(Subaru Legacy)The only car available in the United States with all-wheel drive as a standard feature on all variants is the seventh-generation mid-size Subaru Legacy. The Legacy, which comes in five trim levels (Base, Premium, Limited, Sport, and Touring XT), is the perfect car for families that value safety above all else but still want a sedan that handles quite well and has many creature amenities. Additionally, Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance system is standard on all models. It serves as a virtual second set of eyes for the driver, helping them by essentially keeping a digital watch on the road ahead.
The Legacy gets several aesthetic changes for 2023, such as a redesigned grille, headlights, and front end. With a broader field of vision, the most recent version of EyeSight enhances responsiveness when paired with the electronically controlled power-assisted dual-diagonal braking system. Automatic emergency steering is standard on models, including blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning systems. This feature assists drivers in avoiding collisions with objects at speeds lower than fifty miles per hour.
The Honda Accord, Nissan Maxima, and Toyota Camry are the closest rivals in this class. In this congested market, the only vehicles with all-wheel drive as standard are the Legacy and the Camry, with all-wheel drive being an optional feature. Similarly, none come equipped with the enormous 11.6-inch touchscreen that Subaru provides on higher-end models. The most potent engine available for the Camry is a V6 with 301 horsepower, while the most powerful engine for the Legacy is a 2.4-litre turbocharged boxer with 260 horsepower; the most powerful engine available for the Accord is a turbo-four cylinder with 252 horsepower.
The 2.5-litre flat-four naturally aspirated boxer engine ($25,415, $27,715, and $32,465, respectively, including a $1,020 destination tax) of the Base, Premium, and Limited versions produces 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. With an output of 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, the 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine is available in the Sport and Touring XT versions ($34,915 and $38,715, respectively). Even while the standard engine is good for commuting, drivers who like their cars will appreciate the increased power and torque. Regardless of engine, Subaru states that towing with the Legacy is “not recommended.”
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) commend the Legacy for its excellent safety record. With a few inches here and there, inside passenger capacity is comparable to rival sedans in the mid-size market group. Additionally, cargo space is competitive, within a few cubic feet of each other. The passenger compartment of the Legacy is peaceful and cosy, and the interior design is excellent, particularly with the optional leather seats.
Exclusive to the Premium, Limited, Sport, and Touring XT versions, the gorgeous 11.6-inch touchscreen is beautiful and functional. But sometimes, the wireless Apple CarPlay technology willfully failed to establish a connection with our iPhone. A robust driver-aid package is included with every model in the range, albeit the more expensive variants are the only ones with the more sophisticated safety systems.
What’s New
- updated front look with a redesigned grille, bumper, and headlight design
- EyeSight Gen 4, with a broader field of vision, was enhanced for all models.
- Automatic emergency steering is standard on models, including rear cross-traffic alert and blind spot warning.
- A new electronically-controlled power-assisted dual-diagonal braking system linked with EyeSight is installed on all models to increase responsiveness.
- With a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension, the sport model
- New black window moulding and trim for all models
- Limited and Touring XT versions are equipped with a 12-way power driver’s seat with four-way power lumbar adjustment as standard.
- Limited versions now include the Harman Kardon sound system.
- All models now include lighted input jacks (3.5mm aux and USB) and charge connections, except the Base 11.6-inch multimedia systems (which have dual 7-inch multimedia for the Base model). Additionally, all models come equipped with Subaru’s X-MODE LED dome light with off-delay, improving on-screen music and HVAC controls.
- The Touring XT’s perforated Nappa leather-trimmed seats come in Java Brown or the new Slate Black colour with silver stitching.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- All-wheel drive system standard
- good figures for fuel efficiency
- extensive list of common safety features
Cons:
- Bland styling
- Apple CarPlay can be glitchy
- Trails segment in dynamic engagement
Performance: Subaru Legacy
Two-wheel drive is not even an option for the Legacy; all Subaru models, except for the two-door rear-wheel drive BRZ sports vehicle, come standard with all-wheel drive. Contrary to popular belief, all-wheel drive is not only valid in the winter. It’s a valuable feature on wet and slick roads and improves performance even on dry pavement (for drivers who want to drive fast).
Concerning dynamic driving, the Legacy comes with two engine choices. A 2.5-liter flat-four boxer engine with natural aspiration that generates 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque powers the Base, Premium, and Limited variants. A 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine with 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque is standard on Sport and Touring XT versions. Everybody is connected to a transmission that is constantly variable (CVT).
The turbocharged engine will appeal to drivers. The added kick from the 2.4-litre turbo makes overtaking the roads a pleasure and will surely grin on the driver’s face, even if the normally aspirated 2.5-litre powertrain will get you where you want to go.
Fuel Efficiency: Subaru Legacy
The EPA estimates that older vehicles with the naturally aspirated 2.5-litre boxer engine get 30 mpg combined, 27 mpg in the city, and 35 mpg on the interstate. The more potent 2.4-litre turbocharged engine is rated at 26 combined mpg, 23 cities, and 31 highway mpg in models having it.
As a result, the total average for both engines is 28, 25 for cities, and 33 for highways. With 28, 24, and 34 mpg, respectively, the Legacy’s fuel efficiency is closest to that of its competitor, the Toyota Camry. With 27, 35, and 30 mpg, the Honda Accord is the apparent victor, with the Nissan Maxima only offering 20, 30, and 24 mpg.
Driver assistance and safety:
The Legacy is a significant force in safety. It has received five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in every category, and it has been named a Top Safety Pick Plus by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
A comprehensive array of standard safety features is included with all models, including Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance technology, which uses two cameras positioned at the top of the windshield to function as the driver’s extra set of eyes. The adaptive cruise control system is controlled by EyeSight, which also provides lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping aid, sway warning (which identifies sleepy driving), and automated emergency steering.
Automatic high beams, a brake override system (which prevents the car from speeding uncontrollably if the brake and accelerator pedals are depressed simultaneously in an emergency), whiplash-reducing front seats, and multiple airbags (front, side, seat cushion, and knee) are additional noteworthy standard safety features.
Blind-spot warning systems, lane change assistance, rear cross-traffic alerts, and rear automated braking are standard on Limited, Sport, and Touring XT versions. A driver monitoring system is included in Sport and Touring XT versions. The only model equipped with a 180-degree front-view camera is the Touring XT. The larger field of vision is intended to help drivers detect pedestrians and bicycles on the road more quickly.
Coziness & Space: Subaru Legacy
Four people may travel comfortably; however, five can do so in less comfort. The Legacy has more excellent front legroom (42.8 inches) than the Accord (42.3) and Camry (42.1). With 45, the Maxima has the most. Regarding back passenger legroom, the Accord has an impressive 40.4 inches, while the Legacy has the most at 39.5 inches, surpassing the Camry (38.0) and the Maxima (34.2).
All other versions have power-adjustable seats, while the Base Legacy model has manually adjustable seats (driver’s six-way, front passenger’s four-way). The driver’s seat in Premium and Sport versions has ten power adjustment settings, including power lumbar support; the front passenger’s seat is still manually adjustable with four settings. On the other hand, the Limited and Touring XT versions come equipped with an eight-way power-adjustable front passenger seat and an enhanced 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with a two-position memory feature and power-adjustable lumbar support.
Leather is only available in limited and touring XT versions. At the same time, cloth seats are standard on Base and Premium models and “sport cloth upholstery” with red contrast stitching on Sport variants.
Longer car excursions are made more enjoyable by the sturdy yet comfy seats. The 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat may comfortably accommodate most body shapes and sizes.
Infotainment: Subaru Legacy
Only higher-trim versions come with several of the most intriguing infotainment options. For instance, the Base model has two 7.0-inch multimedia touchscreens, Bluetooth audio streaming, hands-free phone and text messaging connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM and SiriusXM Travel Link, AM/FM stereo, HD Radio, one USB-A port, and a 3.5mm auxiliary jack.
The Premium, Limited, Sport, and Touring XT variants are the only ones with the more aesthetically pleasing 11.6-inch touchscreen. All of the features above are included in the Premium and Limited variants, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as front and rear USB-A and USB-C connections. Navigation is also included in the Sport and Touring XT versions. Strangely, Touring XT vehicles will gain a CD player starting in 2023.
Without a cord, Although Apple CarPlay is a fantastic feature, the phone and the system don’t always connect instantly. We sometimes had to restart the phone for the system to recognize it.
Except for the Base, which has just four speakers, all versions are equipped with Wi-Fi as standard. Six speakers are included with the Premium and Sport variants, while the Limited and Touring XT models come standard with a fantastic 12-speaker Harman Kardon system. Well worth the upgrade is this.
Storage & Cargo Space:
With a trunk capacity of 15.1 cubic feet, this mid-size sedan has more luggage space than the Maxima (14.3) but less than the Accord (16.7). This is comparable to the Camry’s offering (15.1).
There is enough space for little objects throughout the passenger area. In addition, Subaru has placed a smartphone slot just under the 11.6-inch touchscreen in cars with the wireless charging option, which is available on all models except the Base.
Design: Subaru Legacy
Redesigned LED headlights, a more pronounced grille, and a revised front end gave the Legacy a modest update for 2023 and a more muscular appearance. The new, bolder appearance offers the Legacy more personality for the 2018 model year, but it’s still not a head-turner, and most people won’t stop in the parking lot to take a closer look.
The inside is a sensory-rich experience. Excellent fit and finish, an attractive colour palette, and high-quality materials are all utilized. The visuals are highly contemporary, and the 11.6-inch touchscreen is outstanding. Everything seems correct, and the buttons and knobs feel sturdy.
Is the 2023 Subaru Legacy Worth it?
At least $25,415 may be purchased for the Base Legacy (with a $1,020 destination cost). Additionally, although it has two 7-inch touchscreens, all-wheel drive, and several safety systems—including Subaru’s EyeSight system—it lacks some of the more enticing features and luxuries found on the more costly versions.
The Sport variant is the best option for drivers seeking the whole package—power, technology, and safety—with a dash of modern flair. The more powerful 260-horsepower 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, a sunroof, a bigger 11.6-inch touchscreen screen, modest external details, and a black and grey interior with red stitching are all included with the $34,915 (destination fee) Sport. The naturally aspirated 2.5-litre engine with 182 horsepower available on the less expensive trims will be replaced by this engine for everyone who appreciates driving with passion.
The top-of-the-line $38,715 Touring XT is the only variant with a turbocharged engine. For that much, Subaru includes nice-to-have amenities like Nappa leather upholstery, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system, a 180-degree front-view camera, and a ventilated 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat (eight-way for the front passenger).
How Much Does Subaru Legacy Insurance Cost?
The Legacy has relatively cheap insurance premiums for a mid-size car. An average yearly premium for a 30-year-old female driver with a clean record is $2,111. Conversely, the average insurance cost for the Nissan Maxima is $2,783, the Honda Accord is $2,158, and the Toyota Camry is $1,871.
Subaru Legacy Generations
Seventh Generation
2020 to Present
The 2020 Legacy was rebuilt and placed on Subaru’s worldwide platform, which, although shared with other, bigger models, is lighter and stiffer than the previous generation. A 2.4-liter turbocharged engine produces 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, while the new base-model 2.5-liter engine produces 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. The long-running six-cylinder Legacy—a sluggish seller—was eliminated for this generation.
Sixth Generation
2015 to 2019
For the 2015 model year, the sixth-generation Legacy made its appearance. Its 2.5-litre engine gained two horsepower, making 175 horsepower altogether. 2018 saw the addition of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to Subaru’s Starlink multimedia system. In 2019, EyeSight—with automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, front collision warning, and lane keep assist—became standard on all vehicles.
Fifth Generation
2010 to 2014
The large and boxy appearance of the fifth-generation Legacy drew harsh criticism for its styling. The car’s proportions expanded by three inches in all directions, although it seemed much more vertical. A continuously variable gearbox option was unveiled, ultimately replacing the traditional transmission choices available on the Legacy. With or without turbochargers, most of the range was now powered by 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engines. There was a 22 horsepower boost to 265 horsepower in the turbo variant. For higher trims, a brand-new 6-cylinder boxer engine made its debut. 2013 saw the introduction of Subaru’s EyeSight safety system, which features adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure alerts, and a more aggressive style update for the Legacy.
Fourth Generation
2005 to 2009
First produced in the automaker’s Lafayette, Indiana facility, the fourth-generation Legacy was equipped with a 2.5-liter engine similar to the WRX STI. Additionally, cruise control was included in even the lowest models as safety became a top emphasis. Subaru streamlined its portfolio and tried to give each version a distinctive personality in 2006. In 2007, the sportier accents and tighter suspension of the limited-production Spec B were added to the range. Along with a modest update in 2008, Subaru discontinued the wagon model. In 2009, stability control was standard on all but one trim level.
Third Generation
2000 to 2004
The fourth-generation Legacy’s comprehensive redesign rearranged the trim levels for the wagon and sedan models, positioning them as all-weather cars. A 2.5-litre Boxer engine with 165 horsepower and anti-lock brakes propelled every version. Higher model levels were available with the All-Weather option, which included a double sunroof, multi-reflection headlamps, and a limited-slip rear differential. More all-weather features, such as heated seats, side mirrors, and a windshield wiper de-icer, were standard in 2002. This generation of Legacy also provided the platform for the Baja small pickup truck between 2002 and 2006.
Second Generation
1994 to 1999
The Outback wagon debuted with the second generation Legacy; the 1994 model year is regarded as the first iteration of the vehicle, even though it didn’t have its iconic raised stance until 1996. The Sport sedan was dropped for the 1995 model year, while the engine’s horsepower was bumped up to 5, and the Brighton wagon was unveiled. In 1997, all trim levels were outfitted with all-wheel drive. The Outback Limited made its debut in 1999.
First Generation
1989 to 1993
The 1989 model year saw the introduction of the first generation Legacy, which came in sedan and wagon configurations with front- or all-wheel drive. It was the brand-new, authentic mid-size Subaru—initially, a 2.2-litre, four-cylinder engine producing 130 horsepower provided the power. A Sport sedan and the LSI trim were debuted in 1991. The Sport model features a 2.2-liter turbocharged engine producing 160 horsepower and a sport-tuned suspension. 1992 saw a little cosmetic update for the Legacy, along with the addition of a turbocharged Touring wagon.
Verdict
With two engine choices, all-wheel drive as standard, and a long list of standard and optional safety features, the 2023 Subaru Legacy is still a competitive alternative to the current sedan market. Three years into its seventh generation, the Legacy is receiving minor updates to its safety, technology, and aesthetic features to keep it current. Adaptive cruise control and EyeSight driver assistance technologies are standard equipment on all Subaru models, which is uncommon in this market.
