2026 Toyota Camry XSE vs 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus
On paper, the 2026 Toyota Camry XSE wins on $865 less, 17 MPG better, 17.9″ longer. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $865 price gap, 232 vs 227 hp, 43 vs 26 MPG.
The Camry XSE leads on $865 less, 17 MPG better, 17.9″ longer. 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 Toyota Camry XSE | 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $37,025 | $37,890 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 hybrid | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 232 hp | 227 hp |
| Torque | No published data | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 43 | 23 |
| Highway MPG | 43 | 31 |
| Combined MPG | 43 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.0 gal | 12.7 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,682 lbs | 3,417 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 XSE and 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus?
The 2026 Toyota Camry XSE starts at $37,025, $865 less than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus at $37,890. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $15/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Camry XSE?
The 2026 Toyota Camry XSE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $865 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Camry XSE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $638/year less on fuel; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
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 you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota Camry XSE or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus?
The 2026 Toyota Camry XSE rates 43 combined MPG, 17 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota Camry XSE or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus?
The 2026 Toyota Camry XSE produces 232 hp, 5 more than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus at 227 hp. The 2026 Toyota Camry XSE runs a 2.5L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Toyota Camry XSE bigger than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus?
The 2026 Toyota Camry XSE is 17.9″ longer at 193.5″ vs 175.6″. The 2026 Toyota Camry XSE 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: 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 XSE starts at $37,025; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus at $37,890. The $865 gap is about $15/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Camry vs 3
The 2026 Toyota Camry XSE runs a 2.5L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 5 hp difference (232 vs 227) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Toyota Camry XSE saves roughly $638/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $3,190. The 2026 Toyota Camry XSE wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2026 Toyota Camry XSE is 17.9″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Toyota Camry XSE when you want to keep $865 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Camry XSE covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus when you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver. At $15/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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.