What To Know
- 0-liter engine achieves up to 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while the 3.
- The TLX is priced higher than the Legacy, but it offers a more luxurious and performance-oriented experience.
- If you seek a more luxurious and performance-oriented sedan with sharp handling and a powerful engine, the TLX is a compelling option.
When it comes to midsize sedans, the Subaru Legacy and Acura TLX stand out as two of the most formidable contenders. Both offer a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and practicality, making them ideal choices for discerning drivers. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of these two automotive powerhouses to help you make an informed decision.
Powertrain and Performance
Subaru Legacy: The Legacy boasts a standard 2.5-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. For a more spirited experience, the XT trim features a turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer engine that unleashes 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive.
Acura TLX: The TLX offers a choice of two powertrains: a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four that generates 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter V6 that produces 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and available with front-wheel or all-wheel drive.
Interior and Technology
Subaru Legacy: The Legacy’s interior exudes a sense of spaciousness and comfort. The standard 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system is intuitive and feature-rich, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a variety of connectivity options. The cabin is well-appointed with soft-touch materials and comfortable seats.
Acura TLX: The TLX’s cabin is equally impressive, showcasing premium materials and meticulous craftsmanship. The standard 10.2-inch infotainment screen is sharp and responsive, and the AcuraLink system provides a comprehensive suite of connected services. The front seats offer ample support and adjustability, while the rear seats provide generous legroom.
Safety and Reliability
Subaru Legacy: The Legacy has consistently earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It comes standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Subaru is also renowned for its excellent reliability record.
Acura TLX: The TLX has also received high safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. It features a similar array of advanced safety technologies to the Legacy, including collision mitigation, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Acura has a solid reputation for reliability, but it may not quite match Subaru’s exceptional track record.
Handling and Driving Dynamics
Subaru Legacy: The Legacy provides a comfortable and composed ride, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and responsive steering. The all-wheel drive system ensures excellent traction in all weather conditions. The turbocharged XT trim offers a more engaging driving experience with its potent engine and sporty handling.
Acura TLX: The TLX is known for its sharp handling and athleticism. The available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system delivers precise cornering and enhanced stability. The V6 engine provides ample power for spirited driving, while the 10-speed automatic transmission offers smooth and responsive shifts.
Fuel Economy and Value
Subaru Legacy: The Legacy’s fuel economy is impressive for a midsize sedan. The base model achieves up to 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The XT trim returns 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. The Legacy offers a competitive price point, especially considering its standard all-wheel drive and extensive safety features.
Acura TLX: The TLX’s fuel economy is slightly lower than the Legacy’s. The 2.0-liter engine achieves up to 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while the 3.0-liter V6 returns 19 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The TLX is priced higher than the Legacy, but it offers a more luxurious and performance-oriented experience.
Which One is Right for You?
The Subaru Legacy and Acura TLX are both excellent midsize sedans with unique strengths and appeals. If you prioritize all-wheel drive, fuel efficiency, and reliability, the Legacy is an exceptional choice. If you seek a more luxurious and performance-oriented sedan with sharp handling and a powerful engine, the TLX is a compelling option.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which car has a more powerful engine?
A: The Acura TLX with the 3.0-liter V6 engine has a more powerful engine than the Subaru Legacy with the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine.
Q: Which car has a better fuel economy?
A: The Subaru Legacy has a better fuel economy than the Acura TLX.
Q: Which car has a more spacious interior?
A: The Subaru Legacy has a more spacious interior than the Acura TLX.
Q: Which car is more reliable?
A: The Subaru Legacy has a better reputation for reliability than the Acura TLX.
Q: Which car has a better infotainment system?
A: The Acura TLX has a more advanced infotainment system than the Subaru Legacy.
Q: Which car has a better safety rating?
A: Both the Subaru Legacy and Acura TLX have top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.