The 2027 Subaru Impreza is the comparison choice for daily drivers, delivering standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a versatile 5-door hatchback layout with about 20 cu ft of cargo space, and an efficient 29 MPG combined fuel rating at an accessible starting MSRP of $24,595. While the 2026 Subaru WRX provides high-output 271 hp performance, the Impreza delivers practical utility, ownership costs, and all-weather capability for routine commuting and family schedules.

The 2027 Subaru Impreza is the more versatile and cost-effective vehicle for daily driving, combining standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with a 5-door hatchback configuration that maximizes cargo utility compared to the 2026 Subaru WRX sedan.

When evaluating these two vehicles, understanding their underlying engineering focus helps clarify which model fits your routine. Built on the Subaru Global Platform, the 2027 Subaru Impreza prioritizes all-weather capability, smooth ride comfort, and exceptional fuel efficiency. Its lower ride height compared to crossovers keeps handling sharp while maintaining easy cabin entry and exit. Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive continuously routes power to all four wheels, delivering planted stability when unexpected rain or winter weather strikes local roads.

Conversely, the 2026 Subaru WRX is engineered as a rally-inspired performance sedan. With its firmer suspension tuning, aggressive exterior styling, and high-output turbocharged engine, the WRX is designed to maximize driver engagement on back roads and closed tracks. However, this focus on high-rpm capability comes at the expense of fuel economy, ride compliance, and interior cargo volume.

For active suburban commuters who regularly navigate rolling hills and varying weather conditions, the Impreza delivers the perfect balance of foul-weather traction, flexible passenger space, and long-term operating value. You can explore new Impreza models in stock today, view new WRX sedans available for enthusiast comparison, or browse our complete selection of new vehicles at Sunset Hills Subaru.

Capacity and dimensions by trim

The 2027 Subaru Impreza offers a significantly lower barrier to entry, starting at $24,595 base MSRP for the 2.5 CVT trim, which is $7,900 less than the base 2026 Subaru WRX at $32,495 base MSRP.

Subaru structured the 2027 Impreza lineup around accessible pricing and high standard feature content. The entry-level Impreza 2.5 CVT trim carries a base MSRP of $24,595 with a $1,245 destination charge. Moving up to the sportier 2.5 RS CVT trim elevates the base MSRP to $29,495, introducing a larger 2.5L Subaru BOXER engine, 18-inch alloy wheels, wireless smartphone integration, and available premium audio.

The 2026 Subaru WRX lineup operates in a higher price tier due to its specialized performance hardware. The lineup starts with the Base AWD trim at $32,495 base MSRP, followed by the Limited trim at $38,995 base MSRP, and tops out with the feature-packed GT CVT trim at $44,995 base MSRP. All WRX trims carry a $1,195 destination charge.

For budget-conscious buyers and growing households, the Impreza delivers unmatched financial value. Even the fully equipped Impreza 2.5 RS CVT trim costs $3,000 less than an entry-level WRX Base AWD model. That price difference allows buyers to enjoy premium cabin tech, heated front seats, and advanced driver-assist systems while keeping monthly payments manageable. If you are considering upgrading your current vehicle, our team can help you value your trade online to see how much equity you can apply toward your purchase, or you can browse our pre-owned inventory options to compare regional vehicle value trends.

Manufacturer-listed pricing per trim, across compared vehicles.

The 2027 Subaru Impreza provides superior cargo flexibility thanks to its 5-door hatchback design, offering about 20 cu ft of storage volume behind the rear seats compared to the 2026 Subaru WRX sedan's about 12.5 cu ft trunk.

Interior layout and cargo versatility represent two of the largest functional differences between these sibling vehicles. Both vehicles feature standard 5-passenger seating with 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks, but their body styles dictate how effectively that space can be utilized. The Impreza's hatchback tailgate opens wide to a flat cargo floor, making it simple to load bulky items like bicycles, strollers, camping gear, or large grocery hauls. Lowering the rear seats in the Impreza expands total available cargo capacity to about 56 cu ft, turning the compact hatchback into a highly capable gear hauler.

In contrast, the WRX is restricted by its traditional 4-door sedan body style. Its about 12.5 cu ft trunk is suitable for luggage or golf bags, but the narrower trunk opening and fixed rear deck lid prevent it from carrying taller or irregularly shaped items.

In terms of passenger accommodations, both vehicles offer comfortable room for adult passengers. The Impreza provides 39.8 in of front headroom and 38.0 in of rear headroom, alongside 42.9 in of front legroom and 36.5 in of rear legroom. The WRX matches front headroom at 39.8 in(reducing slightly to 38.8 in on trims with a moonroof) and offers 43.1 in of front legroom with an identical 36.5 in of rear legroom. However, for weekend recreation near local parks or Creve Coeur Lake, the Impreza's open-concept hatchback cargo hold provides practical advantages that a sedan trunk cannot match. Drivers ready to secure their next vehicle can start by prequalifying for financing online through our secure digital application.

Powertrain specs by trim

While the 2026 Subaru WRX leads in absolute speed with its 271 hp turbocharged engine, the 2027 Subaru Impreza delivers a smoother, more relaxed driving experience with 180 hp that is perfectly matched for everyday suburban commuting.

Under the hood, the 2027 Impreza features a naturally aspirated Subaru BOXER engine producing 180 hp at 5,800 rpm and 178 lb-ft of torque at 3,700 rpm. Paired with a Lineartronic CVT featuring steering-wheel paddle shifters and manual mode, the Impreza delivers linear acceleration and quiet highway cruising. Its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system continuously balances power delivery between the front and rear axles, providing immediate grip on wet asphalt, loose gravel, or icy inclines.

The 2026 Subaru WRX targets hardcore driving enthusiasts with a 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder Subaru BOXER engine generating 271 hp at 5,600 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque across a broad 2,000 to 5,200 rpm band. Transmission choices include a precise 6-speed manual with a short-throw shifter package or the Subaru Performance Transmission (CVT) with adaptive shift control.

While the WRX delivers impressive acceleration and cornering grip on smooth tarmac, its sport-tuned suspension transmits significantly more road bumps and cabin noise to passengers. The Impreza features a compliant four-wheel independent suspension—utilizing front MacPherson struts with coil springs and a rear double-wishbone design—that absorbs pavement imperfections effortlessly. For drivers navigating daily stop-and-go traffic and rolling neighborhood streets, the Impreza provides a composed, low-stress ride. Enthusiasts looking to customize their vehicle's versatility can order genuine Subaru accessories and parts directly through our certified dealership catalog.

Fuel economy and range by trim

The 2027 Subaru Impreza is significantly more fuel-efficient than the WRX. The Impreza achieves an EPA-estimated 26 city / 33 hwy / 29 combined MPG and runs on 87 octane regular unleaded gasoline. The 2026 Subaru WRX manual model yields 19 city / 26 hwy / 22 combined MPG(and 18 city / 25 hwy / 21 combined MPG for the GT CVT trim) while requiring 91 octane premium unleaded fuel.

The 2027 Subaru Impreza 5-door hatchback offers about 20 cu ft of cargo volume behind the rear seats, which expands to about 56 cu ft when the 60/40-split rear seats are folded flat. The 2026 Subaru WRX 4-door sedan features a fixed trunk space measuring about 12.5 cu ft, making the Impreza much better suited for carrying larger outdoor gear, sports equipment, and family cargo.

The 2027 Subaru Impreza 2.5 CVT starts at a base MSRP of $24,595(plus $1,245 destination charge). The 2026 Subaru WRX Base AWD starts at $32,495 base MSRP (plus $1,195 destination charge). This creates a starting price difference of $7,900, making the Impreza a far more accessible entry point for all-wheel-drive driving.

Yes, both vehicles come standard with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive across every trim level. The Impreza uses a full-time AWD system tuned for smooth power transfer and maximum fuel economy, while the WRX utilizes performance-oriented AWD systems (Continuous AWD on manual models and Variable Torque Distribution AWD on GT CVT models) designed for high-speed cornering traction.

The 2027 Subaru Impreza offers a slightly broader standard safety package for families, featuring 9 standard airbags (including rear seat side-impact airbags) and standard EyeSight® Driver Assist technology with adaptive cruise control on all models. The WRX includes 7 standard airbags and features EyeSight® across its lineup, but manual-transmission WRX trims lack automated stop-and-go adaptive cruise capabilities.