2025 Mazda 3 vs. 2025 Honda Insight

When shopping for a compact car in 2025, two popular names that may surface are the Mazda 3 and the Honda Insight. Both offer sleek aesthetics, impressive fuel economy, and thoughtful engineering. However, they diverge significantly in terms of performance, technology integration, and current market presence. With Honda having discontinued the Insight and replaced it with the Civic Hybrid, this comparison gives you insight into how the last Insight stacks up against one of today's most refined compact cars.

Design & Style

The 2025 Mazda 3 stands out with a bold and refined exterior that's available in both sedan and hatchback body styles. It features sculpted lines, a wide front grille, and sharp LED lighting that gives it a premium look usually reserved for higher-end vehicles. Inside, it offers a driver-focused cabin with high-quality materials, available leather seating, and a minimalist yet modern dashboard layout.

The Honda Insight, although discontinued after the 2022 model year, was known for its clean, conservative design. Its hybrid badge didn't detract from its appearance, but compared to the 2025 Mazda 3, it lacks the visual flair and sportiness buyers often seek today. The interior was practical and comfortable, but lacked the upscale materials and artistic flair seen in newer competitors. While the Insight had its appeal, the Mazda 3 brings more personality and polish to the road.

Technology & Safety

Mazda has made significant strides in technology for the 2025 model year, with the Mazda 3 offering features like a larger infotainment display, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and available Alexa Built-in for connected experiences. It also includes i-Activsense safety technologies such as radar cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and smart brake support, providing peace of mind for daily driving.

The final generation of the Honda Insight came equipped with a competent suite of tech features, including a touchscreen interface, smartphone connectivity, and Honda Sensing safety features like adaptive cruise control and collision mitigation braking. While still functional and reliable, the Insight's tech platform feels dated against the more advanced and seamless systems in the Mazda 3. Furthermore, with production halted, software updates and newer innovations are no longer progressing for the Insight.

Performance

Under the hood, the 2025 Mazda 3 gives drivers a choice between a standard 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine producing 191 horsepower and an available turbocharged variant with up to 250 horsepower on premium fuel. Whether paired with front-wheel or all-wheel drive, the Mazda 3 delivers a confident and athletic driving experience. The suspension is tuned for balance, giving drivers both comfort and sportiness, while steering remains sharp and responsive.

On the other hand, the Honda Insight featured a hybrid powertrain that combined a 1.5-liter gas engine with an electric motor, delivering a modest 151 horsepower. While fuel efficiency was impressive-up to 55 mpg in the city-the overall driving experience was more focused on economy than engagement. It lacked the acceleration and handling dynamics that make the Mazda 3 a fun daily driver. If you're looking for excitement behind the wheel, the Mazda 3 offers more versatility and power.

The Bottom Line

When comparing these two vehicles, the Mazda 3 clearly offers a more compelling package for 2025. It excels in design, interior craftsmanship, and driving enjoyment, all while offering modern tech and safety. The Honda Insight, while efficient and well-built, has reached the end of its lifecycle and is no longer in production. As a result, long-term support and technological relevance are diminishing.

If fuel economy is your top priority and you find a well-maintained used Insight, it might serve your needs. However, for drivers who value a fresh design, responsive handling, and advanced features wrapped in a stylish package, the Mazda 3 stands out as the smarter and more satisfying choice.

Schedule a Test Drive Today

If you're ready to experience the 2025 Mazda 3 for yourself, we invite you to schedule a test drive with us at Riley Mazda in Stamford, CT. Our team is here to help you explore all trim levels, features, and financing options so you can drive away in a vehicle that suits your lifestyle. Contact us today or stop by our showroom-we're excited to help you get behind the wheel of your next favorite car.