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:

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  Love my grandma car! - 2016 Subaru Legacy
  By JP - June 26 - 12:49 pm

  I came to the Legacy in a very strange way. I had no interest in buying a middle of the road sedan. I was set on buying either a F-150 or 4-Runner (my previous vehicle). But I had been without a car for nearly 2 months and after looking at the $40k price tag of trucks/suvs, I came to the conclusion Id get a car then later buy a truck as a second vehicle. When selecting a car I typically prefer hatchbacks but dont care for the pokey 2.0 engine in the crosstrek/impreza. I also looked at some other sedans but what I like about Subarus is the large pass through from the trunk to the back seats when folded down. I can fit my bike in easily and it just has tons of cargo room. The interior is also very spacious, and I liked the extra cabin space and room around the driver (remember this is same platform as the outback). For the price of $25k (and I didnt even negotiate as I was exhausted after 2 months of car searching), it came with features more expensive vehicles didnt have (homelink, all-weather car mats, heated seats, awd). I was going to go with the 3.6 limited, but this was just a commuter car so I didnt want to spend another $7k for the bigger engine and leather. Also, I have been pleasantly surprised at the acceleration of the 2.5 engine when paired with the CVT. It is way better than what I remember when driving other peoples Subarus. Not to mention, Im averaging 30mpg with 90% city driving!!!!! So when I say I love my grandma car, I mean it is a 4 cylinder sedan that hauls lots of stuff and gets great gas mileage and is very comfortable in town as well as on the highway. I also looked at the Honda Accord, Mazda 6, and VW GLI and VW GTI (which I have previously owned). All those cars have their positives. Overall I liked the space and cargo capacity of this one. I also like the easy/simple LCD display, traditional tachometer/speedometer, and well designed ergonomics. The only downside I have noticed of this vehicle is the CVT transmission can be a little rough when decelerating/going downhill at certain speeds (mostly I notice it right about 35-40 mph going downhill). But other than that, I never really notice that Im driving a CVT. The stock speakers were also terrible (I upgraded mine). A good choices for a sedan if you value spaciousness and cargo capacity. And apparently resale is excellent on these vehicles (as it is with most Japanese brands). Great practical car. You just wont win any fun awards with it.

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  Previous Owner Returns to Subaru - 2004 Subaru Legacy
  By Barry Segars - June 22 - 10:00 am

  My first turn in the test drive, the car read my mind. I became amazed to be turning just by thinking it. The car seems that responsive! The brakes, all 4 wheels, stop fast & smooth. Listen during the test drive. You can converseas clearly as if you were communicating face to face {very quiet ride!}. The acceleration is good if youre trying to keep out of trouble but this isnt your car if youre appreciate a zippy response. I get 23 mpg in the city and 28 on the Interstate. The seatbelt fits like a dream. The stereo claims to be 40 watts but it performs like 20. The easy access storage areas are still stupid as they were in 1995.

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  Legacy 3.6R Limited - 2011 Subaru Legacy
  By Subie Nubie - June 20 - 10:00 am

  This car has plenty of interior room, especially without the sunroof. A very capable, comfortable cruiser. I find it strange that the body side molding is a dealer installed option. I am still waiting for the molding to be installed, as it has been back ordered for several weeks. This car has a lot of grip, although the suspension is a bit floaty. The rear suspension often bounces again after each bump.

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  First impression... - 2010 Subaru Legacy
  By GBockers - June 16 - 6:40 am

  Mine is the 2010 Legacy Premium 2.5i with CVT. The only option is XM satellite radio, otherwise stock. I love the exterior, in my opinion it resembles the Lexus IS250. The car feels solid, quality build. The 2.5i CVT with 170 hp is healthy; I traded down from a luxury car because of divorce. Besides the luxury doo-dads this car is just fine thank you. Smooth acceleration, not "jerky" from a dead stop. Feels like a performance car to me, it hugs the road. Im just finishing my first tank of gas which gave 24 mpg in mostly back roads / highway driving. Hoping that will improve. Premium package is very basic, although the brushed metal appointments interior are nice.

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  SPEC B is the car to buy - 2006 Subaru Legacy
  By SpecB - June 16 - 6:13 am

  I was comparing the A4 3.1, 330Xi, and the Legacy GT. I came home with the Spec B for $7-8K less money and very similar performance and comfort. Admittedly, the interior and luxury is a bit better in the A4 and Bimmer, but this is a great buy! Test drive the GT and youll see. It is a great drive, fun and responsive.

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  Reliability & a Great Driver Too! - 2006 Subaru Legacy
  By Ed - June 13 - 9:56 am

  Im 44 & a driving enthusiast. Ive owned many brands of cars. This Legacy combines the reliability & quality of a good Japanese brand with the driving feel of a European car. I traded in my VW Jetta and Audi A6 for this car and have never looked back. I was tired of the repair bills and inconvenience of the "down time", but thought I would miss the driving feel of those brands. Not so! The AWD makes the handling of this car very neutral, and the suspension soaks up bumps while remaining responsive. The steering has good feel and its not too over-assisted. The normally aspirated engine revs easily and has plenty of power for daily driving & the 5 speed makes good use of it while adding fun.

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  2011 Subaru with 54,000 mileage - 2011 Subaru Legacy
  By jonster1 - June 13 - 3:36 am

  I do not like the CVT transmission on this car but it seems to be the wave of the future. Other than that, this car has taken me through two brutal winters where the snow would normally keep me from my driveway on top of a steep hill. With the Legacy (I traded in a BMW 528i), I have no problems making it up that hill. There is nothing like the traction of a Subaru in snow and rain. I love this car and plan on buying it when it comes off lease in another few months. For $24K, I got the Winter Package and a sunroof. I think its an amazing value. A $20K Mercedes.

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  Just drive one - 2006 Subaru Legacy
  By sonny123 - June 12 - 12:40 pm

  I have just spent the last two days driving my wifes new Legacy SE. It is IMHO significantly more refined and just plain fun to drive than either my own 01 Infinity or the new 07 Camry, 06 Accord and 06 Sonata v6 which I have driven on real test drives in various conditions. With the SE auto, on a 600 mile road trip, just notched 29 mpg in mixed driving (80% hwy) and it’s a hoot to drive on back roads. The all wheel drive and excellent balance makes you want to search for reasons to take the roads less traveled, even in the base SE.

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  Fantastic and sophistocated drive - 2006 Subaru Legacy
  By Marc - June 11 - 11:03 am

  Would never have thought I would own a Subaru. Just saw this HOT car while out looking at the Mazda 6 on the other side of the lot. My final decision was between the IS300 and this car. The Legacy had more to offer for less money. Its been 6 months and I have 12,000 miles on it. Still drives, looks, sounds and smells like new. I will never be able to buy anything without the AWD. It is also very comforting to know you are in one of the safest vehicles. I would recommend this car to anyone; it is a fit for just about every type of person.

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  Reliable, but boring... - 2003 Subaru Legacy
  By ilovesnow - June 11 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car because it made the most sense for me - lots of room and all wheel drive for only $17,500. What I failed to take into account was the "fun to drive" factor. Lets be honest - this car is boring to look at and to drive. The all-wheel-drive is great, but it drains all the power that the engine has to offer. The power band on the car is really strange as well. The engine sounds great up to 3500 RPM and above 4500 RPM, but between those two limits, it sounds awful. Lastly, the drivers seat is very uncomfortable on long drives. I prefer a hard seat with lumbar support.