2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line vs 2026 Subaru Impreza RS
On paper, the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line wins on 2 MPG better, 21 more hp, 9.2″ longer. The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $95 price gap, 201 vs 180 hp, 31 vs 29 MPG.
The Elantra N Line leads on 2 MPG better, 21 more hp. The Impreza RS leads on AWD. 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 | 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line | 2026 Subaru Impreza RS |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,400 | $29,495 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.6L I4 Turbo | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 201 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 195 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 7-speed automated manual | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 28 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 35 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 31 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal | 16.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,400/yr | $1,500/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,020 lbs | 3,275 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.1" | 105.1" |
| Length | 185.4" | 176.2" |
| Width | 71.9" | 70.1" |
| Height | 55.9" | 58.3" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line and 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line starts at $29,400, $95 less than the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS at $29,495. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line is the stronger pick when you want to keep $95 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $93/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 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line or 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line rates 31 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line or 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line produces 201 hp, 21 more than the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS at 180 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line also leads in torque at 195 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line runs a 1.6L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS uses a 2.5L flat 4. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line, AWD on the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line bigger than the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line is 9.2″ longer at 185.4″ vs 176.2″. The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line has a 2.0″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line and 2026 Subaru Impreza RS have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS comes with AWD, while the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line 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 Hyundai Elantra comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Subaru Impreza offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Elantra trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Impreza trims
Elantra vs Impreza: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line and 2026 Subaru Impreza RS are both compact cars competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $95 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line runs a 1.6L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line has 21 more hp (201 vs 180), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS comes with AWD; the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Elantra vs Impreza
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line saves roughly $93/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $465.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line when you want to keep $95 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
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 Hyundai or Subaru or any dealership.