2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV vs 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport
17.3″ longer and awd vs $2,340 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 182 vs 186 hp, 28 vs 29 MPG.
The Altima 2.5 SV leads on 17.3″ longer, AWD. The 3 2.5 S Select Sport leads on $2,340 less. 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 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV | 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,080 | $26,740 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 182 hp | 186 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 34 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.0 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,401 lbs | 3,117 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.2" | 107.3" |
| Length | 192.9" | 175.6" |
| Width | 72.9" | 70.7" |
| Height | 57.3" | 56.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| 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 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV and 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport starts at $26,740, $2,340 less than the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV at $29,080. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $41/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV?
The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV 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.
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 $2,340 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $52/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport rates 29 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport produces 186 hp, 4 more than the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV at 182 hp. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV, FWD on the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport.
Is the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV bigger than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV is 17.3″ longer at 192.9″ vs 175.6″. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV has a 3.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV and 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV comes with AWD, while the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport 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: Nissan trims, Nissan Altima trims, Mazda trims, Mazda 3 trims
The Altima–3 Decision
Shopping midsize sedans means the Altima and 3 will likely end up on the same test-drive day. Here is what the numbers say before you get behind the wheel. The $-2,340 gap is about $41/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
Both run the same 2.5L I4 engine. The 4 hp difference (186 vs 182) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV comes with AWD; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport saves roughly $52/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $260.
Living With the Altima vs the 3
The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV is 17.3″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. Choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport when you want to keep $2,340 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport 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 Nissan or Mazda or any dealership.