from 27-30 mpg combined.

The standout was the 2.5 Turbo, boasting 227 hp on regular gas and up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft with premium fuel, coupled with standard AWD. Achieving 23.1 mpg might seem underwhelming, yet the payoff was a thrilling, gradually building power delivery and remarkable handling. Smooth and communicative, the Mazda3 excelled on twisty roads, although the brakes did struggle under extreme conditions, signaling a need for an upgrade.

While Toyota hadn’t released headroom and legroom specifications for the 2022 Corolla sedan, it felt adequately roomy. Visibility benefited from a low beltline, yet the steep windshield hindered forward views, which was common among compact sedans. The redesign moved seats for better positioning, but long-legged drivers still might find knee space lacking. The 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space was practical, albeit less than some competitors. A slim center console and lack of smaller storage solutions were minor complaints.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3, sitting low to the ground, had challenges with ingress and egress due to small door openings. Once inside, front-seat occupants enjoyed a snug but comfortable driving position with user-friendly controls, except the Mazda Connect infotainment system. Thigh and side bolster support were commendable, and the interior padded areas for comfort.

Rear seat comfort was limited, particularly for taller passengers, and lacked amenities like rear A/C vents and USB ports. However, the hatchback offered 20.1 cubic feet with seats up and expanded to 47.1 cubic feet when folded, making it a versatile option for cargo.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla's infotainment system lagged behind due to a lack of updates. All but the base model featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. A nine-speaker JBL audio upgrade was available for higher trims. Toyota's interface was user-friendly yet outdated, lacking wireless smartphone connectivity and more modern features.

Conversely, the Mazda3’s Mazda Connect relied on an 8.8-inch non-touchscreen display controlled via a center console knob. This method to avoid driver distraction was noble but often frustrating due to missing physical tuning functions and subpar voice recognition. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration helped alleviate some of the drawbacks. The 12-speaker Bose system in many trims and an Active Driving Display added a touch of premium feel. Remote features through Mazda Connected Services provided additional convenience.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla excelled in safety, earning an IIHS “Top Safety Pick+,” with the top Good scores in crash tests, despite lower headlight ratings. NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. Standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 included a comprehensive package of driver-assist features, though features like blind-spot monitoring required higher trims.

The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 mirrored this accomplishment with top ratings from both NHTSA and IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and more. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, adaptive headlights, and high-end tech like Traffic Jam Assist and reverse automatic braking. The Mazda3’s systems operated smoothly and reliably, gaining driver trust.