2026 Subaru Legacy Sport vs 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Jetta SE starts at $27,340, $2,605 less. Jetta SE leads with 34 MPG. Legacy Sport makes 260 hp (+102).
| Spec | 2026 Subaru Legacy Sport | 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,945 +$2,605 | $27,340 Save $2,605 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L Turbo | 1.5L Turbo |
| Horsepower | 260 hp +102 hp | 158 hp 102 hp less |
| Torque | 277 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | 8-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 24 6 less | 30 +6 |
| Hwy MPG | 32 9 less | 41 +9 |
| Combined MPG | 27 7 less | 34 +7 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 15.1 cu ft | 14.1 cu ft |
| Screen | 11.6" | 8.0" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,630 lbs | 3,083 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.3" | 105.6" |
| Length | 190.6" | 187.1" |
| Wheels | 18" Alloy | 17" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | EyeSight | IQ.DRIVE |
Legacy Sport or Jetta SE?
Both are competitive. Jetta SE has a lower entry price, Jetta SE leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Subaru Legacy Sport and 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Legacy Sport or Jetta SE?
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 Sport vs Jetta SE?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Subaru Legacy Sport?
Who Should Choose the Legacy Sport
The 2026 Subaru Legacy Sport appeals to buyers who prioritize what Subaru does best: refinement and reliability. At $29,945, 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 SE
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE 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 SE deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $2,605 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Legacy Sport is positioned higher, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Legacy Sport makes 102 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, 102 more horsepower, larger wheels 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 102 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.