2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S vs 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE
39 more hp and 54 more lb-ft torque vs $2,925 less and 6 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 186 vs 147 hp, 29 vs 35 MPG.
The 3 2.5 S leads on 39 more hp, 54 more lb-ft torque. The Elantra SE leads on $2,925 less, 6 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 | 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S | 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $25,550 | $22,625 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 186 hp | 147 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 132 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 31 |
| Highway MPG | 34 | 40 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 35 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 12.4 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,117 lbs | 2,868 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.3" | 107.1" |
| Length | 175.6" | 185.4" |
| Width | 70.7" | 71.9" |
| Height | 56.7" | 55.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S and 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE starts at $22,625, $2,925 less than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S at $25,550. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $52/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 the extra 39 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,925 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $248/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S or 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE rates 35 combined MPG, 6 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S or 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S produces 186 hp, 39 more than the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE at 147 hp. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE uses a 2.0L I4.
Is the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE is 9.8″ longer at 185.4″ vs 175.6″. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S has a 0.2″ 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 Hyundai Elantra offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Mazda trims, Mazda 3 trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Elantra trims
- 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
3 vs Elantra: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S and 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE are both compact cars competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $-2,925 gap adds up to $52/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE uses a 2.0L I4. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S has 39 more hp (186 vs 147), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S adds 54 more lb-ft of torque (186 vs 132), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use FWD.
Running Costs: 3 vs Elantra
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE saves roughly $248/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,240.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S when the extra 39 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE when you want to keep $2,925 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE 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 Mazda or Hyundai or any dealership.