2026 Toyota Corolla SE vs 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport
$1,375 less and 5 mpg better vs 35 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $1,375 price gap, 169 vs 186 hp, 34 vs 29 MPG.
The Corolla SE leads on $1,375 less, 5 MPG better. The 3 2.5 S Select Sport leads on 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 SE | 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $25,365 | $26,740 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 169 hp | 186 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 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 38 | 34 |
| Combined MPG | 34 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,300/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,110 lbs | 3,117 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 107.3" |
| Length | 182.5" | 175.6" |
| Width | 70.1" | 70.7" |
| Height | 56.5" | 56.7" |
| 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 SE and 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla SE starts at $25,365, $1,375 less than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport at $26,740. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $24/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,375 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $213/year less on fuel.
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 prefer the Mazda approach to the compact car segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla SE rates 34 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport produces 186 hp, 17 more than the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE at 169 hp. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 151 lb-ft. The 2026 Toyota Corolla SE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE bigger than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla SE is 6.9″ longer at 182.5″ vs 175.6″. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport 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
How the Corolla and 3 Stack Up
Two compact cars, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2026 Toyota Corolla SE starts at $25,365; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport at $26,740. The $1,375 gap is about $24/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Corolla vs 3
The 2026 Toyota Corolla SE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport uses a 2.5L I4. The 17 hp difference (186 vs 169) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport adds 35 more lb-ft of torque (186 vs 151), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use FWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Toyota Corolla SE saves roughly $213/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,065. The 2026 Toyota Corolla SE wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE when you want to keep $1,375 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport when you prefer the Mazda approach to the compact car segment. At $24/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.