Mazda 3 vs Dodge Challenger
The Mazda 3 is the more efficient of the two: it reaches 33 mpg combined versus 23 mpg for the Dodge Challenger, a 10 mpg advantage and costs about $800 less per year to fuel.
Across 5 measured categories, the Mazda 3 leads in 5. Figures are EPA test data, not manufacturer claims.
2015–2023
Dodge Challenger
Midsize Cars · 95 configurations
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Mazda 3 | Dodge Challenger |
|---|---|---|
| Best combined MPG | 33 mpg ✓ | 23 mpg |
| Best city MPG | 30 mpg ✓ | 19 mpg |
| Best highway MPG | 40 mpg ✓ | 30 mpg |
| Lowest annual fuel costEPA estimate at 15,000 miles per year | $1,850 ✓ | $2,650 |
| Lowest CO2 output | 266 g/mi ✓ | 389 g/mi |
| Engines offered | SIDI, SIDI; With Cylinder Deactivation, SIDI; Without Cylinder Deactivation, SIDI; with i-ELOOP Technology Package | 3.6, 5.7, 6.4, 6.2 |
| Transmissions | Automatic (S6), Manual 6-spd | Automatic 8-spd, Manual 6-spd |
| Drivetrains | 4-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel types | Regular | Regular, Midgrade, Premium |
| EPA class | Midsize Cars | Midsize Cars |
| Years covered | 2015–2026 | 2015–2023 |
| Configurations on record | 97 | 95 |
Source: EPA fuel economy records via fueleconomy.gov. Best-case values across all recorded configurations for each model.
3 vs Challenger: common questions
Which is better on gas, the Mazda 3 or the Dodge Challenger?
The Mazda 3 is the more efficient of the two: it reaches 33 mpg combined versus 23 mpg for the Dodge Challenger, a 10 mpg advantage and costs about $800 less per year to fuel.
Which costs less to run per year?
By EPA estimates at 15,000 miles a year, the Mazda 3 runs about $1,850 a year in fuel at its most efficient configuration, versus about $2,650 for the Dodge Challenger — a difference of roughly $800 per year.
What engines do the 3 and Challenger offer?
Mazda 3: SIDI, SIDI; With Cylinder Deactivation, SIDI; Without Cylinder Deactivation, SIDI; with i-ELOOP Technology Package. Dodge Challenger: 3.6, 5.7, 6.4, 6.2.
Are they in the same vehicle class?
Yes — the EPA classifies both the Mazda 3 and the Dodge Challenger as Midsize Cars, so they compete directly.
More 3 comparisons
Comparison id: mazda-3-vs-dodge-challenger