Mazda BT-50 vs Subaru Impreza
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
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Price Breakdown
Pricing for one or both models is yet to be confirmed for the Australian market. We will update this comparison when official RRPs are announced.
Safety Rundown
Both the Mazda BT-50 and Subaru Impreza hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Mazda BT-50 packs more ADAS features with 4 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 0 in the Subaru Impreza.
Both include the essentials: core safety systems. Airbag count is 6 in the Mazda BT-50 and 9 in the Subaru Impreza.
Feature Showdown
The Mazda BT-50 features a 7-inch touchscreen paired with a 4.2-inch digital dash, while the Subaru Impreza gets a 11.6-inch display and 4.2-inch instruments.
The Mazda BT-50 stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the Subaru Impreza. The Subaru Impreza counters with Harman Kardon audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Mazda BT-50 gets cloth upholstery while the Subaru Impreza offers leather. Climate control is 1-zone in the Mazda BT-50 and 2-zone in the Subaru Impreza.
Drivetrain
The Mazda BT-50 uses a Diesel producing 120kW and 400Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.9 seconds.
The Subaru Impreza responds with a Petrol I4 Boxer making 115kW and 196Nm, paired to a cvt driving all four wheels.
The Mazda BT-50 has the clear power advantage at 120kW vs 115kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mazda BT-50 measures 5,320mm long on a 3,125mm wheelbase, 830mm longer than the Subaru Impreza at 4,490mm (2,670mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mazda BT-50 generally means more rear legroom.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.6m to 12.5m
Based on 12.5m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 10.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
Compare U-turns side by side
Turning Circle · U-turn compare
kerb-to-kerb, 2 cars0 of 2 clear a 7.0 m street in one sweep
Green cars complete the U-turn; amber need a 3-point turn. Drag the slider to test tighter streets.
Standard widths: AU local streets ~5.5–7 m; main roads ~9–12 m.
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,967/year for the Mazda BT-50 and $2,138/year for the Subaru Impreza. That is a $171 annual difference in favour of the Mazda BT-50.
Estimated annual total: $1,967 (Mazda BT-50) vs $2,138 (Subaru Impreza). The Mazda BT-50 saves you roughly $171 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Mazda BT-50) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru Impreza). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mazda BT-50 if: You prioritise performance, want lower running costs, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Subaru Impreza if: You or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Mazda BT-50 takes 2 of 2 key spec categories. The Mazda BT-50 will save you roughly $171 a year in fuel. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Mazda BT-50 and Subaru Impreza?
The Mazda BT-50 is the cheapest at $36,400 before on-road costs.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Mazda BT-50 uses the least fuel at 6.9L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Mazda BT-50 and Subaru Impreza all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which can tow the most?
The Mazda BT-50 has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Mazda BT-50 makes the most power at 120kW.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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