2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus vs 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR
45 more hp and 132 more lb-ft torque vs $7,560 less and 2 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 227 vs 182 hp, 26 vs 28 MPG.
The 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus leads on 45 more hp, 132 more lb-ft torque. The Altima 2.5 SR leads on $7,560 less, 2 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 Turbo Premium Plus | 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $37,890 | $30,330 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 227 hp | 182 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 34 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.7 gal | 16.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,550/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,417 lbs | 3,442 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.3" | 111.2" |
| Length | 175.6" | 192.9" |
| Width | 70.7" | 72.9" |
| Height | 56.7" | 57.4" |
| 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 Turbo Premium Plus and 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR starts at $30,330, $7,560 less than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus at $37,890. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $133/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus is the stronger pick when the extra 45 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR is the stronger pick when you want to keep $7,560 in your pocket and the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus or 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR rates 28 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus or 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus produces 227 hp, 45 more than the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR at 182 hp. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus bigger than the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR is 17.3″ longer at 192.9″ vs 175.6″. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR has a 3.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
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, Nissan trims, Nissan Altima trims
The 3–Altima Decision
Shopping compact cars means the 3 and Altima will likely end up on the same test-drive day. Here is what the numbers say before you get behind the wheel. The $-7,560 gap adds up to $133/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR uses a 2.5L I4. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus has 45 more hp (227 vs 182), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus adds 132 more lb-ft of torque (310 vs 178), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR saves roughly $115/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $575.
Living With the 3 vs the Altima
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR is 17.3″ 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 Turbo Premium Plus when the extra 45 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR when you want to keep $7,560 in your pocket and the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR 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 Nissan or any dealership.