2026 Kia K5 GT vs 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT
On paper, the 2026 Kia K5 GT wins on $6,520 less, 4 MPG better, 30 more hp. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $6,520 price gap, 290 vs 260 hp, 30 vs 26 MPG.
The K5 GT leads on $6,520 less, 4 MPG better. The Legacy Touring XT 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 Kia K5 GT | 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $33,590 | $40,110 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 2.4L flat 4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 290 hp | 260 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automated manual | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 23 |
| Highway MPG | 37 | 31 |
| Combined MPG | 30 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.8 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,450/yr | $1,700/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,596 lbs | 3,787 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 112.2" | 108.3" |
| Length | 193.1" | 191.1" |
| Width | 73.2" | 72.4" |
| Height | 56.9" | 59.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/100k | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Kia K5 GT and 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT?
The 2026 Kia K5 GT starts at $33,590, $6,520 less than the 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT at $40,110. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $114/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Kia K5 GT?
The 2026 Kia K5 GT is the stronger pick when you want to keep $6,520 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia K5 GT covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $215/year less on fuel; the extra 30 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT?
The 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT 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 Kia K5 GT or 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT?
The 2026 Kia K5 GT rates 30 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Kia K5 GT or 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT?
The 2026 Kia K5 GT produces 290 hp, 30 more than the 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT at 260 hp. The 2026 Kia K5 GT also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 277 lb-ft. The 2026 Kia K5 GT runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT uses a 2.4L flat 4 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2026 Kia K5 GT, AWD on the 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT.
Is the 2026 Kia K5 GT bigger than the 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT?
The 2026 Kia K5 GT is 2.0″ longer at 193.1″ vs 191.1″. The 2026 Kia K5 GT has a 3.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Kia K5 GT and 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT comes with AWD, while the 2026 Kia K5 GT 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 Kia K5 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: Kia trims, Kia K5 trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Legacy trims
- 2026 Kia K5 GT Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the K5 and Legacy Stack Up
Two midsize sedans, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2026 Kia K5 GT starts at $33,590; the 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT at $40,110. The $6,520 gap adds up to $114/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: K5 vs Legacy
The 2026 Kia K5 GT runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT uses a 2.4L flat 4 Turbo. The 2026 Kia K5 GT has 30 more hp (290 vs 260), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Kia K5 GT adds 34 more lb-ft of torque (311 vs 277), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT comes with AWD; the 2026 Kia K5 GT uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Kia K5 GT saves roughly $215/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,075. The 2026 Kia K5 GT wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Kia K5 GT when you want to keep $6,520 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia K5 GT covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. At $114/month more, the 2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
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 Kia or Subaru or any dealership.