2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade vs 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport
On paper, the 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade wins on 17 MPG better, 46 more hp, 17.9″ longer. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 232 vs 186 hp, 46 vs 29 MPG.
The Camry Nightshade leads on 17 MPG better, 46 more hp. The 3 2.5 S Select Sport leads on $7,385 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 Nightshade | 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $34,125 | $26,740 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 hybrid | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 232 hp | 186 hp |
| Torque | No published data | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 46 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 46 | 34 |
| Combined MPG | 46 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.0 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,627 lbs | 3,117 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.2" | 107.3" |
| Length | 193.5" | 175.6" |
| Width | 72.4" | 70.7" |
| Height | 56.9" | 56.7" |
| 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 Nightshade and 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport starts at $26,740, $7,385 less than the 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade at $34,125. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $130/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade?
The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $535/year less on fuel; the extra 46 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 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 $7,385 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport covers your needs; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade rates 46 combined MPG, 17 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade produces 232 hp, 46 more than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport at 186 hp. The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade runs a 2.5L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport uses a 2.5L I4. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade, FWD on the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport.
Is the 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade bigger than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade is 17.9″ longer at 193.5″ vs 175.6″. The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade has a 3.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade and 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade 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: Toyota trims, Toyota Camry trims, Mazda trims, Mazda 3 trims
How the Camry and 3 Stack Up
Two midsize sedans, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade starts at $34,125; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport at $26,740. The $-7,385 gap adds up to $130/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Camry vs 3
The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade runs a 2.5L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport uses a 2.5L I4. The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade has 46 more hp (232 vs 186), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade 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.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade saves roughly $535/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $2,675.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade is 17.9″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade weighs 510 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Toyota Camry Nightshade when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $535/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport when you want to keep $7,385 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 Toyota or Mazda or any dealership.