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The Toyota Corolla is a popular car. The new Toyota model offers much of what Corolla fans love in a practical package. The new hatchback offers impressive fuel economy numbers at 36 mpg overall. However, with a score of just 51 points, Consumer Reports finds the Toyota lacking in multiple categories. In fact, these new cars are better options for potential buyers.

Consider a 2022 Subaru Impreza over the Toyota Corolla Hatchback

A Red Toyota Corolla Hatchback at an auto show
Toyota Corolla Hatchback | Getty Images

Unlike the Toyota Corolla Hatchback, the 2022 Subaru Impreza has a roomier-feeling interior and a more comfortable ride. Additionally, the Subaru Impreza has standard all-wheel drive. Pair these things with an overall score of 81, and picking the Impreza seems like an easy choice. That is why the Subaru model came in at number one of twelve on Consumer Reports’ compact cars list.

As an ‘under-the-radar’ new car option, consider the 2022 Mazda3

A Gray 2022 Mazda3 drives in the mountains
2022 Mazda3 | Mazda

The 2022 Mazda3 is a possible alternative to the popular Toyota Corolla Hatchback. With a combined score of 69, Consumer Reports doesn’t consider it as good as the Subaru Impreza. However, the 2022 Mazda3 offers top-quality fit and finish as well as a quiet and refined interior. On top of that, the Mazda offers noteworthy fuel economy with 30 mpg overall.

It is not just the Corolla; you should also avoid the 2022 Kia Forte, says Consumer Reports

A Silver 2022 Kia Forte with a sunset
2022 Kia Forte | Kia

The 2022 Kia Forte comes in with an abysmal Consumer Reports score of 39 out of 100. First, the Forte has a stiff ride and transfers every road imperfection to its passengers. Next, the engine makes enough power to accelerate sufficiently, but the noise it produces is less than musical. Finally, and most importantly, the Forte suffers from below-average reliability.

Consider a 2022 Hyundai Elantra instead of a Kia Forte

A Gray 2022 Hyundai Elantra drives in the city
2022 Hyundai Elantra | Hyundai

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra enjoys good handling, solid braking performance, and easily used controls. Additionally, the Hyundai Elantra comes in both a hybrid and nonhybrid variant, each achieving excellent fuel economy standards. Although if you’re considering a Hyundai Elantra, you’ll probably want the more economical hybrid, which also features a more refined ride.

The 2022 Nissan Sentra could be an unlikely alternative to a Kia Forte

An Orange 2022 Nissan Sentra inside
2022 Nissan Sentra | Nissan

Coming in at number two in the Consumer Reports list of compact cars, the 2022 Nissan Sentra is an option for Forte customers. The Nissan Sentra features above-average ride and handling, as well as excellent braking performance. Additionally, with 32 mpg overall, the Nissan Sentra is an economical choice for folks in the market.

Don’t settle for a 2022 Cadillac CT5, there are other new cars

Silver Cadillac CT5 with windmills
Cadillac CT5 | Cadillac

With an overall score of 57, the 2022 Cadillac CT5 has some issues. Consumer Reports claims that the turbocharged engine and transmission are the biggest offenders. The engine and exhaust are reportedly noisy, and the transmission is slow to upshift when necessary. This is unfortunate, given that the CT5’s ride and handling credentials are at European sports sedan levels.

The 2022 Audi A4 is a viable option for people considering the Cadillac CT5

Silver 2022 Audi A4 drives around corners
2022 Audi A4 | Audi

The 2022 Audi A4 can do just about anything. It comes with standard all-wheel drive, as well as a modern and refined interior. Consumer Reports assigned a score of 85 points to the Audi, meaning it’s a viable alternative to a Cadillac.

The 2022 Infiniti Q50 is an ‘under-the-radar’ alternative to the Cadillac CT5

The 2022 Infiniti Q50 is number one on Consumer Reports’ list of luxury compact cars. With excellent handling, braking, and power delivery, the Q50 boasts some great performance credentials. Pair the performance with class-leading interior room, and you have an agile alternative to a Cadillac CT5.

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