2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus vs 2026 Subaru Impreza RS
47 more hp and 132 more lb-ft torque vs $8,395 less and 3 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 227 vs 180 hp, 26 vs 29 MPG.
The 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus leads on 47 more hp, 132 more lb-ft torque. The Impreza RS leads on $8,395 less, 3 MPG better. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus | 2026 Subaru Impreza RS |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $37,890 | $29,495 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 227 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.7 gal | 16.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,500/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,417 lbs | 3,275 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.3" | 105.1" |
| Length | 175.6" | 176.2" |
| Width | 70.7" | 70.1" |
| Height | 56.7" | 58.3" |
| Safety | ||
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus and 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS starts at $29,495, $8,395 less than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus at $37,890. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $148/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus is the stronger pick when the extra 47 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS is the stronger pick when you want to keep $8,395 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $167/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus or 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS rates 29 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus or 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus produces 227 hp, 47 more than the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS at 180 hp. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus bigger than the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS is 0.6″ longer at 176.2″ vs 175.6″. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus has a 2.2″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Mazda trims, Mazda 3 trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Impreza trims
How the 3 and Impreza Stack Up
Two compact cars, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus starts at $37,890; the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS at $29,495. The $-8,395 gap adds up to $148/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: 3 vs Impreza
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus has 47 more hp (227 vs 180), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus adds 132 more lb-ft of torque (310 vs 178), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS saves roughly $167/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $835.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus when the extra 47 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS when you want to keep $8,395 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 Mazda or Subaru or any dealership.