In general I always recommend Corolla for rougher roads and Civic for well carpeted smoother roads. Both cars are great, with their individual pros and cons. You will sit much higher in the corolla which makes it easier to get in and out, something that is nice for shorter distances. The added ground clearance compared to the civic will also be appreciated. The lower drive of the civic makes it feel much grippier though and just a tad bit smoother. I personally chose a Corolla due to often traveling on broken roads.