2026 Mazda Mazda3 2.5 S Select vs 2026 Mazda Mazda3 2.5 Turbo
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Mazda3 2.5 S Select starts at $27,370, $7,100 less. Mazda3 2.5 S Select leads with 29 MPG. Mazda3 2.5 Turbo makes 250 hp (+59).
| Spec | 2026 Mazda Mazda3 2.5 S Select | 2026 Mazda Mazda3 2.5 Turbo |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $27,370 Save $7,100 | $34,470 +$7,100 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L Turbo |
| Horsepower | 191 hp 59 hp less | 250 hp +59 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 320 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-Spd AT | 6-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 +3 | 23 3 less |
| Hwy MPG | 33 +2 | 31 2 less |
| Combined MPG | 29 +3 | 26 3 less |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 13.2 cu ft | 13.2 cu ft |
| Screen | 10.25" | 10.25" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,298 lbs | 3,473 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.3" | 107.3" |
| Length | 184.8" | 184.8" |
| Wheels | 18" Alloy | 18" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | i-Activsense | i-Activsense |
Which Trim Is Best?
The Mazda3 2.5 S Select delivers value; the Mazda3 2.5 Turbo adds features worth $7,100.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Mazda Mazda3 2.5 S Select and 2026 Mazda Mazda3 2.5 Turbo?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Mazda3 2.5 S Select or Mazda3 2.5 Turbo?
Is the 2026 Mazda Mazda3 2.5 S Select worth it, or should I upgrade to 2.5 Turbo?
What features does the 2.5 Turbo have that the 2.5 S Select doesn't?
Do the 2.5 S Select and 2.5 Turbo have the same engine?
Which 2026 Mazda Mazda3 trim has the best resale value?
Is the 2026 Mazda Mazda3 a good car?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Mazda Mazda3 2.5 S Select?
Who Should Choose the 2.5 S Select
The 2026 Mazda Mazda3 2.5 S Select is the right pick for buyers who prioritize value and don't need every available feature. At $27,370, it delivers the core Mazda3 experience — the same platform, the same 2.5L I4 engine, and the same safety suite — without the cost of extras that many drivers rarely use.
If your driving is primarily commuting and errands, and you'd rather put the $7,100 price difference toward other expenses, the 2.5 S Select makes a strong case. Budget-conscious buyers and those buying for reliability rather than luxury will feel well-served here.
Who Should Choose the 2.5 Turbo
The 2026 Mazda Mazda3 2.5 Turbo targets buyers willing to spend $7,100 more for a more complete package. That premium buys 59 more horsepower — features you'll interact with regularly, not just once at the dealership.
The 2.5 Turbo appeals to buyers who want their sedan to feel a step above the base experience. If resale value matters, higher trims also tend to hold their value better as a percentage of MSRP. See how other Mazda3 trims compare: Mazda3 2.5 S vs Mazda3 2.5 S Select, Mazda3 2.5 S vs Mazda3 2.5 Turbo, Camry LE vs Mazda3 2.5 S.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $7,100 gap between the 2.5 S Select and 2.5 Turbo comes down to equipment and trim-level positioning. Specifically, the 2.5 Turbo adds 59 more horsepower.
There is also a performance difference: the Mazda3 2.5 Turbo produces 250 hp versus 191 hp, which translates to noticeable acceleration differences.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Most technology-focused buyers won't find a dramatic difference between these trims — the core infotainment and safety tech carries across the lineup.
Casual drivers who use their sedan primarily for commuting may find the trims feel very similar once underway. The differences are most apparent when you first get in, adjust settings, and interact with the cabin.
When Both Trims Feel the Same
On the highway at 65 mph, these two trims deliver an identical experience. Same engine note, same ride quality, same safety features active in the background. The Mazda3's fundamental driving character doesn't change between the 2.5 S Select and 2.5 Turbo.
Both trims also share the same warranty coverage, the same crash-test ratings, and access to the same dealer service network. If your priority is getting from A to B in a reliable, efficient sedan, either trim accomplishes that equally well. The choice ultimately comes down to how much the in-cabin experience matters to your daily satisfaction with the vehicle.