2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL vs 2026 Subaru Impreza RS
5 mpg better and 10.3″ longer vs $500 less and 22 more hp. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 158 vs 180 hp, 34 vs 29 MPG.
The Jetta SEL leads on 5 MPG better, 10.3″ longer. The Impreza RS leads on $500 less, 22 more hp. The spec table compares 8 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 8 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 Volkswagen Jetta SEL | 2026 Subaru Impreza RS |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,995 | $29,495 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 158 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 29 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 40 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 34 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 16.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,300/yr | $1,500/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,058 lbs | 3,275 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.7" | 105.1" |
| Length | 186.5" | 176.2" |
| Width | 70.8" | 70.1" |
| Height | 57.7" | 58.3" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 4yr/50k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 12yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/50k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL and 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS starts at $29,495, $500 less than the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL at $29,995. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
Who should choose the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $213/year less on fuel; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS is the stronger pick when you want to keep $500 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS 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.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL or 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL rates 34 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL or 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS produces 180 hp, 22 more than the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL at 158 hp. The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL also leads in torque at 184 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS uses a 2.5L flat 4. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL, AWD on the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS.
Is the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL bigger than the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL is 10.3″ longer at 186.5″ vs 176.2″. The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL has a 0.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL and 2026 Subaru Impreza RS have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS comes with AWD, while the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL 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?
The Volkswagen Jetta comes with 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. The Subaru Impreza offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Jetta trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Impreza trims
- 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Jetta vs Impreza: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL 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 $-500 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS has 22 more hp (180 vs 158), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS comes with AWD; the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Jetta vs Impreza
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL saves roughly $213/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,065.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL is 10.3″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $213/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS when you want to keep $500 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS covers your needs.
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 Volkswagen or Subaru or any dealership.