Honda Civic vs. Corolla
September 03 2024 - Jay Honda

How they  perform!

When it comes to comparing the Civic and the Corolla specs for their base trims, both offer similar performance metrics. For example, the Civic is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that provides 158 horsepower and 138 lb-feet of torque, while the Corolla has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that provides 169 horsepower and 151 lb.-ft. of torque. What does differ, however, is that the Civic offers a turbocharged engine option that delivers a higher output of  180 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. This results in an impressive burst from 0-60 mph in just 7.4 seconds.

Both vehicles offer about the same fuel efficiency making them each a great choice for today’s eco-conscious drivers.

Trim comparison!

In the 2024 model, the Honda Civic is presented with four trim levels, each boasting different features and amenities.

The LX is the standard trim, complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a 7-inch touchscreen, Honda Sensing safety and driver assistance suite, a 4-speaker audio system and cloth seats. The Sport is a step up, featuring an 8-speaker audio system, leather-wrapped steering wheel and a three-mode drive system. The third trim, the EX, is presented with a one-touch power moonroof, heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control. The Touring, considered the top-of-the-line edition, comes with a 9-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bose Premium Audio System with 12 speakers, Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System and leather-trimmed seats.

By comparison, the Toyota offers its own set of trim options, including the base-level LE, featuring automatic climate control, an 8-inch touch screen and remote keyless entry. The second trim, the SE, features premium sport seats, a dynamic-shift CVT and 18-inch alloy wheels. A blacked-out edition, the fittingly named Nightshade trim, features black sport side rocker panels and rear spoiler, blackout badging and 18-inch bronze-finished wheels. Last by not least is the top trim, the XSE, with available JBL sound system, a power tilt/slide moonroof and wireless smartphone charging.

How they size up!

When it comes to dimensions, some major differences come to light in both the interior and exterior measurements. While both sedans offer seating for up to five, one stands out when it comes to space for passengers and within the trunk.

The Civic comes out on top in all areas, first with when it comes to headroom dimensions inside at 39.3 inches in front and 37.1 inches at rear compared to the front headroom of the Corolla at 38.3 inches, but with a similar rear at 37.1. The Civic also boasts more legroom than the Corolla, with 42.3 inches in front and 37.4 inches at rear, compared to the Toyota with 42.0 inches in front and 34.8 inches at rear. Shoulder room is also more ample in the Civic at 57.0 inches in front and 56.0 inches at back, compared to the Corolla with 54.0 inches in front and 51.7 at back.

Honda also comes out ahead with hip room, measuring 54.3 inches in the front and 48.9 inches at rear, with the Toyota coming in at 53.9 inches in front and 51.3 inches at the rear. Most importantly for those who desire ample trunk space, the Honda reigns supreme, boasting 14.8 cubic feet of space compared to the Corolla at 13.1 cubic feet.

Overall, the Honda is roomier for both passengers front and back, as well as within its cargo space. Because of this fact, many drivers may flock to this sedan, which also boasts excellent performance, sleek style and advanced features.

Back to similarities, and the Civic and Corolla are both known for their reliability, each with excellent standings within the automotive industry. That being said, the 2024 Honda Civic has a higher “J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Rating of 82,” while the 2024 Corolla has a rating of 76. That means that the Honda may be considered more reliable in this latest model year.

In general, the Honda is larger than the Corolla, as well as offers the more powerful turbocharged engine option.

Looking ahead, the Honda Civic will be presented with revised powertrain options in 2025 that match some of Toyota’s hybrid offerings in some regards and even outmatches them in others.

In the new model year, Honda will not be offering the 1.5-liter turbocharged, inline-four engine, and the 2.0-liter naturally aspirated base engine is coming back for the LX and Sport trims. Also revised in 2025 are the EX and Sport Trims, with the Civic also presented with two hybrid trims – the Sport Hybrid and the Sport Touring Hybrid.

The electric motor alone makes 182 hp and contributes to a 6.3-second 0-60 mph time.

In the area of the hybrid’s fuel economy, it is worth noting that the Corolla’s hybrid powertrain is much less powerful at 134 hp and 156 lb-ft of torque compared to the Honda’s, with the Corolla also taking 2.5 seconds longer in its jump from 0-60 mph at 8.8 seconds.

In a nutshell, the new Honda Civic Hybrid is more powerful, more efficient but not more expensive! With four trim levels, two of which are hybrid only, Honda stands apart, with a nice price point to match! For example, a 2025 Civic LX sedan costs just $300 more than last year, starting at a nice and reasonable $25,345, with Toyota’s least expensive non-hybrid Corolla LE coming in at $23,145 and the SE, a Sport rival, at $25,585.

Considered a top pick in the compact segment even before its 2025 update, the Civic stands out as a choice for many, remaining top of the class with excellent driving dynamics, a classy interior and solid refinement. A nuanced analysis is complete! Make your decision, and reserve your next best choice today!