2026 Subaru Impreza Trim Levels: Which Impreza Fits Your Drive?

Subaru simplified the 2026 Impreza lineup down to two trims, Sport and RS, and both got a genuine upgrade for the new model year. Every Impreza now comes standard with an 11.6-inch touchscreen that used to be reserved for higher trims, plus a stiffer chassis for sharper handling on the curves of Highway 17. For Santa Cruz and Capitola drivers comparing 2026 Subaru Impreza trim levels, here’s what separates the Sport from the RS, and which one fits your daily drive.

2026 Subaru Impreza Trim Levels & Starting MSRP

Sport: $26,595
RS: $29,495

Pricing Note: All figures above reflect starting MSRP. Santa Cruz Subaru regularly offers dealer specials and incentives that bring your actual price even lower, making us one of the best places in Capitola to get a deal on a new Impreza.

What Every 2026 Impreza Includes

Even the entry point Sport trim comes well-equipped:

• Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
• EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
• 11.6-inch STARLINK Multimedia Plus touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Keyless Access with Push-Button Start
• 60/40-split folding rear seats

Most competitors in this class require you to climb a trim or two just to get standard AWD, let alone a screen this size.

The Sport: The Smart, Efficient Starting Point

The Sport runs a 2.0-liter BOXER engine making 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, paired with Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT. It’s the right call if you want AWD confidence for foggy coastal mornings and a stress-free commute through Santa Cruz without paying for extras you won’t use. An optional $1,900 package adds Blind-Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Automatic Emergency Steering, Emergency Lane Keep Assist, the All-Weather Package, and a power moonroof, letting Sport buyers add RS-level safety tech without the full step up in price.

The RS: Sharper, Stronger, Better Equipped

The RS steps up to a revised 2.5-liter BOXER engine with 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, giving it noticeably more passing power for merges onto Highway 1. Unlike the Sport, the RS makes Blind-Spot Detection, Automatic Emergency Steering, Emergency Lane Keep Assist, and the All-Weather Package standard, not optional. It also adds:

• 18-inch dark gray alloy wheels and unique RS badging
• Sport front seats with red-accented cloth bolsters
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter
• Steering wheel paddle shifters with 8-speed manual mode
• Wireless phone charger

Sport vs. RS: Which Is Right for You?

• Choose the Sport if you want AWD value and commute-friendly power without paying for extras.
• Choose the RS if you want stronger acceleration, sportier styling, and more standard safety tech from day one.

Find Your 2026 Subaru Impreza at the Best Price in Capitola

Whichever trim fits your life, our team at Santa Cruz Subaru can help you drive it home. We’re located in Capitola, serving Santa Cruz, Watsonville, and Marina, and we back every purchase with a knowledgeable local team who knows this lineup inside and out. Have a trade-in? We’ll help you get real value toward your next Impreza.