In today’s compact car market, buyers who want value, practicality, and all-weather confidence don’t have to choose between boring commuter and pricier premium options. The 2026 Subaru Impreza RS and the 2026 Mazda 3 Carbon Edition both bring all-wheel-drive traction, a generous equipment list, and sensible pricing, yet they arrive from very different design philosophies.
Mazda
Recently, I had access to an Impreza RS, and a Mazda 3 Carbon Edition. Full disclosure, the Mazda was a media loan, the Impreza was borrowed. Both vehicles were competent, and excelled as commuters, but they are remarkably different. Both vehicles have the same displacement engines (2.5-liters) but they are completely different configurations. They also provide all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, which are also completely different.
At a glance, the Impreza RS is the practical all-weather toolkit built for every season. The Mazda 3 Carbon Edition is a more styled, engaging alternative that doesn’t compromise on comfort or features. Here’s how they compare across the key areas that matter to everyday buyers.
Subaru Impreza RS (MSRP $29,495)
The Impreza RS is powered by Subaru’s 180 horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder that makes 178 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). It’s a rear-drive-bias “Symmetrical” AWD system that is a proven quantity on rough terrain and in harsh conditions. It is EPA-estimated at 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, which is impressive for any AWD vehicle.
It comes only as a hatchback, which makes it much more utilitarian. You get 20.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to a maximum of 56.0 cu-ft with the 60/40 split-folding rear seats lowered. That’s competitive with many small crossover/SUVs. You also get a 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment screen, Apple Carplay and Android Auto, along with 6 speakers and 4G LTE Wi-Fi capability.
Subaru Impreza RS Design
Externally, the Impreza RS is distinguishable from the base model Sport by its black-painted 18-inch wheels. It’s not as rugged-looking as a Crosstrek, and it’s priced in the same ballpark. The RS does offer unique interior upgrades and stitching. Cloth upgrades look great, but the seat material is not exactly premium. Despite this, the seats are surprisingly comfortable, and Subaru has made real progress with its overall interior design.
Despite their improvements, the exterior and interior are not particularly notable for innovation. That’s not an indictment; as the overall design is easy to live with, and feels fairly high quality. Slow and steady updates are the name of the game, and it’s also the way Subaru looks at performance.
Driving the Subaru Impreza RS
Once again, slow and steady is the way the Impreza RS goes. It’s not as painfully slow or as underpowered as the 2.0-liter boxer, but it is a bit timid. Its 0-60 mph time comes in under 8 seconds, which is acceptable; however, passing power and sporting performance are lacking. Still, the driving character of the Impreza RS is calm, comfortable, and very easy to live with. It’s surprisingly maneuverable and has a good ride.
Mazda 3 Carbon Edition ($30,210)
The Mazda 3 Carbon Edition pairs a 186-hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder with 186 lb-ft of torque. Recently, there was a tiny drop – but the EPA estimated efficiency of this powertrain hovers at 25 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. Mazda’s AWD setup is different than Subaru’s and the front-wheel drive-bias powertrain layout is different as well.
While you can get a Mazda 3 as a hatchback, the Carbon Edition tested is only available as a sedan. Trunk-space is acceptable with 13.2 cu-ft available. It comes with a (very small) 8.8-inch infotainment display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a Bose 12-speaker premium audio system.
Mazda 3 Carbon Edition Design
Mazda designed the Carbon Edition with a sleek, traditional, and upscale aesthetic. It utilizes Mazda’s KODO “Soul of Motion” design language, characterized by a refined, flowing silhouette. The Carbon Edition adds distinct styling elements like 18-inch black alloy wheels, gloss black grille, and red leather seating.
To many, Mazda’s design still looks fresh, contemporary, and handsome. That design shines inside and out, but it’s not perfect. The biggest issue is the infotainment screen, which is primarily manipulated by a dial/knob located south of the gear lever. The seats are very comfortable, and the red leather feels premium; however, the back seat space is tight for adults.
Driving the Mazda 3 Carbon Edition
Mazda’s i-ACTIV AWD provides excellent grip in challenging conditions while maintaining a lighter, more refined touch. In everyday driving, the Mazda feels more willing and alive, especially on winding roads. It is playful by comparison and far more connected to the road. The Subaru is softer and more relaxed, and both vehicles have improved noise isolation, but some rumbling still gets through.
Mazda
James Riswick
Final Thoughts
If your priority is everyday confidence, simplicity, and trustworthy AWD capability at a sensible price, the 2026 Subaru Impreza RS is one of the best choices in its class. It’s a sensible, “does-it-all” compact with genuine all-season traction and no drama.
If you want more engaging dynamics, a slightly more premium cabin, and AWD that doesn’t sacrifice fun for practicality, the 2026 Mazda 3 Carbon Edition delivers sparkling road manners, tech polish, and value that edges into near-luxury territory without the price tag to match.
Both are excellent AWD compacts – just tuned to slightly different audiences. One leans into confidence and utility; the other skews toward finesse and driver engagement. In a time when most vehicles creep near the $50,000 range, it’s nice to see these alternatives for far less.
About the author
Nathan Adlen
Contributing Writer, Autoblog