Subaru Impreza vs Mazda BT-50
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 Subaru Impreza and Mazda BT-50 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 9 in the Subaru Impreza and 6 in the Mazda BT-50.
Feature Showdown
The Subaru Impreza features a 11.6-inch touchscreen paired with a 4.2-inch digital dash, while the Mazda BT-50 gets a 7-inch display and 4.2-inch instruments.
The Subaru Impreza stands out with Harman Kardon audio that you will not find on the Mazda BT-50. The Mazda BT-50 counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Subaru Impreza gets leather upholstery while the Mazda BT-50 offers cloth. Climate control is 2-zone in the Subaru Impreza and 1-zone in the Mazda BT-50.
Drivetrain
The Subaru Impreza uses a Petrol I4 Boxer producing 115kW and 196Nm of torque, sent through a cvt to a AWD layout.
The Mazda BT-50 responds with a Diesel making 120kW and 400Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.9 seconds.
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 Subaru Impreza measures 4,490mm long on a 2,670mm wheelbase, 830mm shorter than the Mazda BT-50 at 5,320mm (3,125mm 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 10.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 12.5m 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 $1,967/year for the Mazda BT-50. That is a $171 annual difference in favour of the Mazda BT-50.
Estimated annual total: $2,138 (Subaru Impreza) vs $1,967 (Mazda BT-50). 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 (Subaru Impreza) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Mazda BT-50). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Subaru Impreza if: You or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mazda BT-50 if: You prioritise performance, want lower running costs, or prefer Mazda'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, Subaru Impreza and Mazda BT-50?
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 — Subaru Impreza and Mazda BT-50 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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