2025 Subaru Legacy Sport vs 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport
On paper, the 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport wins on 69 more hp, 91 more lb-ft torque, 15.5″ longer. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 260 vs 191 hp, 26 vs 30 MPG.
The Legacy Sport leads on 69 more hp, 91 more lb-ft torque. The 3 2.5 S Select Sport leads on $10,220 less, 4 MPG better. 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 Sport | 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,410 | $26,190 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L flat 4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 260 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 277 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 35 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 30 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.5 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,764 lbs | 3,146 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.3" | 107.3" |
| Length | 191.1" | 175.6" |
| Width | 72.4" | 70.7" |
| Height | 59.1" | 56.7" |
| 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 Sport and 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport starts at $26,190, $10,220 less than the 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport at $36,410. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $180/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport?
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport is the stronger pick when the extra 69 hp matters for your commute or driving style; 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 $10,220 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $215/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport or 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport rates 30 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport or 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport produces 260 hp, 69 more than the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport at 191 hp. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport also leads in torque at 277 lb-ft vs 186 lb-ft. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport runs a 2.4L flat 4 Turbo; the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport uses a 2.5L I4. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport, FWD on the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport.
Is the 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport bigger than the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport is 15.5″ longer at 191.1″ vs 175.6″. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport has a 1.0″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport and 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport 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?
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
How the Legacy and 3 Stack Up
Two midsize sedans, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport starts at $36,410; the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport at $26,190. The $-10,220 gap adds up to $180/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Legacy vs 3
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport runs a 2.4L flat 4 Turbo; the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport uses a 2.5L I4. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport has 69 more hp (260 vs 191). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport adds 91 more lb-ft of torque (277 vs 186), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport 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.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport saves roughly $215/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,075.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport is 15.5″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport weighs 618 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Subaru Legacy Sport when the extra 69 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport when you want to keep $10,220 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 Subaru or Mazda or any dealership.