VS
At a Glance
Power
272hp @ 6500
186hp @ 6000
Torque
280lb-ft @ 1600
186lb-ft @ 4000
Engine
2.0 L/122cc
2.5 L/152cc
Choosing between the Acura Tlx and the Mazda Mazda3 is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Acura Tlx delivers 272hp @ 6500 while the Mazda Mazda3 produces 186hp @ 6000. Pricing starts at $37,500 for the Tlx and $27,090 for the Mazda3. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
272hp @ 6500
186hp @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft)
280lb-ft @ 1600
186lb-ft @ 4000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.0 L/122cc
2.5 L/152cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
—
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
—
6
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive
Front Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
22mpg
27 (Est)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
31mpg
36 (Est)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
15.9gal
13.2gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
194.6in
183.5in
Width (in)
75.2in
70.7in
Height (in)
56.4in
56.9in
Wheelbase (in)
113in
107.3in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3709lbs
3111lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
—
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
—
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Mazda Mazda3
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Mazda3
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
Acura Tlx
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Mazda Mazda3
Lower starting price ($27,090)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Tlx or Mazda3?
The Tlx produces 272hp @ 6500 and 280lb-ft @ 1600 of torque while the Mazda3 delivers 186hp @ 6000 and 186lb-ft @ 4000 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Tlx and Mazda3?
The Tlx starts from $37,500 and the Mazda3 from $27,090. The Mazda3 is cheaper by $10,410 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the Tlx or the Mazda3?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.
Also Consider