Pricing

The S trim is the least expensive Mazda3 Hatchback (MSRP: $25,550), but it has front-wheel drive. To get the most apples-to-apples comparison as far as pricing, we’ll focus on the Mazda3 Hatchback Carbon Edition, which starts at $30,765. Meanwhile, the Impreza RS has an MSRP of $29,495, which makes it $1,270 less than the Mazda3 Carbon Edition – but the Subaru lacks several of the Mazda’s premium standard features (for details, see the sections that follow). For reference, the entry-level Impreza Sport stickers at $26,595.

Powertrain

Neither vehicle relies on turbocharging, keeping the powertrain simple (although higher-end Mazda3s do come with turbo engines). In addition, both models use a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, but with different architecture. The 2026 Mazda3 Hatchback Carbon Edition’s engine uses a conventional inline configuration (four adjacent cylinders), while the Impreza uses a boxer setup (with cylinder pairs positioned flat on opposite sides of the engine). The Mazda3 Hatchback produces slightly higher output of 186 horsepower and 186 lb.-ft. of torque, compared to 180 horsepower and 178 lb.-ft. of torque for the Impreza.

There are also contrasts in the transmissions used to control each model’s all-wheel-drive system. The Mazda3 Hatchback uses a conventional six-speed automatic transmission, a proven unit that delivers predictable performance without sacrificing fuel economy. On the other hand, the Impreza comes with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). CVTs are typically programmed to save gas, but they can deliver a lackluster driving experience. Interestingly, the Mazda3 is one of the few small cars still using an automatic transmission. Even the Honda Civic Hatchback and Toyota Corolla Hatchback have CVTs.

Fuel Economy

Even with different transmissions, the 2026 Mazda3 Hatchback and Impreza have nearly identical fuel-economy ratings. According to the EPA, the Mazda delivers 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The Impreza does slightly better around town (26 mpg) but drops to 33 mpg on the open road. Both vehicles use regular gasoline.

Features

Both vehicles contain commonly desirable features, such as dual-zone automatic climate control, an infotainment touchscreen, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies. That said, the Mazda3 Hatchback Carbon Edition has a few upscale amenities, including leather upholstery, a power sunroof, a power driver’s seat, and a driver’s memory system. That’s a lot of premium touches for less than $1,300 additional.

Expert Rankings

Expert reviewers from Edmunds ranked the 2026 Mazda3 Hatchback at 7.2 out of 10. However, the Impreza only scored a 6.0. Looking at individual categories, the Mazda3 also scored higher than the Impreza in driving experience, comfort, value, and other areas. In its ranking of Best Small Cars for 2025, iSeeCars placed the Mazda3 Hatchback in third place (behind the Honda Civic Hatchback and Sedan). The Impreza ranked ninth out of 37 entrants.