Subaru Impreza vs Kia K4
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Sedans 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
The Subaru Impreza starts from $33,490 before on-road costs, while the Kia K4 opens at $32,090. That makes the Kia K4 the more affordable entry point by $1,400.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. Estimated driveaway prices sit around $37,672 for the Subaru Impreza and $33,490 for the Kia K4.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Kia K4 by roughly $2,140 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Subaru Impreza and Kia K4 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Kia K4 packs more ADAS features with 5 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 0 in the Subaru Impreza.
Both include the essentials: core safety systems. Airbag count is 9 in the Subaru Impreza and 6 in the Kia K4.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems.
The Kia K4 counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto that the Subaru Impreza does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Subaru Impreza uses a Petrol I4 Boxer producing 115kW and 196Nm of torque, sent through a cvt to a AWD layout.
The Kia K4 responds with a Petrol making 110kW and 180Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 9.8 seconds.
The Subaru Impreza has the clear power advantage at 115kW vs 110kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Subaru Impreza measures 4,490mm long on a 2,670mm wheelbase, 220mm shorter than the Kia K4 at 4,710mm (2,720mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Kia K4 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 291L in the Subaru Impreza and 508L in the Kia K4, giving the Kia K4 a 217L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.6m to 10.7m
Based on 10.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 10.7m 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 $2,138/year for the Subaru Impreza and $1,710/year for the Kia K4. That is a $428 annual difference in favour of the Kia K4.
Estimated annual total: $2,138 (Subaru Impreza) vs $1,710 (Kia K4). The Kia K4 saves you roughly $428 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru Impreza) vs 7 years / 999,999km (Kia K4). The Kia K4 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Subaru Impreza if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Kia K4 if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Kia K4 takes 4 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Kia K4 will save you roughly $428 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Kia K4 has a clear edge. The Kia K4 adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Subaru Impreza and Kia K4?
The Kia K4 is the cheapest at $32,090 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Subaru Impreza by $1,400.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Kia K4 uses the least fuel at 6L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Subaru Impreza and Kia K4 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Kia K4 has the largest boot at 508L.
Which can tow the most?
The Kia K4 has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,100kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Kia K4 has the longest warranty at 7 years / Unlimited.
Which is the most powerful?
The Subaru Impreza makes the most power at 115kW.
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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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