The Germans lead the pack when it comes to delivering high-quality, high-performance cars. But there are some Japanese manufacturers who have managed to give the Germans such competition. Japanese automakers have reported huge sales figures, thanks in large part to the cost benefit Asian automakers get compared to their Western counterparts. But this is not always just cost arbitrage at stake; incorporating a number of innovative best practices is increasingly visible. Toyota and Honda are two Japanese companies that have come up big and are giving Westerners a run for the ball. In this review, we will compare two Japanese wonders, namely Toyota Corolla and Honda Accord. Both cars are aimed at the midsize and large car markets. Both models have been very successful. It’s worth noting that, according to industry estimates, three Toyota Corolla cars are sold every two minutes. Honda Accord has also been a success thanks to its reputation for being one of the most reliable cars in the world.
Toyota Corolla is available in three trim levels which are Corolla, Corolla S and Corolla LE. The engine used in all versions is a 1.8-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder with dual variable valve timing with intelligence technology. This engine can deliver up to 132 hp at 6000 rpm and peak torque of 128 foot-pounds at 4400 rpm. It has an electronic ignition system with Toyota Direct Ignition technology. This is a front wheel drive vehicle. You can choose between a five-speed manual transmission and a four-speed automatic transmission, although the LE version comes with only the four-speed automatic transmission. The manual transmission option provides better fuel economy. On the other hand, the Honda Accord is available in a two-door coupe or four-door sedan. The engine comes in two options: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with a five-speed automatic or manual transmission, and a 3.5-liter V6 that offers only a five-speed automatic transmission. The power and torque generated vary depending on the trim level you choose. It can range from 177 hp to 271 hp and 161 foot-pounds to 251 foot-pounds.
Coming to the interiors, Toyota Corolla offers adjustable sports cloth-trimmed front seats and cloth-trimmed rear seats. Another item of standard equipment is the tilt-and-telescope steering wheel that has audio controls and metallic details. It also has air conditioning with air filter. However, the Honda Accord receives minor updates. The spacious cabin is filled with high-quality materials with ample elbow room. However, the interiors are quite comfortable and spacious. The steering wheel has a number of controls that make it easy for the driver not to wander around for common tasks.
On the outside, Toyota Corolla looks good, not ugly as such. However, you would see some more attractive competitors. The new Honda Accord sports an updated front grille, rear wheels and bumpers. The Accord looks better than a Corolla. So in this attribute, Honda wins.
The Toyota Corolla price starts at $ 15,900, while the Honda Accord price starts at $ 21,380, so there is a little gap between the rivals and this draws a lot of buyers’ attention to the Corolla. It is a good choice and it is worth the price.