The Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic are often neck and neck when it comes to compact sedans. In late 2021, both Toyota and Honda released their 2022 models, prompting many buyers to compare which car offers the best value. These two cars share a lot in common, but key differences might influence your decision.
The Civic and Corolla are known for their affordability, reliability, and versatility. Both are popular choices for middle-class families in Nigeria, and you’ll often see them used by car-hailing services. For anyone torn between these two models, we’ve broken down their advantages to help you make an informed choice.
The 2022 Honda Civic comes equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that delivers 180 horsepower, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds. In contrast, the Toyota Corolla’s 2.0-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine produces 169 horsepower, with a slower 0-60 mph time of 8.2 seconds.
The Honda Civic offers a roomier interior than the Corolla, thanks to its longer wheelbase of 107.7 inches (compared to the Corolla’s 106.3 inches). It also provides more legroom: 42.3 inches in the front and 37.4 inches in the rear, compared to the Corolla’s 42.0 inches and 34.8 inches respectively. The Civic also features a larger trunk, with 14.8 cubic feet of storage versus the Corolla’s 13.1 cubic feet.
The Honda Civic’s independent rear suspension contributes to its smooth and confident handling. It offers a more comfortable ride over rough terrain, which is particularly beneficial for Nigerian roads. The Civic also has performance versions, like the Civic Si and Civic Type R, which are quicker and more enjoyable to drive compared to the Corolla. For drivers who value performance, the Civic is a strong contender.
In terms of tech, the Civic feels more modern than the Corolla. It comes with two rear USB ports, compared to the Corolla’s single USB port awkwardly placed in the center armrest. The Civic also boasts a 9.0-inch infotainment display, whereas the largest display in the Corolla is 8.0 inches. Plus, the Civic’s fully digital instrument cluster is more advanced than the Corolla’s mixed analogue-digital setup.
The Honda Sensing suite also outperforms Toyota’s Safety Sense in terms of driver assistance features. The Civic’s system feels more advanced, offering real-time vehicle displays and steering assistance for lane-keeping, making it feel more like a luxury feature.
While both cars can be noisy, especially on rough pavement, the Corolla tends to be quieter overall. The Civic’s cabin can become loud over uneven surfaces, with the engine noise being particularly noticeable. The Corolla is better at handling this noise, making it the better choice for passengers looking for a quieter ride.
One of the key advantages of the Toyota Corolla is its hybrid option. The Corolla Hybrid offers a highly efficient drivetrain, achieving 53/52 mpg city/highway and offering a total range of 593 miles. In comparison, while the Honda Insight (a hybrid variant of the Civic) exists, it comes with a higher base price of ₦28 million, compared to the ₦23 million starting price for the Corolla Hybrid. This makes the Corolla the more fuel-efficient and budget-friendly choice when opting for a hybrid.
Both the 2022 Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla have their merits. The Civic excels in performance, tech, and interior space, while the Corolla stands out with its quieter ride, hybrid option, and affordability. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences—whether you prioritize modern technology and driving experience, or fuel efficiency and a quieter cabin.
