2026 Nissan Sentra SR vs 2026 Subaru Impreza RS
On paper, the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS wins on 31 more hp, 32 more lb-ft torque, AWD. The 2026 Nissan Sentra SR has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $4,495 price gap, 149 vs 180 hp.
The Sentra SR leads on $4,495 less. The Impreza RS leads on 31 more hp, 32 more lb-ft torque. 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 Nissan Sentra SR | 2026 Subaru Impreza RS |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $25,000 | $29,495 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 149 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 146 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | No published data | 26 |
| Highway MPG | No published data | 33 |
| Combined MPG | No published data | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal | 16.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,500/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,153 lbs | 3,275 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.5" | 105.1" |
| Length | 183.3" | 176.2" |
| Width | 71.5" | 70.1" |
| Height | 57.1" | 58.3" |
| 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 Nissan Sentra SR and 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Nissan Sentra SR starts at $25,000, $4,495 less than the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS at $29,495. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $79/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR?
The 2026 Nissan Sentra SR is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,495 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS is the stronger pick when the extra 31 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR or 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS produces 180 hp, 31 more than the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR at 149 hp. The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS also leads in torque at 178 lb-ft vs 146 lb-ft. The 2026 Nissan Sentra SR runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS uses a 2.5L flat 4. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR, AWD on the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS.
Is the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR bigger than the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Nissan Sentra SR is 7.1″ longer at 183.3″ vs 176.2″. The 2026 Nissan Sentra SR has a 1.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR and 2026 Subaru Impreza RS have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS comes with AWD, while the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR 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?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Nissan trims, Nissan Sentra trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Impreza trims
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Sentra vs Impreza: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Nissan Sentra SR and 2026 Subaru Impreza RS are both compact cars competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $4,495 gap adds up to $79/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 Nissan Sentra SR runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS has 31 more hp (180 vs 149), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS adds 32 more lb-ft of torque (178 vs 146), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS comes with AWD; the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR when you want to keep $4,495 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS when the extra 31 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $79/month more, the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS 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 Nissan or Subaru or any dealership.