2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport vs 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE
28 more hp vs 5 MPG better and 10.9″ longer. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $245 price gap, 186 vs 158 hp, 29 vs 34 MPG.
The 3 2.5 S Select Sport leads on 28 more hp. The Jetta SE leads on 5 MPG better, 10.9″ longer. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 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 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport | 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $26,740 | $26,985 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 186 hp | 158 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 29 |
| Highway MPG | 34 | 40 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 34 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,300/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,117 lbs | 3,058 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.3" | 105.7" |
| Length | 175.6" | 186.5" |
| Width | 70.7" | 70.8" |
| Height | 56.7" | 57.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport and 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport starts at $26,740, $245 less than the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE at $26,985. 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 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport is the stronger pick when you want to keep $245 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport covers your needs; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $213/year less on fuel; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport or 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE rates 34 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport or 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport produces 186 hp, 28 more than the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE at 158 hp. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 184 lb-ft. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport bigger than the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE is 10.9″ longer at 186.5″ vs 175.6″. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport has a 1.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Mazda 3 comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Volkswagen Jetta offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Mazda trims, Mazda 3 trims, Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Jetta trims
3 vs Jetta: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport and 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE are both compact cars competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $245 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.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport has 28 more hp (186 vs 158), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use FWD.
Running Costs: 3 vs Jetta
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE saves roughly $213/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,065. The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE costs more upfront but recovers some of that gap through lower running costs. At $213/year in savings, it takes about 1.2 years to close the $245 sticker difference.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE is 10.9″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport when you want to keep $245 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $213/year less on fuel.
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 Mazda or Volkswagen or any dealership.