New Toyota Corolla vs Honda Civic: verdict

Our verdict

This latest Corolla is even more recommendable than the previous version was. True, some rivals are more practical and have more rear seat space, but it lands a number of solid blows on the Civic with its soothing ride, quiet cruising manners and lower buying and running costs. The upgraded engine has significantly improved the way it drives, too.

We’d happily point you in the direction of the Corolla if it weren’t for the Civic, which is virtually as impressive in areas such as fuel economy while being quicker, better to drive and more practical, with an even smarter interior. Yes, it costs a little more to buy, but we think the extra outlay is worth it to get the best car in this class.

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1st – Honda Civic

For More enjoyable to drive; stronger performance; interior feels more upmarket; impressive practicality
Against Rear head room could be better; a little pricey compared with main rivals; some road noise intrudes
Recommended options None

What Car? says 5 stars out of 5

Read our full Honda Civic review >>

Find Honda Civic deals >>

2nd – Toyota Corolla

For Quieter cruiser; more cosseting ride; cheaper to buy; Toyota’s reliability record; long warranty available
Against Still not all that exciting to drive; tight for rear leg room; shallower boot with spare wheel specified
Recommended options None

What Car? says 5 stars out of 5

Read our full Toyota Corolla review >>

Find Toyota Corolla deals >>

Specifications: New Toyota Corolla 1.8 Hybrid Design

Engine 4cyl, 1798cc, petrol, plus electric motor
Peak power 138bhp (combined)
Peak torque 105Ib ft (petrol engine only) 
Gearbox CVT automatic
0-60mph 9.6sec
30-70mph 9.7sec
Top speed 111mph
30-omph 10.3m
70-0mph 58.5m
Noise at 30mph 61.4db
Noise at 70mph 67.6db
Kerb weight 1410kg
Tyre size (std) 225/45 R17 
Fuel tank 43 litres
CO2 emissions 110g/km

Test weather conditions Damp, 8deg C

Specifications: Honda Civic 2.0 e:HEV Sport

Engine 4cyl, 1993cc, petrol, plus two electric motors
Peak power 181bhp (combined)
Peak torque 232Ib ft (combined)
Gearbox 1-spd automatic
0-60mph 6.8sec
30-70mph 6.2sec
Top speed 111mph
30-omph 8.1m
70-0mph 43.7m
Noise at 30mph 61.6db
Noise at 70mph 68.1db
Kerb weight 1533kg
Tyre size (std) 235/40 R18 
Fuel tank 40 litres
CO2 emissions 113g/km

Cars pictured

Toyota Corolla 1.8 Hybrid Icon with Obsidian Blue metallic paint (£630)

Honda Civic 2.0 e:HEV Advance with Platinum White pearlescent paint (£650)

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