2025 Subaru Legacy Base vs 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S
Awd vs $2,660 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 182 vs 191 hp, 30 vs 31 MPG.
The Legacy Base leads on AWD. The 3 2.5 S leads on $2,660 less. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 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 Subaru Legacy Base | 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $26,810 | $24,150 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 182 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 176 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 35 | 37 |
| Combined MPG | 30 | 31 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.5 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,450/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,492 lbs | 3,124 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.3" | 107.3" |
| Length | 191.1" | 183.5" |
| Width | 72.4" | 70.7" |
| Height | 59.1" | 56.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | No published data | 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 Subaru Legacy Base and 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S starts at $24,150, $2,660 less than the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base at $26,810. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $47/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base?
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base is the stronger pick when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,660 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base or 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S rates 31 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base or 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S produces 191 hp, 9 more than the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base at 182 hp. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 176 lb-ft. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base, FWD on the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S.
Is the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base bigger than the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base is 7.6″ longer at 191.1″ vs 183.5″. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base has a 1.0″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base and 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base comes with AWD, while the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S 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: Subaru trims, Subaru Legacy trims, Mazda trims, Mazda 3 trims
- 2025 Subaru Legacy Base Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Legacy–3 Decision
Shopping midsize sedans means the Legacy 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 $-2,660 gap is about $47/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. The 9 hp difference (191 vs 182) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base comes with AWD; the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
The Ownership Math
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Living With the Legacy vs the 3
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base weighs 368 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 2025 Subaru Legacy Base when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. Choose the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S when you want to keep $2,660 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S 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 Subaru or Mazda or any dealership.