VS
At a Glance
Power
186hp @ 6000
228hp @ 6500
Torque
186lb-ft @ 4000
258lb-ft @ 4000
Engine
2.5 L/152cc
2.0 L/121cc
Choosing between the Mazda Mazda3 and the Volkswagen Jetta is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Mazda Mazda3 delivers 186hp @ 6000 while the Volkswagen Jetta produces 228hp @ 6500. Pricing starts at $31,360 for the Mazda3 and $33,745 for the Jetta. 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)
186hp @ 6000
228hp @ 6500
Torque (lb-ft)
186lb-ft @ 4000
258lb-ft @ 4000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.5 L/152cc
2.0 L/121cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
—
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Auto-Shift Manual w/OD
Number of Gears
6
7
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
Front Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
25 (Est)mpg
26mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
34 (Est)mpg
35mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
12.7gal
13.2gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
175.6in
186.9in
Width (in)
70.7in
70.8in
Height (in)
56.7in
57.3in
Wheelbase (in)
107.3in
105.6in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3247lbs
3311lbs
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
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Mazda Mazda3
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Mazda3
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
Mazda Mazda3
Lower starting price ($31,360)
Few notable weaknesses
Volkswagen Jetta
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Mazda3 or Jetta?
The Mazda3 produces 186hp @ 6000 and 186lb-ft @ 4000 of torque while the Jetta delivers 228hp @ 6500 and 258lb-ft @ 4000 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Mazda3 and Jetta?
The Mazda3 starts from $31,360 and the Jetta from $33,745. The Mazda3 is cheaper by $2,385 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the Mazda3 or the Jetta?
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