2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL vs 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport
17.7″ longer and awd vs $3,310 less and 2 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 191 vs 191 hp, 28 vs 30 MPG.
The Sonata SEL leads on 17.7″ longer, AWD. The 3 2.5 S Select Sport leads on $3,310 less, 2 MPG better. 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 | 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL | 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,500 | $26,190 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 191 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 34 | 35 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 30 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.9 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,466 lbs | 3,146 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.8" | 107.3" |
| Length | 193.3" | 175.6" |
| Width | 73.2" | 70.7" |
| Height | 56.9" | 56.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL and 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport starts at $26,190, $3,310 less than the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL at $29,500. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $58/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL 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 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport is the stronger pick when you want to keep $3,310 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $100/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL or 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport rates 30 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL or 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
Both produce 191 hp. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 181 lb-ft. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL, FWD on the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL bigger than the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL is 17.7″ longer at 193.3″ vs 175.6″. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL has a 4.5″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL and 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL comes with AWD, while the 2025 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?
The Hyundai Sonata comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Mazda 3 offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Sonata trims, Mazda trims, Mazda 3 trims
Sonata vs 3: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL and 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport are both midsize sedans competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $-3,310 gap adds up to $58/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
Both run the same 2.5L I4 engine. Both produce 191 hp. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL comes with AWD; the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Sonata vs 3
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport saves roughly $100/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $500.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL is 17.7″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL weighs 320 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 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. Choose the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport when you want to keep $3,310 in your pocket and the 2025 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 Hyundai or Mazda or any dealership.