2024 Toyota Camry LE vs 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S
16.5″ longer and awd vs $2,270 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 202 vs 186 hp, 29 vs 29 MPG.
The Camry LE leads on 16.5″ longer, AWD. The 3 2.5 S leads on $2,270 less. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2024 Toyota Camry LE | 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $27,820 | $25,550 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 202 hp | 186 hp |
| Torque | 182 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 34 | 34 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.4 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,475 lbs | 3,117 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.2" | 107.3" |
| Length | 192.1" | 175.6" |
| Width | 72.4" | 70.7" |
| Height | 57.1" | 56.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 2yr/25k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2024 Toyota Camry LE and 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S starts at $25,550, $2,270 less than the 2024 Toyota Camry LE at $27,820. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $40/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2024 Toyota Camry LE?
The 2024 Toyota Camry LE is the stronger pick when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,270 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S covers your needs; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2024 Toyota Camry LE or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
Both achieve 29 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2024 Toyota Camry LE or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2024 Toyota Camry LE produces 202 hp, 16 more than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S at 186 hp. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 182 lb-ft. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2024 Toyota Camry LE, FWD on the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S.
Is the 2024 Toyota Camry LE bigger than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2024 Toyota Camry LE is 16.5″ longer at 192.1″ vs 175.6″. The 2024 Toyota Camry LE has a 3.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2024 Toyota Camry LE and 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2024 Toyota Camry LE comes with AWD, while the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Toyota trims, Toyota Camry trims, Mazda trims, Mazda 3 trims
- 2024 Toyota Camry LE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Camry vs 3: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2024 Toyota Camry LE and 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S are both midsize sedans competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $-2,270 gap is about $40/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
Both run the same 2.5L I4 engine. The 16 hp difference (202 vs 186) is marginal in daily driving. The 2024 Toyota Camry LE comes with AWD; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Camry vs 3
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2024 Toyota Camry LE is 16.5″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2024 Toyota Camry LE weighs 358 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2024 Toyota Camry LE when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. Choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S when you want to keep $2,270 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Toyota or Mazda or any dealership.