Subaru is dropping the Base model Impreza for the 2026 model year, leaving just the Sport and RS trim levels in four-door hatchback configuration. The 2026 Subaru Impreza will start at $26,595, meaning it will cost an extra $2,235 to get into an Impreza when it arrives in the US in the fall. The RS version will start at $29,495 and, as this is Subaru, both come standard with the brand’s excellent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. However, if you’re looking at the Sport and RS trim already, both versions are only rising in price by a few hundred bucks for 2026.

Slight Powertrain Tweaks

Destination and delivery in most states have also risen, but the price change is mild. It’s now $1,195 rather than $1,170, and $1,345 for Alaskans. Moving forward, the Sport model continues to use Subaru’s naturally aspirated 2.0-liter flat-four, making 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. However, the RS’s 2.5-liter flat-four still produces 178 lb-ft but drops two horses to 180 in the name of improved throttle response, and Subaru says peak torque is now available at lower rpm. Both use a continuously variable automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters to mimic gear shifting if the driver feels the urge.

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Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, while you’ll need the RS to get a wireless charger. Infotainment is accessed through an 11.6-inch screen. LED steering-responsive headlights are also standard, as are 18-inch wheels with summer tires. Among its added extras, the RS includes upgraded LED headlights, a dark gray finish to its 18-inch wheels, unique sporty trim on the inside, and side spoilers on the outside. The driver gets a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter and aluminum-alloy pedal covers.

Impreza Updates Are Few

The Impreza moves into the 2026 model year with few changes, as 2024 was a new model year and included the addition of the RS trim. Auto Vehicle Shutdown has been added to turn the engine off after 30 minutes at idle, a new Citron Yellow Pearl is available as a $395 option, and there’s new black badging at the rear of the car.

Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assistance technology is standard, but to get blind-spot detection and emergency lane keep assist, the Sport trim needs a $1,900 package that also includes a Power Moonroof and an All-Weather Package. The RS’s upgrade package adds a Harman Kardon 10-speaker sound system with a 432-watt equivalent amplifier, a power moonroof, and a 10-way power-adjustable front seat with lumbar support for $2,070.

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Value For Money Remains

Obviously, if you’re looking for a base model, the value proposition on the Impreza has eroded drastically. However, for those looking at the Sport and RS, the Impreza remains an underrated small car. While not powerful, it’s quiet, comfortable, and there’s plenty of space inside for a small family. The interior isn’t luxurious, but the materials are hard-wearing for those small families or people with dogs.

The RS is a fun handling car with a bit more power, but it’s certainly not the hot hatch the RS badge suggests. For a sporty Impreza, we would either save for the $37,750 Subaru WRX or be looking at the used market. We’re bigger fans of the Sport for its utility here, but do wish Subaru would commit and make blind-spot detection and emergency lane keep assist standard throughout its range.