Subaru showdown: legacy vs crosstrek – compare prices, features, and reviews

What To Know

  • In terms of fuel economy, the Legacy offers an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the Crosstrek achieves 28 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
  • In terms of value, the Legacy provides a more luxurious and feature-rich experience, while the Crosstrek offers a more rugged and versatile package at a slightly lower price point.
  • The Subaru Crosstrek has slightly better fuel economy than the Subaru Legacy, with 28 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway compared to 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

When it comes to reliable and versatile vehicles, Subaru is a brand that consistently delivers. Two of their most popular models, the Legacy and Crosstrek, offer distinct advantages for different lifestyles and needs. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Subaru Legacy vs Crosstrek, helping you make an informed decision.

Exterior Design

The Subaru Legacy presents a sleek and sophisticated exterior, with a streamlined profile and sharp lines. Its low stance and 18-inch alloy wheels exude a sporty elegance. In contrast, the Crosstrek embraces a more rugged and adventurous design, featuring a higher ground clearance, protective body cladding, and 17-inch all-terrain tires.

Interior Space and Comfort

The Legacy boasts a spacious and well-appointed interior, with ample legroom and headroom for all passengers. Its high-quality materials and comfortable seats ensure a luxurious ride. The Crosstrek, while slightly smaller, offers a surprisingly spacious cabin with versatile seating configurations. Its large windows provide excellent visibility and create an airy atmosphere.

Engine Performance and Fuel Economy

The Legacy is available with two engine options: a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine and a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. The former delivers 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, while the latter produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The Crosstrek comes with a single 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine, generating 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. In terms of fuel economy, the Legacy offers an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the Crosstrek achieves 28 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.

Safety Features

Both the Legacy and Crosstrek are equipped with Subaru’s renowned EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes features such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Additionally, the Legacy offers a wider range of advanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, lane change assist, and rear cross-traffic alert.

Off-Road Capabilities

The Crosstrek shines in terms of off-road capabilities. Its higher ground clearance, all-wheel drive system, and X-Mode feature make it suitable for exploring rough terrain and navigating inclement weather conditions. The Legacy, while not as rugged as the Crosstrek, still offers decent off-road performance thanks to its standard all-wheel drive system and available Active Torque Vectoring.

Price and Value

The Subaru Legacy has a starting price of around $23,000, while the Crosstrek starts at approximately $22,000. Both models offer a wide range of trim levels and options, allowing buyers to customize their vehicles to meet their specific needs and budgets. In terms of value, the Legacy provides a more luxurious and feature-rich experience, while the Crosstrek offers a more rugged and versatile package at a slightly lower price point.

Which Car Is Right for You?

The Subaru Legacy is an excellent choice for drivers who prioritize comfort, style, and advanced safety features. Its spacious interior, powerful engine options, and sophisticated design make it ideal for daily commutes and long road trips.

The Subaru Crosstrek is a great option for those who seek adventure and off-road capabilities. Its rugged exterior, versatile interior, and all-wheel drive system make it a reliable companion for exploring the great outdoors.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Which car has better fuel economy?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek has slightly better fuel economy than the Subaru Legacy, with 28 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway compared to 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which car has more horsepower?
A: The Subaru Legacy has more horsepower than the Subaru Crosstrek, with 182 horsepower from its 2.5-liter engine and 260 horsepower from its 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, compared to 152 horsepower from the Crosstrek’s 2.0-liter engine.

Q: Which car has more off-road capabilities?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek has better off-road capabilities than the Subaru Legacy, thanks to its higher ground clearance, all-wheel drive system, and X-Mode feature.