2025 Honda Civic LX vs 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S
$1,300 less and 7 mpg better vs 36 more hp and 53 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $1,300 price gap, 150 vs 186 hp, 36 vs 29 MPG.
The Civic LX leads on $1,300 less, 7 MPG better. The 3 2.5 S leads on 36 more hp, 53 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 | 2025 Honda Civic LX | 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $24,250 | $25,550 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 150 hp | 186 hp |
| Torque | 133 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 32 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 41 | 34 |
| Combined MPG | 36 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 2,877 lbs | 3,117 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.7" | 107.3" |
| Length | 184.8" | 175.6" |
| Width | 70.9" | 70.7" |
| Height | 55.7" | 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 | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Honda Civic LX and 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2025 Honda Civic LX starts at $24,250, $1,300 less than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S at $25,550. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $23/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda Civic LX?
The 2025 Honda Civic LX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,300 in your pocket and the 2025 Honda Civic LX covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $281/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S is the stronger pick when the extra 36 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Honda Civic LX or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2025 Honda Civic LX rates 36 combined MPG, 7 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Honda Civic LX or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S produces 186 hp, 36 more than the 2025 Honda Civic LX at 150 hp. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 133 lb-ft. The 2025 Honda Civic LX runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2025 Honda Civic LX bigger than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2025 Honda Civic LX is 9.2″ longer at 184.8″ vs 175.6″. The 2025 Honda Civic LX has a 0.4″ 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: Honda trims, Honda Civic trims, Mazda trims, Mazda 3 trims
- 2025 Honda Civic LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Civic and 3 Stack Up
Two compact cars, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2025 Honda Civic LX starts at $24,250; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S at $25,550. The $1,300 gap is about $23/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Civic vs 3
The 2025 Honda Civic LX runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S has 36 more hp (186 vs 150), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S adds 53 more lb-ft of torque (186 vs 133), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use FWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Honda Civic LX saves roughly $281/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,405. The 2025 Honda Civic LX wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Honda Civic LX when you want to keep $1,300 in your pocket and the 2025 Honda Civic LX covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S when the extra 36 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $23/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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 Honda or Mazda or any dealership.