Searching for a great compact car you’ll enjoy driving every day? The 2026 Mazda3 is an excellent choice, but is it better than the Honda Civic? Here you will get to know these two models and how they compare in key areas with this guide from Mazda of Salem.

Power

The 2026 Mazda3 may not look huge from the outside, but it certainly packs a punch under the hood. The base engine is a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder that generates 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. There is also an available turbocharged 2.5-liter, four-cylinder that produces 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.

The base engine in the Honda Civic is a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that can only manage 150 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque. Its available engine — a hybrid engine that puts out 200 horsepower — also can’t compete with the new Mazda model.

Performance

Mazda vehicles are renowned for their athleticism, and the 2026 Mazda3 certainly won’t disappoint in this area. It has sports-car-like agility and offers tremendous driving engagement, even more so when you swap out the standard front-wheel drive for all-wheel drive.

The Honda Civic does have nice handling, but it’s not nearly as fun as the new Mazda3. Plus, it only has front-wheel drive as an option.

Technology

If you’re after a tech-savvy car, you will love what the 2026 Mazda3 offers. Standard features include Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®, Wi-Fi® hotspot capabilities, and an eight-speaker stereo. The Mazda Connect infotainment system is user-friendly and controlled with an 8.8-inch display.

The Honda Civic also has smartphone connectivity, but its stereo has just four speakers. In addition, its infotainment system uses a smaller seven-inch screen.

Explore the 2026 MAZDA3 in Salem, OR

As you can see, the 2026 Mazda3 is the winner all-around, from power and performance to technology options. If you want to see how else it tops the Honda Civic and other competitors, come down to our Mazda dealership in Salem, OR, to check it out in person. We can also let you know about the latest Mazda financing offers.