For drivers in Salem, Oregon, choosing between the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek and the 2026 Subaru Impreza means deciding how you want to experience Subaru's legendary all-wheel-drive confidence. Both vehicles share the same core DNA-dependability, versatility, and advanced technology-but they cater to different lifestyles. The Crosstrek is a compact SUV built for adventure, while the Impreza is a hatchback designed for agility and everyday efficiency. At Capitol Subaru, we help Oregon drivers find the perfect match for their needs, whether that's a taller SUV with off-road capability or a sporty hatchback that excels in city driving. The 2026 Crosstrek offers a more commanding view of the road and up to 8.7 inches of ground clearance (or 9.3 inches in the Wilderness model), making it ideal for exploring Oregon's mountain trails and coastal routes. The Impreza, redesigned for 2026, sits lower for improved handling and aerodynamics while keeping Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard. Both models benefit from Subaru's commitment to comfort, safety, and performance. The Crosstrek now features a standard 2.5-liter BOXER® engine with 180 horsepower, while the Impreza RS trim uses the same engine in a smaller, more nimble frame. Each model embodies Subaru's balance of adventure and practicality-offering Oregon drivers dependable performance no matter the road conditions. Whether your priority is cargo versatility or compact efficiency, Capitol Subaru in Salem, OR, has both models ready for your test drive.
2026 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2026 Subaru Impreza: Design & Exterior Features
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek delivers rugged SUV styling with durable body cladding, raised suspension, and standard roof rails-perfect for loading kayaks, bikes, or camping gear. Its adventurous appearance matches its purpose-built design, offering confident performance both on and off the road. The 2026 Subaru Impreza, on the other hand, takes a sleek, sporty approach. Its hatchback design is aerodynamic and agile, with a lower profile that improves efficiency and cornering. Both models feature LED headlights, a modern Subaru grille, and signature character lines. While the Crosstrek stands taller and bolder, the Impreza's compact design appeals to drivers who want a sophisticated yet practical daily commuter.
2026 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2026 Subaru Impreza: Comfort & Technology
Step inside either Subaru, and you'll find a cabin designed for comfort and convenience. Both models feature high-quality materials and Subaru's latest Starlink® Multimedia System with a standard 11.6-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, and integrated navigation on upper trims. The Crosstrek emphasizes versatility, offering up to 120.5 cubic feet of interior space, with fold-flat rear seats that expand cargo capacity to nearly 55 cubic feet. The Impreza, while slightly smaller, makes excellent use of its hatchback design with 20.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. Drivers who prefer water-resistant materials will appreciate the Crosstrek's available StarTex® upholstery, while the Impreza offers a sportier feel with available contrast stitching and heated front seats. Both ensure a quiet, comfortable ride-perfect for commuting around Salem or heading toward Oregon's scenic highways.
2026 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2026 Subaru Impreza: Performance
When it comes to performance, Subaru gives both models the same dependable powertrain options. The Crosstrek features a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine that produces 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth Lineartronic® CVT and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Its higher ground clearance and available X-MODE® traction system make it an excellent choice for winter driving or light off-road exploration. The Impreza shares the same drivetrain in its RS trim, offering the same power in a more compact and lower-weight package. This results in quicker handling and slightly improved fuel efficiency. The Impreza Sport trim uses a 2.0-liter engine with 152 horsepower, ideal for drivers who prioritize daily commuting and city agility. Both vehicles provide stable cornering and balanced control thanks to Subaru's low center of gravity-a hallmark of the BOXER® engine design.
2026 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2026 Subaru Impreza: Safety
Safety is a shared strength between these two models. Both come standard with Subaru EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and pre-collision braking. For 2026, Subaru improved EyeSight's field of view for better detection of pedestrians and cyclists. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek and Impreza both earned a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recognized both as "Top Safety Picks." While 2026 testing is pending, these vehicles are built on the Subaru Global Platform, designed to absorb impact energy more effectively. The Crosstrek adds the advantage of higher ground clearance for visibility, while the Impreza's lower stance offers tighter road grip-proving that Subaru safety comes in multiple forms.
2026 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2026 Subaru Impreza: Overall Value
Choosing between the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek and 2026 Subaru Impreza depends on your driving needs, but both deliver tremendous value for Oregon drivers. The Crosstrek is ideal for those who crave adventure and versatility, with more cargo room, rugged styling, and trail-ready capability. The Impreza, meanwhile, provides sporty efficiency and affordability in a compact, city-friendly package. At Capitol Subaru, located at 920 Auto Group Avenue NE in Salem, OR, our team can help you compare trims, explore financing options, and find the Subaru that best fits your lifestyle. Whether you lean toward the Crosstrek's adventurous edge or the Impreza's sporty sophistication, you'll enjoy the same Subaru reliability, comfort, and long-term value that make both models favorites in Salem, Oregon, and beyond. Visit us today to test drive both and experience the difference firsthand.
 | 2026 Subaru Crosstrek | 2026 Subaru Impreza |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder BOXER® | 2.0-liter BOXER® |
| Standard Horsepower | 180 | 152 |
| Standard Torque (lb-ft) | 178 | 145 |
| Standard Drivetrain | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive |
| Standard Transmission | Lineartronic® CVT w/ 8-speed Manual Mode | Lineartronic® CVT |
| Roof Rails | Available | Unavailable |
| Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto™ | Standard | Standard |
| Heated Front Seats | Available | Available |
| Standard Climate Control | Dual-Zone | Dual-Zone |
| Standard Fuel Economy | 26 City / 33 Highway | 27 City / 33 Highway |
