2025 Subaru Legacy Base vs 2026 Nissan Sentra S
On paper, the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base wins on 33 more hp, 30 more lb-ft torque, AWD. The 2026 Nissan Sentra S has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 182 vs 149 hp.
The Legacy Base leads on 33 more hp, 30 more lb-ft torque. The Sentra S leads on $4,210 less. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Subaru Legacy Base | 2026 Nissan Sentra S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $26,810 | $22,600 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 182 hp | 149 hp |
| Torque | 176 lb-ft | 146 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | No published data |
| Highway MPG | 35 | No published data |
| Combined MPG | 30 | No published data |
| Fuel Tank | 18.5 gal | 12.4 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,450/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,492 lbs | 3,097 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.3" | 106.5" |
| Length | 191.1" | 183.3" |
| Width | 72.4" | 71.5" |
| Height | 59.1" | 57.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base and 2026 Nissan Sentra S?
The 2026 Nissan Sentra S starts at $22,600, $4,210 less than the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base at $26,810. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $74/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base?
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base is the stronger pick when the extra 33 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Sentra S?
The 2026 Nissan Sentra S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,210 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Sentra S covers your needs.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base or 2026 Nissan Sentra S?
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base produces 182 hp, 33 more than the 2026 Nissan Sentra S at 149 hp. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base also leads in torque at 176 lb-ft vs 146 lb-ft. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Nissan Sentra S uses a 2.0L I4. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base, FWD on the 2026 Nissan Sentra S.
Is the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base bigger than the 2026 Nissan Sentra S?
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base is 7.8″ longer at 191.1″ vs 183.3″. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base has a 1.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base and 2026 Nissan Sentra S have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base comes with AWD, while the 2026 Nissan Sentra S uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Subaru trims, Subaru Legacy trims, Nissan trims, Nissan Sentra trims
- 2025 Subaru Legacy Base Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Legacy–Sentra Decision
Shopping midsize sedans means the Legacy and Sentra will likely end up on the same test-drive day. Here is what the numbers say before you get behind the wheel. The $-4,210 gap adds up to $74/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Nissan Sentra S uses a 2.0L I4. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base has 33 more hp (182 vs 149), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base adds 30 more lb-ft of torque (176 vs 146), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base comes with AWD; the 2026 Nissan Sentra S uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Living With the Legacy vs the Sentra
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base weighs 395 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base when the extra 33 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Nissan Sentra S when you want to keep $4,210 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Sentra S covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Subaru or Nissan or any dealership.