2026 Kia K5 LXS vs 2026 Subaru Legacy Base
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Legacy Base starts at $25,195, $3,895 less. K5 LXS leads with 32 MPG. Legacy Base makes 182 hp (+2).
| Spec | 2026 Kia K5 LXS | 2026 Subaru Legacy Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,090 +$3,895 | $25,195 Save $3,895 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.6L Turbo | 2.5L Flat-4 |
| Horsepower | 180 hp 2 hp less | 182 hp +2 hp |
| Torque | 195 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-Spd AT | CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 29 +2 | 27 2 less |
| Hwy MPG | 38 +3 | 35 3 less |
| Combined MPG | 32 +2 | 30 2 less |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 16.0 cu ft | 15.1 cu ft |
| Screen | 12.3" | 11.6" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | No | No |
| Moonroof | No | No |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,340 lbs | 3,449 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 112.2" | 108.3" |
| Length | 193.1" | 190.6" |
| Wheels | 17" Alloy | 17" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | Drive Wise | EyeSight |
K5 LXS or Legacy Base?
Both are competitive. Legacy Base has a lower entry price, K5 LXS leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Kia K5 LXS and 2026 Subaru Legacy Base?
Which gets better gas mileage, the K5 LXS or Legacy Base?
Should I buy a 2026 Kia K5 or Subaru Legacy?
Which is more reliable, the Kia K5 or Subaru Legacy?
Is the Kia K5 bigger than the Subaru Legacy?
What is the cost of insurance for the K5 LXS vs Legacy Base?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Kia K5 LXS?
Who Should Choose the K5 LXS
The 2026 Kia K5 LXS appeals to buyers who prioritize what Kia does best: refinement and reliability. At $29,090, it positions itself as the more feature-rich option.
Fuel economy is a clear strength here — 32 combined MPG means lower running costs over the life of the vehicle. Kia ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: K5 LXS vs K5 GT-Line, K5 LXS vs K5 GT, K5 GT-Line vs K5 GT.
Who Should Choose the Legacy Base
The 2026 Subaru Legacy Base is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price. With 182 hp, it also delivers stronger performance.
Subaru's approach to this sedan emphasizes a balance of features and value. If that aligns with your priorities, the Legacy Base deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $3,895 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The K5 LXS is positioned higher, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Legacy Base makes 2 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen also contribute. Both are competitive within the sedan market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. The horsepower difference here is modest enough that most commuters won't notice it. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these sedans will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Sedans Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe sedans with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between Kia and Subaru often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.