2024 Toyota Camry XSE vs 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus
$4,770 less and 2 mpg better vs 22 more hp and 125 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $4,770 price gap, 205 vs 227 hp, 28 vs 26 MPG.
The Camry XSE leads on $4,770 less, 2 MPG better. The 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus leads on 22 more hp, 125 more lb-ft torque. 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 XSE | 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $33,120 | $37,890 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 205 hp | 227 hp |
| Torque | 185 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 23 |
| Highway MPG | 34 | 31 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.4 gal | 12.7 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,580 lbs | 3,417 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.2" | 107.3" |
| Length | 192.7" | 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 XSE and 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus?
The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE starts at $33,120, $4,770 less than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus at $37,890. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $84/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2024 Toyota Camry XSE?
The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,770 in your pocket and the 2024 Toyota Camry XSE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus is the stronger pick when you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2024 Toyota Camry XSE or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus?
The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE rates 28 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2024 Toyota Camry XSE or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus produces 227 hp, 22 more than the 2024 Toyota Camry XSE at 205 hp. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 185 lb-ft. The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2024 Toyota Camry XSE bigger than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus?
The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE is 17.1″ longer at 192.7″ vs 175.6″. The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE has a 3.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
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
Camry vs 3: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE and 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus are both midsize sedans competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $4,770 gap adds up to $84/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus has 22 more hp (227 vs 205), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus adds 125 more lb-ft of torque (310 vs 185), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Camry vs 3
The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE saves roughly $115/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $575. The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE is 17.1″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2024 Toyota Camry XSE when you want to keep $4,770 in your pocket and the 2024 Toyota Camry XSE covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus when you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver. At $84/month more, the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
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.