Right, which is why you're focusing on it rather than the two other claims made.
>lacking in refinements compared to competitors like the Mazda3, and made for people who just see it as a way to get from point A to point B.
Of course, I also disagree that it is insipid, that's also inaccurate vis-a-vis modern Toyota, but that's a different discussion.
In context, it appears they are using the word “refinement” to refer to enthusiast taste. They’re not saying Toyotas are crude vehicles. Your opinion notwithstanding, their statement is very supportable, both in industry reviews and in both brands own value proposition.