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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  Great car - 2006 Subaru Legacy
  By charlie123 - June 24 - 3:06 pm

  This is our 6th Subaru and the best so far. Acceleration isnt breath taking, but adequate, especially considering that I get 31+ for most of my driving which is 10% city and 90% mountain hwy. Good room, comfortable interior and pretty quiet/smooth ride. Lots of goodies for the money, with almost every power "option" is standard. All wheel drive is great especially for winter driving. I dont have to be concerned about being able to get home. We paid less than $18,000, which is a great buy! Very nimble handling on the "twisties", really a fun car to drive!

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  2005 Subaru Wagon. Great value - 2005 Subaru Legacy
  By Lodgical - June 22 - 4:26 am

  The dealer is 200 miles away, but the service was superior to any closer dealers. The power is fantastic - roll on from any speed and you have lots of it. The car could use a few niceties, such as stereo controls on the steering wheel, memory seats and a little more rear leg room. Other than that, it has been reliable, fun to drive and comfortable. We just returned from a family vacation of 3000 miles return trip. Not many complaints from my wife and daughter.

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  Terrific Value for Luxury Sedan - 2005 Subaru Legacy
  By Subie Do - June 20 - 10:23 pm

  This is our fourth Subaru. We purchased this one for its new design, especially the interior and its many appointments and options. Subaru has always had an unbeatable AWD system, and this one is no different. Ive never felt more comfortable driving in poor weather conditions than in this car. Our only complaint would be the lower powered motor makes the transmission jump down too frequently. But using "sport shift" takes care of that. Audio system is excellent, but wed love to be able to plug in our iPods!

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  Awesome Car! - 2005 Subaru Legacy
  By Kayleigh - June 19 - 8:06 am

  I had been eyeing this car up for almost a year before I decided to buy it. You dont see many of them on the road because Subaru isnt exactly a household name, but Im glad theyve kept this car a secret. I put over 500 miles on the car in the first week of ownership because it is so fun to drive. I feel bad leaving it in the garage. It begs to be driven!

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  Almost Perfect - 2006 Subaru Legacy
  By NMN - June 18 - 9:36 am

  The only car I have ever purchased, including 3 Hondas, where everything was perfect straight from the factory. Car is tight as a drum. It proves an American factory can produce a great vehicle. It also proves that Japanese engineering is superior to ours. Could use a bit more low end grunt, but has real speed over 60. Getting 22 to 26 MPG. Friends with Subarus say they really loosen up and improve power and MPG after 5K miles. All-wheel-drive works like a charm. Brakes/handling are average. Power steering is a bit too light. The car moves around in a strong wind on the highway. Ergonomics and small switch design/placement need improvement. Quiet as a Lexus. Great overall package.

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  Worth every penny. - 2006 Subaru Legacy
  By John - June 18 - 1:40 am

  Wow. I had a Honda before and it pales in comparison to this vehicle. I have always noticed Subarus, but never thought I could be this happy with one. I love driving it. The sport shifter is perfect for me, since I have always had a manual up until now. I still get to go through the motions and control the engine. I am at one with the road in this vehicle it is such a smooth drive. Everyone comments on it. You will not be disappointed.

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  We love our Legacy - 2017 Subaru Legacy
  By Harold Vick - June 9 - 1:21 pm

  We think the car exceeds our expectations

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  Everyday, glad I bought it - 2006 Subaru Legacy
  By e_dawgin - June 9 - 3:53 am

  Couldnt be any happier. Fun to drive, sporty, good looking. It can also very easily be turned into a 300hp monster. For the sporty driver with too much stuff and family for the WRX. Around town, high rating, highway even higher.

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  Love at first sight! Dare to be Different! - 2017 Subaru Legacy
  By Kek - June 4 - 11:41 am

  When I first saw my 2017 white Legacy Sport on the Subaru lot, I knew I was going to purchase it. The look of the sport model is fresher than the other Legacy models. After looking at dozens of Camrys and Accords, I just didnt want to be another person trying to get into someone elses car in a large parking lot because their Accord looked exactly like mine. This Legacy is what you get if you want to be unique, and not just another Camry/Accord driver. The safety features (Eyesight, high beam assist, etc) are excellent for a car in this price range and its no wonder all the other midsize cars have scrambled to catch up. The complaints I have are that the AUDIO system is horrible. Had I listened closer during my test drive, I would not have purchased the car because I am a music lover and music sounds horrible in the Legacy. There are no settings you can choose to help it other than balance all the sound onto the back speakers. If youre looking at a Legacy and like a nice AUDIO system, be sure to get the upgraded Harmon Kardon system. Also, the heating system seems to take too long to put out heat. I blame the 4 cylinder engine for this lack of heating power. On very cold days, the car seems to accelerate very sluggishly until it gets warmed up. Again another disadvantage I blame on the 4 cylinder engine. Everything else about the Legacy is great. The price, AWD, safety features and roomy interior are all hard to beat.

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  3.0R around 1k miles initial review - 2009 Subaru Legacy
  By Eui - June 1 - 10:40 am

  This car suit my needs well. 4DR sedan with AWD, enough power, comfortable ride. It has all the features that I need, plus a moon roof that I did not really need (standard on 3.0R). All that for around $25k price tag was acceptable. I dont make much use of SI drive. I leave it on Sport mode, and take it easy on the throttle instead of making the computer do it for me. That way, I get fuel economy and throttle response also when needed. The MPG gauge does not show much of a difference unless I use low gear acceleration with Sport mode. Score of 6 for fuel economy is fair. Any worse then 17 city and 24 highway then I would not have considered this car, and the estimate seems accurate.