2025 Toyota GR86 Base vs 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S
This is not a spec comparison. It is a decision about whether you need a sports car or a compact car. Key numbers: 228 vs 191 hp, 24 vs 31 MPG.
The GR86 Base leads on 37 more hp. The 3 2.5 S leads on $7,350 less, 7 MPG better. 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 Toyota GR86 Base | 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $31,500 | $24,150 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L flat 4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 228 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 37 |
| Combined MPG | 24 | 31 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 2,851 lbs | 3,124 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 101.4" | 107.3" |
| Length | 167.9" | 183.5" |
| Width | 69.9" | 70.7" |
| Height | 51.6" | 56.9" |
| Safety | ||
| 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 | 2yr/25k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base and 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S starts at $24,150, $7,350 less than the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base at $31,500. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $130/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base?
The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base is the stronger pick when you want the 37 hp advantage on backroads and highway on-ramps; your priority is driving engagement; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
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 $7,350 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $395/year less on fuel; your priority is a comfortable daily commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base or 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S rates 31 combined MPG, 7 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base or 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base produces 228 hp, 37 more than the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S at 191 hp. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 184 lb-ft. The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base runs a 2.4L flat 4; the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. Drivetrains differ too: RWD on the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base, FWD on the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S.
Is the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base bigger than the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S is 15.6″ longer at 183.5″ vs 167.9″. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S has a 5.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom. Keep in mind these are different vehicle types (sports car vs compact car), so interior layout and cargo access are fundamentally different.
Do the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base and 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base uses RWD and the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S uses FWD. The drivetrain affects traction, fuel economy, and how the vehicle handles in different conditions.
Can I cross-shop a sports car against a compact car?
Yes, and many buyers do. A sports car and a compact car solve different problems, so the comparison is less about specs and more about lifestyle. Think about what you need most: fuel efficiency and a smooth commute. The spec table above helps you compare the numbers, but a test drive is where you will feel the difference in daily use.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Toyota trims, Toyota GR86 trims, Mazda trims, Mazda 3 trims
- 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The GR86–3 Decision
Comparing a sports car to a compact car means asking what you actually need from your next vehicle. The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base ($31,500) and 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S ($24,150) answer that question differently. The $-7,350 gap adds up to $130/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base runs a 2.4L flat 4; the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base has 37 more hp (228 vs 191), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Drivetrains differ: RWD on the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base, FWD on the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S saves roughly $395/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,975.
Living With the GR86 vs the 3
The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base is tuned for driving engagement over practicality. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S is optimized for a comfortable daily commute and a low center of gravity. These are fundamentally different vehicles, so the comparison comes down to what job you need done, not which one is objectively better. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S is 15.6″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S has a 5.9″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base when you want the 37 hp advantage on backroads and highway on-ramps. Choose the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S when you want to keep $7,350 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 Toyota or Mazda or any dealership.