2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT vs 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL
102 more hp and 93 more lb-ft torque vs $10,610 less and 7 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 260 vs 158 hp, 26 vs 33 MPG.
The Legacy Touring XT leads on 102 more hp, 93 more lb-ft torque. The Jetta SEL leads on $10,610 less, 7 MPG better. The spec table compares 8 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 8 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 Touring XT | 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $40,110 | $29,500 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L flat 4 Turbo | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 260 hp | 158 hp |
| Torque | 277 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 29 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 39 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 33 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.5 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | $1,350/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,787 lbs | 3,071 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.3" | 105.7" |
| Length | 191.1" | 186.5" |
| Width | 72.4" | 70.8" |
| Height | 59.1" | 57.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT and 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL?
The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL starts at $29,500, $10,610 less than the 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT at $40,110. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $187/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT?
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT is the stronger pick when the extra 102 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 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL?
The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL is the stronger pick when you want to keep $10,610 in your pocket and the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $342/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT or 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL?
The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL rates 33 combined MPG, 7 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT or 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL?
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT produces 260 hp, 102 more than the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL at 158 hp. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT also leads in torque at 277 lb-ft vs 184 lb-ft. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT runs a 2.4L flat 4 Turbo; the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT, FWD on the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL.
Is the 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT bigger than the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL?
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT is 4.6″ longer at 191.1″ vs 186.5″. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT has a 2.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT and 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT comes with AWD, while the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL 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?
The Subaru Legacy comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Volkswagen Jetta offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Subaru trims, Subaru Legacy trims, Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Jetta trims
How the Legacy and Jetta Stack Up
Two midsize sedans, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT starts at $40,110; the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL at $29,500. The $-10,610 gap adds up to $187/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Legacy vs Jetta
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT runs a 2.4L flat 4 Turbo; the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT has 102 more hp (260 vs 158). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT adds 93 more lb-ft of torque (277 vs 184), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT comes with AWD; the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL saves roughly $342/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,710.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT weighs 716 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT when the extra 102 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL when you want to keep $10,610 in your pocket and the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL 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 Volkswagen or any dealership.