2026 Toyota Corolla LE vs 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S
$1,225 less and 3 mpg better vs 22 more hp and 35 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $1,225 price gap, 169 vs 191 hp, 34 vs 31 MPG.
The Corolla LE leads on $1,225 less, 3 MPG better. The 3 2.5 S leads on 22 more hp, 35 more lb-ft torque. 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 Corolla LE | 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $22,925 | $24,150 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 169 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 151 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 31 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 38 | 37 |
| Combined MPG | 34 | 31 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,300/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 2,955 lbs | 3,124 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 107.3" |
| Length | 182.5" | 183.5" |
| Width | 70.1" | 70.7" |
| Height | 56.5" | 56.9" |
| Safety | ||
| 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 | 2yr/25k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Toyota Corolla LE and 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla LE starts at $22,925, $1,225 less than the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S at $24,150. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $21/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Corolla LE?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla LE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,225 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Corolla LE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $120/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S is the stronger pick when you prefer the Mazda approach to the compact car segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota Corolla LE or 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla LE rates 34 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota Corolla LE or 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S produces 191 hp, 22 more than the 2026 Toyota Corolla LE at 169 hp. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 151 lb-ft. The 2026 Toyota Corolla LE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Toyota Corolla LE bigger than the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S is 1.0″ longer at 183.5″ vs 182.5″. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S has a 1.0″ 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 Corolla trims, Mazda trims, Mazda 3 trims
- 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Corolla–3 Decision
Shopping compact cars means the Corolla 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 $1,225 gap is about $21/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Toyota Corolla LE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S has 22 more hp (191 vs 169), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S adds 35 more lb-ft of torque (186 vs 151), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use FWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Toyota Corolla LE saves roughly $120/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $600. The 2026 Toyota Corolla LE wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Toyota Corolla LE when you want to keep $1,225 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Corolla LE covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S when you prefer the Mazda approach to the compact car segment. At $21/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.