2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid vs 2026 Subaru Impreza RS
18 mpg better and 17.1″ longer vs $8,755 less and AWD. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 192 vs 180 hp, 47 vs 29 MPG.
The Sonata Limited Hybrid leads on 18 MPG better, 17.1″ longer. The Impreza RS leads on $8,755 less, 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 | 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid | 2026 Subaru Impreza RS |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $38,250 | $29,495 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 hybrid | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 192 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | No published data | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 44 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 51 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 47 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 16.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $950/yr | $1,500/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,687 lbs | 3,275 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.8" | 105.1" |
| Length | 193.3" | 176.2" |
| Width | 73.2" | 70.1" |
| Height | 56.9" | 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 Sonata Limited Hybrid and 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS starts at $29,495, $8,755 less than the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid at $38,250. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $155/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $554/year less on fuel; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS is the stronger pick when you want to keep $8,755 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS covers your needs; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid or 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid rates 47 combined MPG, 18 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid or 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid produces 192 hp, 12 more than the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS at 180 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid runs a 2.0L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS uses a 2.5L flat 4. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid, AWD on the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid bigger than the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid is 17.1″ longer at 193.3″ vs 176.2″. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid has a 6.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid and 2026 Subaru Impreza RS have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS comes with AWD, while the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid 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 Sonata 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 Sonata trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Impreza trims
How the Sonata and Impreza Stack Up
Two midsize sedans, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid starts at $38,250; the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS at $29,495. The $-8,755 gap adds up to $155/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: Sonata vs Impreza
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid runs a 2.0L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 12 hp difference (192 vs 180) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS comes with AWD; the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid saves roughly $554/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $2,770.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid is 17.1″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid has a 6.7″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid weighs 412 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 2026 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $554/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS when you want to keep $8,755 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS 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 Hyundai or Subaru or any dealership.