VS
At a Glance
Power
186hp @ 6000
194hp @ 6000
Torque
186lb-ft @ 4000
139lb-ft @ 4400
Engine
2.5 L/152cc
2.0 L/121cc
Choosing between the Mazda Mazda3 and the Toyota Prius is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Mazda Mazda3 delivers 186hp @ 6000 while the Toyota Prius produces 194hp @ 6000. Pricing starts at $28,440 for the Mazda3 and $31,995 for the Prius. 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
194hp @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft)
186lb-ft @ 4000
139lb-ft @ 4400
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.5 L/152cc
2.0 L/121cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
6
—
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive
Front Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
26 (Est)mpg
52 (2025)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
34 (Est)mpg
52 (2025)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
13.2gal
11.3gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
175.6in
181.1in
Width (in)
70.7in
70.2in
Height (in)
56.7in
56.3in
Wheelbase (in)
107.3in
108.3in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3117lbs
3164lbs
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
✓ 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 ($28,440)
Few notable weaknesses
Toyota Prius
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Mazda3 or Prius?
The Mazda3 produces 186hp @ 6000 and 186lb-ft @ 4000 of torque while the Prius delivers 194hp @ 6000 and 139lb-ft @ 4400 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Mazda3 and Prius?
The Mazda3 starts from $28,440 and the Prius from $31,995. The Mazda3 is cheaper by $3,555 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the Mazda3 or the Prius?
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