Hey everyone, new to this forum. I’m planning to get a ‘23 Corolla LE soon after owning a few Civics. Right now, I’m deciding between a 2020 Civic EX hatchback and the ‘23 Corolla LE. I loved my Civics because they were fun to drive and kind of felt like a go-kart in some ways. Both seem like solid choices, but I want something that will make my daily commute and road trips enjoyable. Any thoughts?
Newer Hondas have way too many sensors, not saying they’re bad, but I’d go for the Corolla. It’s easier to maintain and will probably last longer than a Civic.
I have a 2022 Corolla hatch with a manual, and it’s super fun to drive. For a front-wheel-drive car, it feels quick and handles really well. The suspension is softer, so it’s a smooth ride, but it still grips nicely in corners. I used to drive a 2010 Audi A4, and while I do miss AWD and the extra power, the Corolla hatch is great for what it is. My dream car would be the GR Corolla, but it’s too pricey. I went with the hatch because I wanted something cheap to own. Just oil changes and brakes when needed. Almost at 90,000 km, and I haven’t even touched the brakes yet.
I’ve had a few Hondas, but mostly VWs. Right now, I own a 2018 VW Golf Sportwagen (AWD, manual) and a 2020 Corolla SE sedan (manual). The VW is better to drive, but the Corolla is better to own. Hondas drive more like European cars than Corollas do, but they’re still easier to maintain than a VW. If I were buying new, I’d probably go for a Mazda 3. Since manuals are disappearing, at least Mazda gives you a proper automatic instead of a CVT. If driving experience is your priority, I’d say Mazda 3 first, then Civic, then Corolla. But for resale value, the Corolla wins.
I recently got a 2018 Corolla LE after my 2014 Civic was totaled. I really loved my Civic—never had a single problem with it. That said, I think I like my Corolla a little more. It feels smoother to drive. My only complaint is that it doesn’t have a digital speedometer, but that’s such a small thing that I feel silly even mentioning it.
@Wynne
I get what you’re saying. I’ve had three Civics, and my 2012 has 270,000 miles without any issues. But my daughter just bought a 2018 Corolla, and I think it rides better and is quieter. Great car. Hope she gets the same reliability I’ve had with my Civics, and I think she will.