2024 Subaru Legacy

We like the interior, which is largely shared with the rugged Outback. Base versions look chintzy with dual 7.0-inch screens, but the 11.3-incher fitted to other versions has a modern style. (If only its display worked better in bright, direct light.)

How fast is the Subaru Legacy?

The base 182-hp 2.5-liter flat-four delivers OK power, but it won’t thrill. Subaru slides its 260-hp turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-4 into the Legacy Sport and Touring XT trims, which can be expensive but are also pretty quick. 

On all, the CVT can feel a little too snappy—even after some acclimation. It’s hard to get a smooth start in these cars, and we’re not sure why Subaru refuses to address this. 

Light but precise steering helps the Legacy feel maneuverable around town. It doesn’t tighten up much for more spirited driving, though highway stability impresses. These cars have a balanced chassis, yet they’re tuned more for comfort than they are for hustling. Save that duty for the WRX.

About 40 inches of rear-seat legroom awaits those who didn’t call “shotgun” loud enough. The rear bench has good padding, too, and most versions have additional climate control vents.

The 15.1 cubic-foot trunk has a wide opening and little intrusion from the all-wheel-drive system’s rear axle.

Those assets math their way to a 9 on the TCC scale. It can’t do hands-off driving, which is why it’s not a 10.

Blind-spot monitors come on Sport and higher trims, and they’re optional on the Premium. Top trims come with a driver-attention monitor that can admonish wayward glances from the pilot’s seat. Additionally, the Touring XT has a slightly more advanced crash-avoidance system that can better detect cyclists and pedestrians.

The base Legacy runs just under $26,000, which buys cloth seats, 17-inch wheels, two curiously integrated 7.0-inch touchscreens, driver-assistance tech, and cloth seats. 

Which Subaru Legacy should I buy?

For about $2,300 more, the Legacy Premium adds a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a far better 11.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, additional USB inputs, and rear-seat climate control vents. That’s money well spent.

If you want to spend more, another $1,000 nets blind-spot monitors, keyless start, and fog lights. 

But we’d be more inclined to jump from the Premium to the Limited, which at $33,000 has leather trim and heated rear seats, plus a few other niceties. 

How much is a fully loaded Subaru Legacy?

The Legacy Touring XT nudges the price tag to $38,195 with its turbocharged engine, nappa leather seats, cooled front seats, Harman/Kardon audio, and driver attention monitor.