2026 Subaru Legacy Base vs 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Jetta S starts at $24,440, $755 less. Jetta S leads with 34 MPG. Legacy Base makes 182 hp (+24).
| Spec | 2026 Subaru Legacy Base | 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $25,195 +$755 | $24,440 Save $755 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L Flat-4 | 1.5L Turbo |
| Horsepower | 182 hp +24 hp | 158 hp 24 hp less |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | 8-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 3 less | 30 +3 |
| Hwy MPG | 35 6 less | 41 +6 |
| Combined MPG | 30 4 less | 34 +4 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 15.1 cu ft | 14.1 cu ft |
| Screen | 11.6" | 8.0" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | No |
| Heated Seats | No | No |
| Moonroof | No | No |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,449 lbs | 3,054 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.3" | 105.6" |
| Length | 190.6" | 187.1" |
| Wheels | 17" Alloy | 16" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | EyeSight | IQ.DRIVE |
Legacy Base or Jetta S?
Both are competitive. Jetta S has a lower entry price, Jetta S leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Subaru Legacy Base and 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Legacy Base or Jetta S?
Should I buy a 2026 Subaru Legacy or Volkswagen Jetta?
Which is more reliable, the Subaru Legacy or Volkswagen Jetta?
Is the Subaru Legacy bigger than the Volkswagen Jetta?
What is the cost of insurance for the Legacy Base vs Jetta S?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Subaru Legacy Base?
Who Should Choose the Legacy Base
The 2026 Subaru Legacy Base appeals to buyers who prioritize what Subaru does best: refinement and reliability. At $25,195, it positions itself as the more powerful option.
Subaru ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: Legacy Base vs Legacy Sport, Legacy Base vs Legacy Touring XT, Legacy Sport vs Legacy Touring XT.
Who Should Choose the Jetta S
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price. Superior fuel economy at 34 combined MPG is a genuine running-cost advantage.
Volkswagen's approach to this sedan emphasizes a balance of features and value. If that aligns with your priorities, the Jetta S deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $755 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Legacy Base 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 24 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, wireless CarPlay, 24 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. A 24 hp difference is noticeable during merging, passing, and hill climbs. 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 Subaru and Volkswagen 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.