2026 Subaru WRX tS vs 2026 Cadillac CT5 V
$12,605 less and awd vs 89 more hp and 147 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $12,605 price gap, 271 vs 360 hp, 22 vs 22 MPG.
The WRX tS leads on $12,605 less, AWD. The CT5 V leads on 89 more hp, 147 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 Subaru WRX tS | 2026 Cadillac CT5 V |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $44,995 | $57,600 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L flat 4 Turbo | 3.0L V6 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 271 hp | 360 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 405 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 10-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | RWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 19 |
| Highway MPG | 26 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 22 | 22 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 17.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,650/yr | $2,650/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,430 lbs | 3,974 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.2" | 116.0" |
| Length | 183.8" | 193.8" |
| Width | 71.9" | 74.1" |
| Height | 57.8" | 57.2" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 6yr/70k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 6yr/70k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Subaru WRX tS and 2026 Cadillac CT5 V?
The 2026 Subaru WRX tS starts at $44,995, $12,605 less than the 2026 Cadillac CT5 V at $57,600. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $222/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru WRX tS?
The 2026 Subaru WRX tS is the stronger pick when you want to keep $12,605 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru WRX tS covers your needs; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2026 Cadillac CT5 V?
The 2026 Cadillac CT5 V is the stronger pick when the extra 89 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Subaru WRX tS or 2026 Cadillac CT5 V?
Both achieve 22 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Subaru WRX tS or 2026 Cadillac CT5 V?
The 2026 Cadillac CT5 V produces 360 hp, 89 more than the 2026 Subaru WRX tS at 271 hp. The 2026 Cadillac CT5 V also leads in torque at 405 lb-ft vs 258 lb-ft. The 2026 Subaru WRX tS runs a 2.4L flat 4 Turbo; the 2026 Cadillac CT5 V uses a 3.0L V6 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Subaru WRX tS, RWD on the 2026 Cadillac CT5 V.
Is the 2026 Subaru WRX tS bigger than the 2026 Cadillac CT5 V?
The 2026 Cadillac CT5 V is 10.0″ longer at 193.8″ vs 183.8″. The 2026 Cadillac CT5 V has a 10.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Subaru WRX tS and 2026 Cadillac CT5 V have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Subaru WRX tS comes with AWD, while the 2026 Cadillac CT5 V uses RWD. 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?
The Subaru WRX comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Cadillac CT5 offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 6yr/70k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Subaru trims, Subaru WRX trims, Cadillac trims, Cadillac CT5 trims
- 2026 Subaru WRX tS Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Cadillac CT5 V Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the WRX and CT5 Stack Up
Two compact cars, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2026 Subaru WRX tS starts at $44,995; the 2026 Cadillac CT5 V at $57,600. The $12,605 gap adds up to $222/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: WRX vs CT5
The 2026 Subaru WRX tS runs a 2.4L flat 4 Turbo; the 2026 Cadillac CT5 V uses a 3.0L V6 Turbo. The 2026 Cadillac CT5 V has 89 more hp (360 vs 271). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Cadillac CT5 V adds 147 more lb-ft of torque (405 vs 258), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2026 Subaru WRX tS comes with AWD; the 2026 Cadillac CT5 V uses RWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
What It Actually Costs to Own
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2026 Cadillac CT5 V is 10.0″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Cadillac CT5 V has a 10.8″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2026 Cadillac CT5 V weighs 544 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Subaru WRX tS when you want to keep $12,605 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru WRX tS covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Cadillac CT5 V when the extra 89 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $222/month more, the 2026 Cadillac CT5 V 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 Subaru or Cadillac or any dealership.