2025 Mazda3 Hatchback vs 2025 Subaru Impreza

Pricing, MSRP

The 2025 Mazda3 Hatchback starts at approximately $25,135, with the top-tier Turbo Premium Plus trim reaching around $37,185. In contrast, the 2025 Subaru Impreza has a lower starting MSRP of about $23,610 for the base model, with the RS trim priced around $28,500. While the Impreza offers a more budget-friendly entry point, the Mazda3 provides a broader range of trims catering to various preferences and budgets.

Trim Levels

The Mazda3 Hatchback is available in several trims, including the 2.5 S, Select Sport, Preferred, Carbon Edition, Premium, Carbon Turbo, and Turbo Premium Plus. This variety allows buyers to select a model that aligns with their desired balance of performance and luxury. The Subaru Impreza offers three trims: Base, Sport, and RS. While the Impreza's lineup is more straightforward, it still provides options for those seeking efficiency or enhanced performance.

Engine and Transmission

The Mazda3 Hatchback comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower, with an available turbocharged variant delivering up to 250 horsepower. Transmission options include a six-speed automatic and a six-speed manual on select trims. The Subaru Impreza offers a standard 2.0-liter flat-four engine with 152 horsepower, and the RS trim features a 2.5-liter engine producing 182 horsepower. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and come with standard all-wheel drive.

Performance

The Mazda3 Hatchback is renowned for its engaging driving dynamics, offering responsive steering and a composed ride. The turbocharged variants provide brisk acceleration, enhancing the driving experience. The Subaru Impreza, with its standard all-wheel drive and sport-tuned suspension in the RS trim, delivers confident handling and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. However, the Mazda3's higher horsepower options give it an edge in outright performance.

Fuel Economy

The Mazda3 Hatchback achieves up to 27 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway with its base engine. The turbocharged variants see slightly lower figures. The Subaru Impreza offers comparable efficiency, with the base engine achieving up to 27 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, and the RS trim delivering slightly lower numbers due to its larger engine.

Towing

Neither the 2025 Mazda3 Hatchback nor the 2025 Subaru Impreza is rated for towing. Both vehicles are designed primarily for daily commuting and urban driving, focusing on fuel efficiency and comfort rather than towing capabilities.

Interior Design

The Mazda3 Hatchback boasts a premium interior with high-quality materials, a minimalist design, and attention to detail, providing an upscale feel uncommon in the compact segment. The Subaru Impreza features a practical and spacious interior, with the RS trim offering unique accents such as red stitching and aluminum-alloy pedal covers, adding a sporty touch to the cabin.

Cargo Space

The Mazda3 Hatchback offers 20.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 47.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Subaru Impreza provides slightly more room, with 20.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 56 cubic feet with the seats folded, offering greater versatility for carrying larger items.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Mazda3 Hatchback comes standard with an 8.8-inch infotainment display, with higher trims featuring a 10.25-inch screen. It offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, with wireless connectivity available on select trims. The Subaru Impreza features a dual 7.0-inch touchscreen setup in the base trim, with an available 11.6-inch display in higher trims. It also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing seamless smartphone integration.

Technology

Both vehicles offer a suite of technological features aimed at enhancing the driving experience. The Mazda3 includes options such as a head-up display, adaptive headlights, and a premium Bose audio system. The Subaru Impreza offers features like a Harman Kardon premium audio system, wireless charging, and Subaru's STARLINK connected services, providing convenience and connectivity for modern drivers.

Safety

The Mazda3 Hatchback is equipped with Mazda's i-Activsense suite, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Subaru Impreza features Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, offering similar safety technologies such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Both vehicles prioritize safety, providing comprehensive systems to protect occupants.

NHTSA/IIHS Ratings

The 2025 Mazda3 Hatchback has received a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and is anticipated to maintain its Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The 2025 Subaru Impreza has also earned a 5-star overall NHTSA rating and is expected to continue its strong performance in IIHS evaluations, reflecting both vehicles' commitment to safety.

Warranty

Mazda offers a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty for the Mazda3 Hatchback. Subaru provides a similar warranty for the Impreza, with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, offering peace of mind for long-term ownership.