2026 Mazda Mazda3 2.5 Turbo vs 2026 Subaru Legacy Touring XT
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Mazda3 2.5 Turbo starts at $34,470, $2,875 less. Legacy Touring XT leads with 27 MPG. Legacy Touring XT makes 260 hp (+10).
| Spec | 2026 Mazda Mazda3 2.5 Turbo | 2026 Subaru Legacy Touring XT |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $34,470 Save $2,875 | $37,345 +$2,875 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L Turbo | 2.4L Turbo |
| Horsepower | 250 hp 10 hp less | 260 hp +10 hp |
| Torque | 320 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-Spd AT | CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 1 less | 24 +1 |
| Hwy MPG | 31 1 less | 32 +1 |
| Combined MPG | 26 1 less | 27 +1 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 13.2 cu ft | 15.1 cu ft |
| Screen | 10.25" | 11.6" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,473 lbs | 3,680 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.3" | 108.3" |
| Length | 184.8" | 190.6" |
| Wheels | 18" Alloy | 18" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | i-Activsense | EyeSight |
Mazda3 2.5 Turbo or Legacy Touring XT?
Both are competitive. Mazda3 2.5 Turbo has a lower entry price, Legacy Touring XT leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Mazda Mazda3 2.5 Turbo and 2026 Subaru Legacy Touring XT?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Mazda3 2.5 Turbo or Legacy Touring XT?
Should I buy a 2026 Mazda Mazda3 or Subaru Legacy?
Which is more reliable, the Mazda Mazda3 or Subaru Legacy?
Is the Mazda Mazda3 bigger than the Subaru Legacy?
What is the cost of insurance for the Mazda3 2.5 Turbo vs Legacy Touring XT?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Mazda Mazda3 2.5 Turbo?
Who Should Choose the Mazda3 2.5 Turbo
The 2026 Mazda Mazda3 2.5 Turbo appeals to buyers who want strong value without overspending. At $34,470, it undercuts the Legacy Touring XT by $2,875.
Mazda ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: Mazda3 2.5 S vs Mazda3 2.5 S Select, Mazda3 2.5 S vs Mazda3 2.5 Turbo, Mazda3 2.5 S Select vs Mazda3 2.5 Turbo.
Who Should Choose the Legacy Touring XT
The 2026 Subaru Legacy Touring XT is the better fit for buyers who value what the Subaru Legacy brings to the table. Superior fuel economy at 27 combined MPG is a genuine running-cost advantage. With 260 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 Touring XT deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $2,875 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Legacy Touring XT carries a premium, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Legacy Touring XT makes 10 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, 10 more horsepower 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 Mazda 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.