Used Toyota Corolla vs. Used Honda Civic: Which Compact Sedan Is Right for You?
Two names dominate the compact car conversation—Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic. For Arizona drivers looking for affordable, reliable, and fuel-efficient vehicles, these sedans are among the best choices on the road. But which one should you choose?
Whether you’re commuting through Phoenix traffic or exploring the wide-open highways of Arizona, this in-depth comparison of the used Toyota Corolla and used Honda Civic will help you decide which compact sedan is the right fit for your lifestyle and driving needs.
Why Arizona Drivers Love Compact Sedans
Compact sedans continue to be a top choice among Arizona buyers because they deliver:
- Exceptional fuel economy for long commutes and desert drives
- Reliable performance with low maintenance costs
- Efficient cooling systems for handling Arizona heat
- Affordable pricing, especially in the used market
- Great for students, first-time buyers, and families
Both the Corolla and Civic excel in these areas—but let’s dive deeper into the details.
Performance & Efficiency
Used Toyota Corolla (2020–2022)
- 1.8L 4-cylinder engine (139 hp)
- 2.0L Dynamic Force engine (169 hp) on higher trims
- CVT automatic transmission
- Up to 40 MPG highway
Used Honda Civic (2020–2022)
- 2.0L 4-cylinder engine (158 hp)
- 1.5L turbocharged engine (174–180 hp depending on trim)
- CVT automatic or 6-speed manual (available on some trims)
- Up to 42 MPG highway
Verdict: The Civic has a slight edge in horsepower and fuel efficiency, especially with its turbocharged option. It’s ideal for Arizona drivers who want responsive performance for freeway merges and long trips to Flagstaff or Tucson.
Interior & Comfort
Toyota Corolla Interior
- User-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Soft-touch materials on higher trims
- Well-insulated cabin that stays cool in the heat
Honda Civic Interior
- Sportier cockpit-style dashboard layout
- Higher trims offer leather-trimmed seats and power moonroof
- Roomier back seat compared to the Corolla
Verdict: If rear passenger space is important, the Civic wins. But the Corolla has a slight edge in cabin insulation and simplicity—making it a favorite for Arizona drivers who prioritize quiet comfort in traffic.
Technology & Features
Both models offer excellent tech, even in their base trims:
- Corolla: Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, automatic high beams
- Civic: Honda Sensing Suite, collision mitigation braking, road departure mitigation, and adaptive cruise control
Both sedans support smartphone connectivity and have responsive infotainment screens. However, the Civic’s system is slightly more modern and offers more USB ports in higher trims.
Reliability & Maintenance
In Arizona’s extreme climate, durability matters. According to J.D. Power and Consumer Reports:
- Toyota Corolla: Consistently receives top marks for long-term reliability and resale value
- Honda Civic: Also highly reliable but may require slightly more maintenance in the long run (e.g., turbo service)
Verdict: The Corolla’s lower maintenance needs make it a better fit for those driving in the high-heat conditions of Mesa and Phoenix year-round.
Price & Availability in Arizona
Used Corollas and Civics are widely available at Arizona Car Sales, often with Certified Pre-Owned options that include warranty protection.
- Average used price for Corolla: $16,000 – $22,000 (2020–2022)
- Average used price for Civic: $17,500 – $23,000 (2020–2022)
You can also shop by monthly payment to find a plan that works for your budget.
Resale Value
According to Kelley Blue Book, Toyota models—including the Corolla—tend to have slightly better resale value over time compared to Honda. This makes the Corolla a better long-term investment if you plan to trade in or resell in 3–5 years.
Get an estimate of your car’s value today and see how much you can save by trading in your current vehicle!
Which Should You Choose?
- Choose the Corolla if: You want low maintenance costs, excellent reliability, and strong resale value.
- Choose the Civic if: You want a sportier driving feel, more rear legroom, and slightly better fuel economy.
Arizona Car Sales carries a large inventory of both models, many of which are one-owner vehicles with clean Carfax reports and extended warranty coverage.
Financing Made Easy
As a Credit Union Direct Lending Plus dealership, Arizona Car Sales partners with 20+ credit unions to help you secure low rates—even with challenging credit. With our no payments for 90 days on approved credit offer, you can drive off today and pay later.
Apply for financing online and get pre-approved in minutes!
Why Buy from Arizona Car Sales?
At Arizona Car Sales, we prioritize your peace of mind and satisfaction. Every vehicle on our lot undergoes a 120+ point safety inspection, ensuring it meets Arizona state safety requirements and exceeds your expectations for quality and reliability. We provide a free vehicle history report on every vehicle, so you can buy with confidence. With thousands of five-star reviews, a no-pressure experience, and trusted service, it’s no wonder Arizona Car Sales is the go-to dealership for compact sedans in Phoenix, Mesa, and beyond.
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