2027 Subaru Impreza Base vs. RS: Trims, Prices, AWD, Cargo, and Technology

The 2027 Subaru Impreza changes the trim question. Sport is gone. A lower-priced Base trim returns, while RS stays at the top. Both use the same 180-horsepower engine and standard all-wheel drive. The choice now turns on screens, winter gear, safety tech, and cabin finish.

The 2027 change in one sentence

Base now gets the 2.5-liter engine that once set RS apart. Subaru lists Base at $24,595 MSRP and RS at $29,495 MSRP. The gap is $4,900 before destination, tax, and other fees. Subaru says the Base price is $2,000 below the 2026 entry point. The shared powertrain make Base a stronger value.

Start with the price gap, not the badge

Base is not a stripped shell. It includes the core hardware that defines the car. Subaru gives it useful road and cabin features from the start. The official 2027 Impreza trim page lists these Base items:

  • 180-horsepower 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine
  • Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
  • Dark gray 17-inch alloy wheels
  • LED Steering Responsive Headlights with High Beam Assist
  • Keyless Access with Push-Button Start
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Dual 7-inch touchscreens with wired phone integration
  • EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
 
 

That list covers the engine, AWD, lights, climate system, phone link, and key driver aids. RS is not required for the stronger engine, alloy wheels, or push-button start. Base keeps the main value points in one package.

Same engine, same AWD, two cabin plans

Every 2027 Impreza uses a 2.5-liter flat-four engine with 180 horsepower. It pairs with a Lineartronic CVT. Paddle shifters select eight preset ratios. SI-DRIVE offers Intelligent and Sport settings. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard on both trims.

Subaru lists up to 26 MPG city and 33 MPG highway. The shared engine removes the old power gap. Base and RS should have the same basic pull on a hill or ramp. Wheels and tires can still change ride feel.

Four numbers worth saving

  1. 20.4 cubic feet: cargo space behind the rear seat.
  2. 56.0 cubic feet: cargo space with the rear seat folded.
  3. $4,900: the MSRP gap between Base and RS.
  4. $2,070: the price of the available RS option package.

The hatchback shape adds real value. With the rear seat up, the cargo area holds groceries, work bags, or small outdoor gear. Fold it down for long boxes or sports gear. The low roof also makes a rack easier to reach than it is on a tall SUV.

Why Base is the main 2027 story

Base brings back a lower price without the weaker 2.0-liter engine. Its 17-inch wheels leave more tire sidewall than the 18-inch RS wheels. More sidewall can soften sharp road hits. Tire cost may be lower too.

The two 7-inch screens use wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. One screen handles media. The other handles climate and car settings. Base also has cloth seats plus front USB-A and USB-C ports. It suits buyers who value price, AWD, power, and simple controls.

RS changes comfort and safety, not power

RS adds 18-inch wheels, LED fog lights, a black roof spoiler, and black cloth with red stitching. Its winter pack brings heated front seats, heated mirrors, and a wiper de-icer. Those items fit a central Maine winter.

The RS upgrades adds an 11.6-inch touchscreen with a wireless phone link. A wireless charger and rear USB ports are standard. RS also adds Blind-Spot Detection, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Emergency Lane Keep Assist, and Automatic Emergency Steering. The driver must still stay alert.

Where the RS option package fits

Subaru offers one RS option package for $2,070 MSRP. It adds a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, a power moonroof, and a 10-way power driver's seat. It does not change power or AWD.

RS keeps its $29,495 MSRP. Citron Yellow Pearl costs $395. Ignition Red joins the color list for 2027. Paint and options raise the final amount before destination and local fees.

Maine use favors clear priorities

Both trims have AWD, but tires set the grip limit. Winter tires help braking and steering on cold roads. RS adds heat and visibility gear. Base leaves more budget for winter wheels, tires, or a roof rack.

The Impreza is a low hatchback, not a tall Crosstrek. It can feel calm on paved roads and is easy to load. Deep, unplowed snow may favor the taller Subaru. Normal winter roads suit the smaller Impreza well.

Which 2027 Impreza trim fits best?

Choose Base when 180 horsepower, AWD, cargo room, and a low price cover the job. Choose RS when heat, the large screen, added safety aids, rear charging ports, and trim details are worth $4,900. Add the RS option pack only if the power seat, moonroof, and premium audio will see regular use.

Subaru says in its 2027 Impreza pricing announcement that cars are due at retailers in late 2026. Evergreen Subaru shoppers should check current arrivals. The key change is clear. Base now has the same engine and AWD as RS, so the extra cost buys equipment instead of more power.