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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  Subaru outdoes itself again... - 2010 Subaru Legacy
  By OhioStateSubaru - January 23 - 11:43 am

  I previously owned a 2006 Forester and loved it, but the hour long commutes and gas mileage are why I change to the new Legacy. I could not be more happy with the car: it rides great; it gets very good gas mileage (average is about 28 mpg overall with 31 highway) for an AWD car; the options, such as bluetooth and media hub are great. I also "love" the lighting in the car as well. The ride is quiet and controlled. The Harmon Radio sounds great. I love the new styling; I have received many compliments on it already. The interior room is huge. Simply put, this is one great vehicle (rival any car), and Subaru has outdone themselves once again. I can see why "Love" is the theme for Subaru.

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  Legacy at Head of Class - 2007 Subaru Legacy
  By SaintsFan - January 21 - 8:10 pm

  I wanted a mid-size sports sedan, and Legacy really stands out. Nothing under $21 K compared to it. I think engineering, not marketing is behind the Legacy. The 2.5 boxer engine runs smooth and provides plenty of power. AWD adds a whole lot to road performance (although it lowers fuel economy a bit). Interior is first class; no cheap material or gimmicks. Same outside; nice clean styling. Subaru says 95% of all its cars sold in the last ten years are still on the road. I tend to keep cars, so Im guessing mine will be, too, and still look good.

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  Comfortable, Economical and Reliable - 2006 Subaru Legacy
  By Dan - January 17 - 8:23 pm

  This is my third Subaru Legacy Wagon. I opted for all the features except the turbo and couldnt be happier with my choice. 87 Octane gas yielded 30mpg hwy over 380 miles on my last road trip. Acceleration is more than adequate and the manual shift feature allows for passing when needed. The seats provide a comfortable driving position for extended periods. The cabin is spacious -- made more so by light from the giant sunroof -- and also very quiet at highway speeds. the steering is well weighted -- the car feels nimble and lighter than it is. Overall this car provides comfortable and economical transportation with a host of features and quality thats unmatched for the money.

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  Fantastic now but - 2011 Subaru Legacy
  By Baltimoron - January 15 - 10:00 am

  Being a loyal Honda/Toyota family we ventured over to Subaru for offering a safe AWD sedan with good mpg . Only main concern is the history of the CVT with other manufacturers and its reliability factor. Not a believer in extended warranties we became one due to the CVT and purchased it. We have had the Legacy for one week and it is simply FANTASTIC. Solid, roomy, polished and spirited are just to start. Very Germanic feeling. Excellent build quality so far. No rattles or vibrations. For a family sedan handles great. We ordered ours with the HK radio for the blue tooth phone and media hub. Blue tooth works great and very clear and easy to use. Will update if anything changes.

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  Almost perfect - 2005 Subaru Legacy
  By newyorker - January 8 - 2:46 pm

  Almost a year and a half and zero problems. Fast and fun. My second subie, my first turbo. This is not your typical wagon, thats for sure. Handles great, even in winter months. The Bridgestone re92 stock tires are all right - nothing great yet decent all around. Rarely have anyone in back seats so cannot comment on leg room. Dash layout is great and good looking. Tons of room. Can put just about anything in this car. The ride can be a little rough for someone with a bad back on longer trips but its a GT and is supposed to have a stiff suspension so you cannot complain about things like that. All around A++.

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  Awesome so far... - 2012 Subaru Legacy
  By joesweetsox - January 6 - 12:37 am

  Recently became disenchanted with Honda over a seemingly endless string of mechanical failures on two cars I bought in 06. I traded the Civic in on a Legacy 2.5 Limited mostly because Ive never heard anything bad about Subaru, and the 2.5 Limited appeared to get slightly less mileage than the Civic. Now comparing a Civic to a Legacy isnt exactly fair, as they are different classes of car, but the build quality seems to be similar, the CV transmission is a little odd at first but given its goal is to find the optimum engine rev, not necessarily the quickest its just something to get used to. Ive put about 40 miles on it, and the fuel gauge has yet to budge.

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  The best in its class - 2007 Subaru Legacy
  By lyon - January 2 - 9:00 pm

  This is without any doubt the best car in its class. Sure you can have an Altima, Camry, or Accord but they just dont offer much when all is said and done. My Subaru Legacy Special Edition offers more then the competition. Just looking at the car you can tell its a drivers car. Every morning I cant wait to drive it. The engine feels like a V6 and with the trasmission in sport mode you can dust anyone off the line if you want to. The all wheel drive really makes a big difference. If you want to get on the car, it handles hard turns with ease. The level of perfomance cant be beat. A must-drive if you are in the market for a sedan at this pricepoint.

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  Never Regretted Choice - 2006 Subaru Legacy
  By Sue In Penn - December 31 - 12:20 am

  My first Subaru was a 2000 Outback Wagon which I traded in after 115,000 miles (but was still performing fine). I did not hesitate to get another Subaru but I wanted something different so I got the Legacy sedan. It handles so great in fast curves that it makes me feel like a professional driver. As with the Outback, Ive learned to absolutely love driving in the snow and despite driving a 70 mile roundtrip commute (in Pennsylvania) Ive never missed a day of work due to snow. I work at a hospital and am on-call and have to have a reliable way to quickly arrive following an emergency call in and this car has never let me down. Ive passed many stranded vehicles... even big SUVs.

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  Worth the wait - 2009 Subaru Legacy
  By Myra K - December 29 - 10:20 pm

  Ive had my Legacy for 1 year now and just love it. Its fun to drive and gets excellent highway miles. My first not a mom car...but its a really cool grandma car. Whenever I mentioned wanting to get a Subaru to anyone they always had good things to say about them whereas when Id mention possibly getting a different car they always had a nice car but... answers. We have owned 2 previous used Subarus in the past and have gotten almost 300,000 miles on them. Expect to get many dependable years from my Legacy.

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  "Sub" impressive - 2008 Subaru Legacy
  By Steve - December 27 - 8:10 am

  Bought it new. First disappointment was how big the combination key/remote is. Wont fit in my pocket. Then I found out the TPMS must be programmed by the $ dealer each time I put my snow tire rims on. I traded in the car after 18 months and 17,000 miles because the suspension is so stiff I could not take it any longer. Wind noise is awful. The engine was very rough and loud while the car was not moving. Trim on the driver door started falling off. 4 screws fell off the armrest and it fell apart. Hardly any heat would reach my feet. Annoying loud beeping sound when the trunk was opened. Way too small of a car for a six feet tall person. Seats stained from rainwater. Oh I could go on and on.