2014 Toyota Corolla versus 2014 Mazda3

Both the Toyota Corolla, left, and Mazda3 are all new for 2014. Consider yourself lucky if either lands on your shopping list or in your driveway. In addition, each reflects the growing competitiveness of cars in this segment. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

Oct. 10, 2013 8:47 AM PT

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Compact cars are like toasters. Almost everyone, at some point, has owned one. They do their job without drama. Only rarely do they burn you.

Comparing the 2014 Toyota Corolla and Mazda3

The front end of the Toyota Corolla, top, compared with that of the Mazda3. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

A comparison of a front-end portion of the Toyota Corolla, top, with that of the Mazda3. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

The console of the Toyota Corolla, top, and the layout in the Mazda3. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

The in-dash navigation system of the Toyota Corolla, top, compared with the system in the Mazda3. The Corolla tested came with a great touch-screen navigation system with traffic alerts. In the Mazda tested, dash controls and a wonderfully straightforward touch screen have an Audi-like quality to them. They’re even nicer than what you’ll find on the larger Mazda6 sedan. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

The driver’s instrument panel of the Toyota Corolla, top, and the one in the Mazda3. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

The rear seats of the Toyota Corolla, top, compared with those in the Mazda3. An increased wheelbase in the Corolla allows for a cavernous back seat, far outpacing its compact competitors -- including the Mazda -- in rear space. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)