Drivers shopping for a new fuel-efficient, stylish, and dependable car might eventually find themselves deciding between the 2021 Mazda3 and Honda Civic. Both offer an attractive design on the outside, modern technology inside, and comparable prices. So why do many reviewers and consumers prefer the 2021 Mazda3 to the Honda Civic? Let’s take a closer look. 

An overview of the 2021 Honda Civic

Honda has an incredible reputation for making dependable vehicles that hold high resale values. The Civic received a major aesthetic upgrade within the past few years, and Honda has stuck with the sleeker, more sporty design since.

The 2021 Civic is a fantastic-looking car, especially on the outside. It comes equipped with thin, sloping headlights and a stylish black grille that spans the front of the vehicle. The interior lags behind a bit when it comes to aesthetics, but it offers a 5-inch infotainment screen and a moderate safety features that appeal to many drivers. Buyers can also purchase upgraded versions, like the Sport, EX, and EX-L that offer even more safety features, tech options, and power. 

The Civic has not changed much since 2020 as Honda appears to be saving all of its major upgrades for the 2022 model. Even still, the 2021 Civic performs well enough for most drivers. Customers can choose from two types of engines – a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder that produces 158 hp, or a turbocharged 1.5-liter that can give up to 180 hp. The Civic also provides a smooth ride and easy handling, but nothing about its performance is especially exciting. 

Despite an arguably lackluster interior and driving experience – especially compared to the Mazda3 – the 2021 Honda Civic is still a smart investment for those who want a safe, reliable, fuel-efficient vehicle that maintains its value better than competitors year after year. If you want a new Civic with major improvements, it may be best to wait and see what the 2022 version brings to the table. 

How does the 2021 Mazda3 compare?

Mazda is known for making stylish cars with a modern appeal, and the 2021 Mazda3 is definitely a flashier sedan than the Civic. The exterior of the Mazda3 is impressive and elegant, making it look much more expensive than it actually is. On the inside, the Mazda3 looks and feels like a luxury brand, coming equipped with many advanced safety features, and classy, comfortable seating. Customers can purchase various upgrades, like leather seats, more advanced climate control features, and head-up displays. 

Performance-wise, the base model Mazda3 has a similar engine to the base Honda Civic, but the upgraded Mazda engines provide significantly more power. Those who purchase the base model receive a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine like the civic, giving 155 hp. Customers can also choose an upgraded 2.5-liter engine that can produce 186 hp or a turbocharged 2.5-liter that gives 250 hp for an added boost. If you really want to enhance your driving experience, you have the option to purchase all-wheel drive with the upgraded engines. 

The Mazda3 is also just plain fun to drive. According to Car and Driver, its steering mechanics and feel satisfying and natural, and the Mazda3 drives smoothly over bumpy terrain. Drivers looking to buy a car that seamlessly combines practicality, affordability, and style do not need to look further than the 2021 Mazda3. 

The Mazda3 has a little extra

When it comes down to it, customers that chose either a 2021 Honda Civic or Mazda3 will likely feel happy and satisfied with their purchase for years to come. These vehicles both come with excellent features and provide plenty of bang for their buck, but the Mazda3 has a little something extra with a more comfortable and luxurious interior and enhanced driving experience.