Mental rotation (MR) is a fundamental spatial cognitive ability that is influenced by several factors, including cognitive traits. This study investigates the relationship between MR performance, cognitive traits (visual-verbal style, perspective taking, and cognitive flexibility), and brain activity using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Fifty-five participants (27 women) aged 19-35 completed MR tasks with 3D abstract pictures, bodily pictures, and manipulable objects during fMRI scanning. Participants also completed the Object-Spatial Imagery Questionnaire (OSIQ), the Cognitive Flexibility Scale, and a perspective taking test. Behavioral data (accuracy and reaction time) and neuroimaging data were analyzed to assess the impact of cognitive traits on MR performance and brain activation patterns. Behavioral analysis revealed that spatial visualizers outperformed object visualizers in MR tasks, showing higher accuracy and faster reaction times. Perspective taking ability was also positively correlated with MR performance. Neuroimaging results indicated that individuals with lower MR performance showed greater brain activation, particularly in motor and sensorimotor regions, supporting the neural efficiency hypothesis. Spatial visualizers, who performed better on MR tasks, showed more localized and reduced brain activation compared to object visualizers. The study highlights the influence of cognitive traits on MR performance and brain efficiency, with spatial visualizers showing more efficient neural processing. These findings contribute to our understanding of how cognitive styles shape spatial cognition and suggest potential for training interventions to enhance MR abilities and neural efficiency.