2024 Toyota Camry XLE vs 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport
16.5″ longer and awd vs $5,830 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 202 vs 186 hp, 28 vs 29 MPG.
The Camry XLE leads on 16.5″ longer, AWD. The 3 2.5 S Select Sport leads on $5,830 less. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 XLE | 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $32,570 | $26,740 |
| 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 | 28 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.4 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,540 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 XLE and 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport starts at $26,740, $5,830 less than the 2024 Toyota Camry XLE at $32,570. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $103/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2024 Toyota Camry XLE?
The 2024 Toyota Camry XLE 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 Select Sport?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,830 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $52/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2024 Toyota Camry XLE or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport rates 29 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2024 Toyota Camry XLE or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2024 Toyota Camry XLE produces 202 hp, 16 more than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport at 186 hp. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 182 lb-ft. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2024 Toyota Camry XLE, FWD on the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport.
Is the 2024 Toyota Camry XLE bigger than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2024 Toyota Camry XLE is 16.5″ longer at 192.1″ vs 175.6″. The 2024 Toyota Camry XLE has a 3.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2024 Toyota Camry XLE and 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2024 Toyota Camry XLE comes with AWD, while the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport 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
The Camry–3 Decision
Shopping midsize sedans means the Camry and 3 will likely end up on the same test-drive day. Here is what the numbers say before you get behind the wheel. The $-5,830 gap adds up to $103/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
Both run the same 2.5L I4 engine. The 16 hp difference (202 vs 186) is marginal in daily driving. The 2024 Toyota Camry XLE comes with AWD; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport saves roughly $52/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $260.
Living With the Camry vs the 3
The 2024 Toyota Camry XLE is 16.5″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2024 Toyota Camry XLE weighs 423 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2024 Toyota Camry XLE when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. Choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport when you want to keep $5,830 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport 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.