2026 Toyota Camry LE vs 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S
On paper, the 2026 Toyota Camry LE wins on 19 MPG better, 41 more hp, 10.0″ longer. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 232 vs 191 hp, 50 vs 31 MPG.
The Camry LE leads on 19 MPG better, 41 more hp. The 3 2.5 S leads on $6,475 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 Toyota Camry LE | 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $30,625 | $24,150 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 hybrid | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 232 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | No published data | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 50 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 49 | 37 |
| Combined MPG | 50 | 31 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.0 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,594 lbs | 3,124 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.2" | 107.3" |
| Length | 193.5" | 183.5" |
| Width | 72.4" | 70.7" |
| Height | 56.9" | 56.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 2yr/25k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Toyota Camry LE and 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S starts at $24,150, $6,475 less than the 2026 Toyota Camry LE at $30,625. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $114/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Camry LE?
The 2026 Toyota Camry LE is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $515/year less on fuel; the extra 41 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $6,475 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S covers your needs; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota Camry LE or 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2026 Toyota Camry LE rates 50 combined MPG, 19 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota Camry LE or 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2026 Toyota Camry LE produces 232 hp, 41 more than the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S at 191 hp. The 2026 Toyota Camry LE runs a 2.5L I4 hybrid; the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Toyota Camry LE, FWD on the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S.
Is the 2026 Toyota Camry LE bigger than the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2026 Toyota Camry LE is 10.0″ longer at 193.5″ vs 183.5″. The 2026 Toyota Camry LE has a 3.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Toyota Camry LE and 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Toyota Camry LE comes with AWD, while the 2025 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: Toyota trims, Toyota Camry trims, Mazda trims, Mazda 3 trims
- 2026 Toyota Camry LE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Camry vs 3: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Toyota Camry LE and 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S are both midsize sedans competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $-6,475 gap adds up to $114/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 Toyota Camry LE runs a 2.5L I4 hybrid; the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. The 2026 Toyota Camry LE has 41 more hp (232 vs 191), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Toyota Camry LE comes with AWD; the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Camry vs 3
The 2026 Toyota Camry LE saves roughly $515/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $2,575.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Toyota Camry LE is 10.0″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Toyota Camry LE weighs 470 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 Toyota Camry LE when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $515/year less on fuel. Choose the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S when you want to keep $6,475 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 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 Toyota or Mazda or any dealership.