2025 Toyota Corolla XSE vs 2026 Subaru Impreza RS
$1,455 less and 5 mpg better vs 27 more lb-ft torque and AWD. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $1,455 price gap, 169 vs 180 hp, 34 vs 29 MPG.
The Corolla XSE leads on $1,455 less, 5 MPG better. The Impreza RS leads on 27 more lb-ft torque, AWD. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 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 Toyota Corolla XSE | 2026 Subaru Impreza RS |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $28,040 | $29,495 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 169 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 151 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 31 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 38 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 34 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 16.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,500/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,150 lbs | 3,275 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 105.1" |
| Length | 182.5" | 176.2" |
| Width | 70.1" | 70.1" |
| Height | 56.5" | 58.3" |
| 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 | 2yr/25k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE and 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE starts at $28,040, $1,455 less than the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS at $29,495. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $25/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE?
The 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,455 in your pocket and the 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $213/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS is the stronger pick when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE or 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE rates 34 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE or 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS produces 180 hp, 11 more than the 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE at 169 hp. The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS also leads in torque at 178 lb-ft vs 151 lb-ft. The 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS uses a 2.5L flat 4. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE, AWD on the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS.
Is the 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE bigger than the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE is 6.3″ longer at 182.5″ vs 176.2″. The 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE has a 1.2″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE and 2026 Subaru Impreza RS have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS comes with AWD, while the 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE 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: Toyota trims, Toyota Corolla trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Impreza trims
- 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Corolla–Impreza Decision
Shopping compact cars means the Corolla and Impreza will likely end up on the same test-drive day. Here is what the numbers say before you get behind the wheel. The $1,455 gap is about $25/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 11 hp difference (180 vs 169) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS comes with AWD; the 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE saves roughly $213/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,065. The 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE when you want to keep $1,455 in your pocket and the 2025 Toyota Corolla XSE covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. At $25/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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 Toyota or Subaru or any dealership.