Toyota corolla zr vs mazda 3: the battle of the compact sedans

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What To Know

  • The Toyota Corolla ZR has a slight edge in fuel economy, achieving 30 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway compared to the Mazda 3’s 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
  • The Mazda 3 has a slight advantage in pricing, starting at $23,600 compared to the Corolla ZR’s $23,850.
  • While the Mazda 3 has a slight edge in engine power, handling, and interior refinement, the Corolla ZR offers better fuel economy and a more comprehensive safety suite as standard.

In the fiercely competitive compact car segment, the Toyota Corolla ZR and Mazda 3 stand out as two formidable contenders. Both offer a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and style. But which one comes out on top? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into every aspect of these two vehicles to help you make an informed decision.

Performance

Engine Power:

  • Toyota Corolla ZR: 2.0L 4-cylinder, 169 horsepower
  • Mazda 3: 2.5L 4-cylinder, 186 horsepower

The Mazda 3 boasts an advantage in engine power, delivering a more spirited driving experience. Its 2.5L engine produces 186 horsepower, while the Corolla ZR’s 2.0L engine makes 169 horsepower.

Acceleration:

  • Toyota Corolla ZR: 0-60 mph in 8.1 seconds
  • Mazda 3: 0-60 mph in 7.2 seconds

The Mazda 3 also excels in acceleration, reaching 0-60 mph in a brisk 7.2 seconds compared to the Corolla ZR‘s 8.1 seconds. This difference is noticeable on the road, especially when merging onto highways or overtaking other vehicles.

Handling:

  • Toyota Corolla ZR: Sport-tuned suspension, responsive steering
  • Mazda 3: G-Vectoring Control Plus, i-Activsense safety suite

Both the Corolla ZR and Mazda 3 offer agile handling. The Corolla ZR features a sport-tuned suspension and responsive steering, while the Mazda 3 boasts G-Vectoring Control Plus, which enhances cornering stability and reduces understeer.

Efficiency

Fuel Economy:

  • Toyota Corolla ZR: 30 mpg city / 41 mpg highway
  • Mazda 3: 28 mpg city / 36 mpg highway

The Toyota Corolla ZR has a slight edge in fuel economy, achieving 30 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway compared to the Mazda 3’s 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. This difference may not be significant for occasional drivers, but it can add up over time for those who commute frequently.

Interior

Space and Comfort:

  • Toyota Corolla ZR: Roomy cabin, comfortable seats
  • Mazda 3: Luxurious interior, premium materials

The Toyota Corolla ZR offers a spacious cabin with comfortable seats. The Mazda 3, however, takes the interior to the next level with its luxurious materials and premium appointments. The seats are supportive and provide excellent comfort even on long journeys.

Infotainment:

  • Toyota Corolla ZR: 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • Mazda 3: 8.8-inch touchscreen, Mazda Connect infotainment system

Both vehicles feature user-friendly infotainment systems with large touchscreens. The Corolla ZR‘s 8-inch touchscreen offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, while the Mazda 3’s 8.8-inch touchscreen runs the Mazda Connect infotainment system, which is known for its intuitive interface and responsive graphics.

Safety

Safety Features:

  • Toyota Corolla ZR: Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (pre-collision system, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control)
  • Mazda 3: i-Activsense safety suite (adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring)

Both the Corolla ZR and Mazda 3 come with comprehensive safety suites. The Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 includes features such as a pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control, while the Mazda’s i-Activsense safety suite offers adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and blind spot monitoring.

Price

Starting Price:

  • Toyota Corolla ZR: $23,850
  • Mazda 3: $23,600

The Mazda 3 has a slight advantage in pricing, starting at $23,600 compared to the Corolla ZR‘s $23,850. However, it’s important to note that the Corolla ZR comes with a higher level of standard equipment, including Toyota Safety Sense 2.0.

Our Verdict

The Toyota Corolla ZR and Mazda 3 are both exceptional compact cars that offer a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and style. While the Mazda 3 has a slight edge in engine power, handling, and interior refinement, the Corolla ZR offers better fuel economy and a more comprehensive safety suite as standard. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual priorities and budget.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

1. Which car has better acceleration?

  • Mazda 3

2. Which car is more fuel-efficient?

  • Toyota Corolla ZR

3. Which car has a more spacious interior?

  • Toyota Corolla ZR

4. Which car has a more luxurious interior?

  • Mazda 3

5. Which car has a better infotainment system?

  • Mazda 3

6. Which car has a more comprehensive safety suite?

  • Toyota Corolla ZR

7. Which car is more affordable?

  • Mazda 3

8. Which car is better for long journeys?

  • Mazda 3

9. Which car is better for city driving?

  • Toyota Corolla ZR

10. Which car has a better resale value?