2026 Nissan Sentra vs 2025 Mazda MAZDA3

Last redesigned for the 2019 model year, the Mazda 3 is getting old, yet aging gracefully. It still looks, feels, and drives better than some of its rivals. In Canada, GT and above trims get Amazon Alexa Built-in for 2025, while the Sport hatchback adds the new Suna Edition as the top model based on the GT Turbo.

Verdict: Available in four-door sedan and five-door hatchback body styles, there is a Mazda 3 to suit nearly anyone. Basic or upscale, turbocharged or not, and with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), the common threads across all Mazda 3s are quality, refinement, sophistication, safety, and enjoyable driving dynamics. This is a terrific compact car.

If you’re hoping for a more powerful Sentra, the new 2026 model won’t bring you joy. However, if you have the need for speed, you’re likely not a typical Sentra buyer. Instead of focusing on what’s under the hood, Nissan has imbued the 2026 Sentra with tech and features that more and more shoppers are coming to value. Bright touchscreens, comfortable seats, and a stylish design make this the most appealing Sentra in recent memory.

Verdict: The 2026 Nissan Sentra is a stylish and safe compact sedan that delivers impressive technology at an attractive, affordable price. It’s not the most thrilling car in its segment (look to the Honda Civic or Mazda3 for that honour), but it nevertheless delivers premium, in-demand features.