Overview & Reviews

Introduced more than two decades ago, the Subaru Legacy is the brand's longest-running nameplate in the United States. Thanks to its all-wheel drive, the Legacy has often been selected by consumers as a winter-beating alternative in the midsize sedan or wagon segment.

Perhaps as a consequence of the Legacy's off-beat nature, it's never been as popular in terms of sales as mainstream picks like the Accord and Camry. In recent years, though, Subaru has attempted to expand the Legacy's appeal by making it roomier and more fuel-efficient. The newest generation, in particular, is a fully competitive rival. As a used vehicle choice, we still highly recommend the Legacy (particularly if you want all-wheel drive), though certain model years are going to be more appealing than others, so a bit of extra research is recommended.

Current Subaru Legacy
The newest Subaru Legacy sedan has been fully redesigned for 2015. Representing the car's sixth generation, the new Legacy shares a similar look and feel to the previous version, but changes under the skin have resulted in more passenger and cargo room. The cabin itself features nicer materials and updated electronics.

The Legacy has a choice of two engines. The base 2.5-liter horizontally opposed ("boxer") four-cylinder produces 175 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. The available six-cylinder, which is also a boxer design, generates 256 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque. Both engines come with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive.

Trim levels include 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Limited and 3.6R Limited. Highlights for the base 2.5i models include air-conditioning, cruise control, full power accessories, a rearview camera, a touchscreen display, Bluetooth and a four-speaker sound system. The 2.5i Premium adds dual-zone automatic climate control, a power driver seat, heated front seats and an upgraded audio system that includes a larger touchscreen. Going with the 2.5i or 3.6 R Limited (which has the six-cylinder engine) gets you leather upholstery, a power passenger seat, heated rear seats and a 12-speaker premium sound system. Major options include a sunroof, a navigation system and added safety features.

Seating is pretty roomy inside the Legacy, and outward visibility is excellent. The cabin is trimmed in high-quality materials, and the touchscreen that's bundled with the navigation system can be controlled like a tablet. On the move, the Subaru Legacy's standard all-wheel-drive system gives it plenty of capability in bad weather. Both the four- and the six-cylinder engines are quiet and provide class-acceptable acceleration. We also like how the Legacy easily soaks up bumps and ruts, yet maintains its composure when you're driving through turns. All in all, the Legacy is a smart choice for a midsize family sedan.

Used Subaru Legacy Models
Previous to the current model was the fifth-generation Legacy sedan sold from 2010-'14. Compared to the car it replaced, this Legacy was bigger both inside and out and was more visually distinctive because of its blockier styling.

Originally, Subaru offered this Legacy in 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Limited, 2.5GT Premium, 2.5GT Limited, 3.6R, 3.6R Premium and 3.6R Limited trim levels. All came standard with all-wheel drive.

The 2.5i models had a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine that produced 170 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque. You could get it with a six-speed manual transmission or a CVT. The 2.5GT boasted a turbocharged version of the 2.5-liter four that cranked out 265 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, but only the manual transmission was offered. The 3.6R models came with a 3.6-liter horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine that generated 256 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic was the only available transmission.

Standard equipment included air-conditioning, a height-adjustable driver seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a four-speaker stereo. Moving up to the Premium and Limited trim levels would get you added features like power front seats, dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery, Bluetooth and a premium sound system. Exclusive to Limited models was an optional navigation system with a rearview camera.

The most significant changes for this fifth-generation Legacy occurred for 2013 when Subaru gave the car a sleeker look, made the four-cylinder engine slightly more powerful (173 hp) and fuel-efficient, revised the suspension tuning and CVT, and added a newly available frontal collision warning system (Subaru's "EyeSight" system). The 2.5GT model and its turbocharged engine were also discontinued that year.

Though it had some appealing qualities, this generation's Legacy didn't appeal to us as much as previous ones did. It was certainly roomier and more fuel efficient, but it largely lacked the snappy, fun-to-drive personality established by the fourth generation. In reviews we praised the car for its roomy seating, good outward visibility and standard all-wheel drive. Downsides included behind-the-times audio and navigation systems, below-average fuel economy with the six-cylinder and a ride quality that could seem overly firm at times.

The fourth-generation Legacy was produced from 2005-'09. It was available as both a sedan and a wagon until 2008, when the wagon was discontinued. Although the base car was a bit of a stripper, the other trims were well-equipped and made the Legacy as luxurious and comfortable as some midsize cars wearing luxury badges.

When this Legacy was introduced for '05, it was available as a sedan and wagon, and there were two basic trim levels: 2.5i and 2.5GT. The former had a 168-hp 2.5-liter boxer-4, while the 2.5GT received a 250-hp turbocharged version of the same engine. These models came with either a five-speed manual or an automatic transmission -- four speeds in the base 2.5i, five in the 2.5GT. As time went on, a few additional models joined the lineup, notably the sedan-only 2.5GT spec.B and 3.0 R. The former was a better-handling version of the 2.5GT, while the latter was a luxurious Legacy that came with a 245-hp 3.0-liter flat-6 and a five-speed automatic transmission. As with all Subaru vehicles, AWD was standard.

In road tests, our editors found the fourth-generation Subaru Legacy to be both sporty and comfortable -- a challenging combination for manufacturers to master. The base 2.5-liter engine provided adequate power, but the turbocharged GT model was the one to have for enthusiastic driving. However, the GT performed better with the manual transmission, as the five-speed automatic seemed ill-suited to the turbo motor's power delivery.

This Legacy was a bit tight in the backseat relative to its midsize rivals, but it compensated with comfortable front seats and a sleek BMW-like dashboard design. Additionally, the wagon model brilliantly combined impressive driving dynamics with all-star utility. Although this Legacy vintage is getting a bit old now, we still highly recommend it if you're looking for a used midsize sedan or wagon with all-season versatility and an extra dose of driving flair.

Notable changes to the fourth-generation Legacy began in 2006, when the sedan-only GT spec.B trim was added. For 2007, the GT spec.B received a six-speed manual in place of the original five-speed unit, and the 2.5-liter engine's horsepower rating was revised to 243 (from 250). For 2008 Subaru discontinued the wagon model, and the sedan-only 3.0 R model debuted, bringing six-cylinder power to the Legacy lineup. For 2009 stability control became standard and every Legacy except the base 2.5i received an upgraded nine-speaker audio system.

The previous, third-generation Subaru Legacy was more of a rugged all-weather performer than the current model. Sold from 2000-'04, it launched with three primary trim levels: base L, sporty GT and premium GT Limited. A Brighton value trim was also included in the 2000 lineup for the wagon, but was removed the following year.

Although it was a bit lacking in refinement, the previous Legacy was well stocked with standard features, including AWD. All trims came with a smooth and responsive 165-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. A five-speed manual transmission was standard and a four-speed automatic was optional. In 2003, Subaru moved the L trim upscale and added the L Special Edition trim, which was renamed the 35th Anniversary Edition a year later.

Value-minded buyers looking for an all-weather vehicle might take a look at the second-generation Subaru Legacy. Sold from 1995-'99, it was best known for spawning the Outback wagon, a rugged SUV alternative that came with standard AWD. The model's one weak link was its anemic 135-hp 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine, which many people felt was a downgrade from the 160-hp turbocharged 2.2-liter four-cylinder that was available in the first generation's Sport Turbo trim (sold from 1991-'94).

User Reviews:

• 

  Poor ride - 2014 Subaru Legacy
  By jzeimet - August 13 - 5:38 pm

  This is my second Legacy that I have leased and I made a mistake not purchasing the 2011 at the end of the lease. I really loved that legacy. Now I have the 2014 legacy sport and I can not get past the poor ride. On smooth roads you can enjoy the car, but any road that has bumps or cracks is felt. I thought it might be the 18 inch tires or that maybe needed to get broke in a little. I have 13,500 miles on it and no such luck. This is my third Subaru that I have leased, but I am so unhappy with the ride that I will not be leasing from Subaru again.

• 

  Awesome Car! - 2010 Subaru Legacy
  By KIM - August 11 - 4:10 am

  Ive had this car about a month now. I knew I wanted my next car to be a Legacy and Im not disappointed. I do not have ANY of the problems others mentioned. My car runs wonderfully, is very comfortable, and everyone thinks its eye catching. I think some others should have thought more about the car they wanted before buying. Not everyone likes the same things obviously. But, in my opinion, if you want a sharp car thats dependable and comfortable - this is your car!

• 

  Great Alternative to the usual sedans - 2017 Subaru Legacy
  By G-ManMI - August 11 - 12:20 am

  We leased a 2017 Legacy Limited with EyeSight and Nav package, and the car has everything anybody could ask for in the near luxury midsize sedan segment. The Limited trim comes with a long list of features, and option package #24 adds extra goodies like HID headlights, Eyesight, Nav etc and is a pretty good deal IMO. We bought this after test driving the Mazda 6 GT, Ford Fusion Titanium, Lincoln MKZ. The Legacy offers the best combination of safety, value, features and comfort. So far its being running great with a very comfortable ride and ready to take on another Midwest winter. The Harman Kardon audio system sounds excellent, much cleaner and punchy compared to similar Bose systems. The Legacy is surprisingly roomy and comfortable inside. The quiet interior and the low pitch drone from the CVT put some of my passengers to sleep on the highway! Only minor issue is that the front seats seem too wide, but I guess its on-par for a family sedan.

• 

  Fun Ride! - 2010 Subaru Legacy
  By Denver Driver - August 7 - 6:06 pm

  I was looking at options for trading in my 2003 VW Passat 4 motion when the salesman asked me to look at the Subaru Legacy. At first, I declined as I did not like my wifes 2005 Outback seat position. With some prodding, I agreed. Wow! What a difference in the 2010 Legacy. Larger than my Passat. Great seats. Rear seats fold down, great for skis. The 2.5i with CVT was quicker than the VW and at 500 miles I am averaging 26 mpg. This includes driving up the mountain which kills gas mileage. The car has the upgraded HK stereo with bluetooth. Very nice. Did I mention the 500 miles has been put on over 3 days. Great car for taking the long way home. 2 big thumbs up for this car. Nice job Subaru!

• 

  Nice Surprise - 2010 Subaru Legacy
  By Family Man - August 2 - 6:50 pm

  Anxiously waited 3mos for this car & have close to 1K mi; it was worth the wait. Live in the NE region w/snow & it feels like driving on rails. Traded in an Acura MDX & wanted another AWD vehicle. Convinced the wife to look at Subaru vs Volvo/Audi. Back seats are much roomier than either brands. Initially looked at CVT for the better gas mileage but got the 3.6 instead for the power; we need it since we live on a hill. Will pass this car onto my son wholl start driving in 2yrs & wanted a safe & reliable car. This is my 1st experience w/Subaru and had some reservations about their long term reliability but after learning their history & sitting behind the wheel you feel very safe.

• 

  Happy Buyer - 2009 Subaru Legacy
  By axyooj - July 29 - 1:20 am

  The car can be a comfortable cruiser in I-drive mode or a powerful, sports sedan in Sport Sharp mode. There is a perfect setting for your driving mood or road condition. The GT Ltd. version is sporty and responsive; plenty of power is just one downshift away and pressing the accelerator. The turbo whirls into action and with the standard AWD gripping the road--wet or dry--the vehicle simply flies. Winter is now here and I have no reservations driving my kids around in any weather condition. Research your options, test drive the competition and then the Legacy GT Ltd. and the car youll drive home is the Subaru.

• 

  Great Car Often Overlooked - 2003 Subaru Legacy
  By SensibleDriver - July 28 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. I have always owned new Subarus since my first Legacy in 1991. It was a L+ edition that was $18k. I drove it thru college and 140k miles. I then purchased an 96 Outback. In Oct.2003 I purchased this L Sped Ed Wagon, one of two 2003s left on the lot. I have been pleased with it! Got it for $19,500! Not much more than my first in 1991, but with many more features. Love the dual sunroofs. Goes in the snow like a tank!

• 

  Hot Sport Wagon - 2005 Subaru Legacy
  By Subywagonguy - July 28 - 12:33 am

  The GT Limited accelerates like a hot sports sedan and handles reasonably well. The front seats are very comfortable and theres plenty of room in the back seat. Both rear seat legroom and cargo space is much better than our 99 Audi A4. The stock Bridgestone RE-92 all-season tires are a weak point. Too much initial understeer and poor on-center response. Replaced them with a set of Goodyear F-1 GS-D3s which are much better. Factory optional STI shifter is a "must-get." Throws are MUCH shorter and feel is MUCH better in all 5 forward gears, but its a lot harder to get into reverse with the fast shifter. Shocks could be a little firmer-- too much float at high speeds.

• 

  13000 miles and no problems - 2005 Subaru Legacy
  By Chris - July 22 - 3:56 pm

  I had a 2000 Audi A6 Biturbo and then upgraded to a 2003 Allroad, before I finally got smart and got the Subaru GT. It is just as quick as the Audis, with more road nose, while the interior materials and finishes are 80% of the Audis. The Subaru does not handle nearly as well as the Audi, but there are no mystery 45 MPH wobble, dont have to have the brakes replaced every 5,000 miles, and no electrical problems. (all of which plagued both my Audi’s) As a consumer I would say that Subaru took the A4 – A6 and copied as much as they could to make an inexpensive version that is much more reliable. All in all the Subaru GT has been a great choice for my family, but I do miss the A6 Biturbo

• 

  At this price - what else compares? - 2000 Subaru Legacy
  By wpoulos - July 21 - 10:00 am

  This car is able to haul loads of stuff, has AWD, looks agressive, handles well, and is overall a fun car to drive (especially with the 5 speed). At this price point, there is not much that even comes close if those things are important to you. Audi A4 avant, BMW 325ix wagon, etc... are more $$$.