2026 Hyundai Sonata SE vs 2025 Subaru Legacy Base
2 mpg better vs $640 less and AWD. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 191 vs 182 hp, 32 vs 30 MPG.
The Sonata SE leads on 2 MPG better. The Legacy Base leads on $640 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 SE | 2025 Subaru Legacy Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $27,450 | $26,810 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 191 hp | 182 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | 176 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 28 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 38 | 35 |
| Combined MPG | 32 | 30 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.9 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,450/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,232 lbs | 3,492 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.8" | 108.3" |
| Length | 193.3" | 191.1" |
| Width | 73.2" | 72.4" |
| Height | 56.9" | 59.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| 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 SE and 2025 Subaru Legacy Base?
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base starts at $26,810, $640 less than the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE at $27,450. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $11/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $88/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base?
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base is the stronger pick when you want to keep $640 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base covers your needs; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE or 2025 Subaru Legacy Base?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE rates 32 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE or 2025 Subaru Legacy Base?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE produces 191 hp, 9 more than the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base at 182 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE also leads in torque at 181 lb-ft vs 176 lb-ft. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base uses a 2.5L flat 4. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE, AWD on the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE bigger than the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE is 2.2″ longer at 193.3″ vs 191.1″. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE has a 3.5″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE and 2025 Subaru Legacy Base have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base comes with AWD, while the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE 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 Legacy 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 Legacy trims
- 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Subaru Legacy Base Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Sonata vs Legacy: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE and 2025 Subaru Legacy Base are both midsize sedans competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $-640 gap is about $11/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 9 hp difference (191 vs 182) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Base comes with AWD; the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Sonata vs Legacy
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE saves roughly $88/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $440.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $88/year less on fuel. Choose the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base when you want to keep $640 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Legacy Base 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.