2026 Honda Civic Sport vs 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport
5 mpg better and 9.2″ longer vs 36 more hp and 53 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $45 price gap, 150 vs 186 hp, 34 vs 29 MPG.
The Civic Sport leads on 5 MPG better, 9.2″ longer. The 3 2.5 S Select Sport leads on 36 more hp, 53 more lb-ft torque. 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 | 2026 Honda Civic Sport | 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $26,695 | $26,740 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 150 hp | 186 hp |
| Torque | 133 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 31 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 39 | 34 |
| Combined MPG | 34 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 2,926 lbs | 3,117 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.7" | 107.3" |
| Length | 184.8" | 175.6" |
| Width | 70.9" | 70.7" |
| Height | 55.7" | 56.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | 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 2026 Honda Civic Sport and 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Honda Civic Sport starts at $26,695, $45 less than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport at $26,740. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda Civic Sport?
The 2026 Honda Civic Sport is the stronger pick when you want to keep $45 in your pocket and the 2026 Honda Civic Sport covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $213/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport is the stronger pick when the extra 36 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda Civic Sport or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Honda Civic Sport rates 34 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda Civic Sport or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport produces 186 hp, 36 more than the 2026 Honda Civic Sport at 150 hp. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 133 lb-ft. The 2026 Honda Civic Sport runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Honda Civic Sport bigger than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Honda Civic Sport is 9.2″ longer at 184.8″ vs 175.6″. The 2026 Honda Civic Sport has a 0.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda Civic trims, Mazda trims, Mazda 3 trims
The Civic–3 Decision
Shopping compact cars means the Civic 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 $45 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Honda Civic Sport runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport uses a 2.5L I4. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport has 36 more hp (186 vs 150), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport adds 53 more lb-ft of torque (186 vs 133), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use FWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Honda Civic Sport saves roughly $213/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,065. The 2026 Honda Civic Sport wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Honda Civic Sport when you want to keep $45 in your pocket and the 2026 Honda Civic Sport covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport when the extra 36 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
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 Honda or Mazda or any dealership.