2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S vs 2025 Subaru Legacy Base
$1,260 less vs 15.5″ longer and AWD. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $1,260 price gap, 186 vs 182 hp, 29 vs 30 MPG.
The 3 2.5 S leads on $1,260 less. The Legacy Base leads on 15.5″ longer, AWD. 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 | 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S | 2025 Subaru Legacy Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $25,550 | $26,810 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 186 hp | 182 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 176 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 34 | 35 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 30 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,450/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,117 lbs | 3,492 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.3" | 108.3" |
| Length | 175.6" | 191.1" |
| Width | 70.7" | 72.4" |
| Height | 56.7" | 59.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| 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 Mazda 3 2.5 S and 2025 Subaru Legacy Base?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S starts at $25,550, $1,260 less than the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base at $26,810. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $22/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,260 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S covers your needs; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base?
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base is the stronger pick when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S or 2025 Subaru Legacy Base?
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base rates 30 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S or 2025 Subaru Legacy Base?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S produces 186 hp, 4 more than the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base at 182 hp. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 176 lb-ft. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base uses a 2.5L flat 4. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S, AWD on the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base.
Is the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S bigger than the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base?
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base is 15.5″ longer at 191.1″ vs 175.6″. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base has a 1.0″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S and 2025 Subaru Legacy Base have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base comes with AWD, while the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S 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: Mazda trims, Mazda 3 trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Legacy trims
- 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Subaru Legacy Base Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
3 vs Legacy: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S and 2025 Subaru Legacy Base are both compact cars competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $1,260 gap is about $22/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 4 hp difference (186 vs 182) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base comes with AWD; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: 3 vs Legacy
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base is 15.5″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base weighs 375 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S when you want to keep $1,260 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. At $22/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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 Subaru or any dealership.