2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus vs 2026 Nissan Sentra SR
On paper, the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus wins on 78 more hp, 164 more lb-ft torque, AWD. The 2026 Nissan Sentra SR has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 227 vs 149 hp.
The 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus leads on 78 more hp, 164 more lb-ft torque. The Sentra SR leads on $11,000 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 | 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus | 2026 Nissan Sentra SR |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,000 | $25,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 227 hp | 149 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 146 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | No published data |
| Highway MPG | 32 | No published data |
| Combined MPG | 27 | No published data |
| Fuel Tank | 12.7 gal | 12.4 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,395 lbs | 3,153 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.3" | 106.5" |
| Length | 183.5" | 183.3" |
| Width | 70.7" | 71.5" |
| Height | 56.9" | 57.1" |
| Safety | ||
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| 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 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus and 2026 Nissan Sentra SR?
The 2026 Nissan Sentra SR starts at $25,000, $11,000 less than the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus at $36,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $194/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus is the stronger pick when the extra 78 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR?
The 2026 Nissan Sentra SR is the stronger pick when you want to keep $11,000 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR covers your needs.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus or 2026 Nissan Sentra SR?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus produces 227 hp, 78 more than the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR at 149 hp. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 146 lb-ft. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR uses a 2.0L I4. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus, FWD on the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR.
Is the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus bigger than the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus is 0.2″ longer at 183.5″ vs 183.3″. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus has a 0.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus and 2026 Nissan Sentra SR have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus comes with AWD, while the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR 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: Mazda trims, Mazda 3 trims, Nissan trims, Nissan Sentra trims
3 vs Sentra: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus and 2026 Nissan Sentra SR are both compact cars competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $-11,000 gap adds up to $194/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 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR uses a 2.0L I4. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus has 78 more hp (227 vs 149). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus adds 164 more lb-ft of torque (310 vs 146), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus comes with AWD; the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus when the extra 78 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR when you want to keep $11,000 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR 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 Mazda or Nissan or any dealership.