2026 Kia K5 GT vs 2026 Subaru Impreza RS
110 more hp and 133 more lb-ft torque vs $4,095 less and AWD. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 290 vs 180 hp, 30 vs 29 MPG.
The K5 GT leads on 110 more hp, 133 more lb-ft torque. The Impreza RS leads on $4,095 less, 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 | 2026 Subaru Impreza RS |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $33,590 | $29,495 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 290 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automated manual | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 37 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 30 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.8 gal | 16.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,450/yr | $1,500/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,596 lbs | 3,275 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 112.2" | 105.1" |
| Length | 193.1" | 176.2" |
| Width | 73.2" | 70.1" |
| Height | 56.9" | 58.3" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| 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 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS starts at $29,495, $4,095 less than the 2026 Kia K5 GT at $33,590. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $73/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 the extra 110 hp matters for your commute or driving style; 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 $4,095 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 Kia K5 GT or 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Kia K5 GT rates 30 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Kia K5 GT or 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Kia K5 GT produces 290 hp, 110 more than the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS at 180 hp. The 2026 Kia K5 GT also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Kia K5 GT runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS uses a 2.5L flat 4. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2026 Kia K5 GT, AWD on the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS.
Is the 2026 Kia K5 GT bigger than the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Kia K5 GT is 16.9″ longer at 193.1″ vs 176.2″. The 2026 Kia K5 GT has a 7.1″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Kia K5 GT and 2026 Subaru Impreza RS have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS 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 Impreza 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 Impreza trims
- 2026 Kia K5 GT Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
K5 vs Impreza: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Kia K5 GT and 2026 Subaru Impreza RS are both midsize sedans competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $-4,095 gap adds up to $73/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Kia K5 GT runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 2026 Kia K5 GT has 110 more hp (290 vs 180). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Kia K5 GT adds 133 more lb-ft of torque (311 vs 178), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS comes with AWD; the 2026 Kia K5 GT uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: K5 vs Impreza
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Kia K5 GT is 16.9″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Kia K5 GT has a 7.1″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2026 Kia K5 GT weighs 321 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Kia K5 GT when the extra 110 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS when you want to keep $4,095 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 Kia or Subaru or any dealership.