Posted at 6:45 p.m.
Mazda3 Sports
Price: from $24,281
This Japanese compact is aimed at motorists who like to drive. They may not be very numerous at a time when consumers say they are fascinated and interested in the virtues of autonomous driving, but Mazda is charting its own course and sticking to a carefully considered roadmap. Access and exit may seem more difficult for people who lack flexibility, due to the more measured roof guard and the design of the rear seat. Also, it will be criticized for very average visibility (five doors) and a trunk that is not very greedy.
Subaru Impreza
PHOTO PROVIDED BY SUBARU
Subaru Impreza
Price: from $23,295
If there is a season when the Impreza largely dominates the Forte, it is winter. The only mass-market compact to offer permanent four-wheel drive as standard, the Impreza benefits from exceptional traction and provides increased safety on road surfaces with a low coefficient of grip. Only here, there are three other seasons. And when the weather is dry and the sun is shining, the Impreza turns out to be a fairly placid compact to drive. Its flat engine does not particularly like revving and its performance is at best in the good average.
Toyota Corolla
PHOTO PROVIDED BY TOYOTA
Toyota Corolla Hatchback
Price: from $21,450
The Corolla needs no introductions anymore. It is a safe bet within its segment due to its durability and reliability. Faced with the Kia, it currently has the advantage of offering a hybrid engine. In return, the Forte is more welcoming for rear passengers and the trunk of the five-door version has more appetite. On the road, the Corolla is rather responsive and transmits more direct sensations to the steering wheel, provided the vehicle is fitted with 18 p tires. However, this car is not a high-flying sports car and its engine remains within reasonable limits, without ever really being unworthy, especially in terms of fuel consumption.