2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S vs 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S
On paper, the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S wins on $1,555 less, 5 MPG better, 10.9″ longer. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 186 vs 158 hp, 29 vs 34 MPG.
The 3 2.5 S leads on 28 more hp. The Jetta S leads on $1,555 less, 5 MPG better. 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 | 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $25,550 | $23,995 |
| 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 | 2,998 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 and 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S starts at $23,995, $1,555 less than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S at $25,550. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $27/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 prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,555 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S covers your needs; 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 or 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S rates 34 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S or 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S produces 186 hp, 28 more than the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S at 158 hp. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 184 lb-ft. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S bigger than the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S is 10.9″ longer at 186.5″ vs 175.6″. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S 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
- 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The 3–Jetta Decision
Shopping compact cars means the 3 and Jetta will likely end up on the same test-drive day. Here is what the numbers say before you get behind the wheel. The $-1,555 gap is about $27/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S has 28 more hp (186 vs 158), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use FWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S saves roughly $213/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,065.
Living With the 3 vs the Jetta
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S is 10.9″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S when you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver. Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S when you want to keep $1,555 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S 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 Volkswagen or any dealership.