What To Know
- The Legacy boasts impressive fuel economy, with the base engine achieving an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
- The S60’s turbocharged engine is slightly less fuel-efficient than the Legacy’s base engine, with an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
- The S60 offers a wide range of comfort and convenience features, including heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system.
When it comes to midsize sedans, two prominent contenders emerge: the Subaru Legacy and the Volvo S60. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and luxury. This blog post delves into a detailed comparison of the Subaru Legacy vs. Volvo S60, examining their key features, specifications, and overall value proposition.
Performance: Power and Handling
Subaru Legacy: The Legacy offers a choice of two engines: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 182 horsepower and a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 260 horsepower. The latter provides impressive acceleration and passing power. The Legacy’s standard all-wheel drive system enhances stability and traction in all weather conditions.
Volvo S60: The S60 comes equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 250 horsepower. It delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience. The S60 also features an optional all-wheel drive system for improved grip and handling.
Fuel Efficiency: Mile-Munching Machines
Subaru Legacy: The Legacy boasts impressive fuel economy, with the base engine achieving an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged engine offers slightly lower fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
Volvo S60: The S60’s turbocharged engine is slightly less fuel-efficient than the Legacy’s base engine, with an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. However, the S60’s optional plug-in hybrid variant offers exceptional fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 69 MPGe in electric-only mode and 39 mpg combined.
Interior Comfort and Convenience
Subaru Legacy: The Legacy’s interior is spacious and well-equipped, with comfortable seating for five adults. The dashboard is intuitive and easy to navigate, featuring a large touchscreen display. Standard features include dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, and a 10-speaker sound system.
Volvo S60: The S60’s interior exudes Scandinavian luxury and minimalism. The cabin is exquisitely crafted with high-quality materials and boasts a spacious and airy feel. The S60 offers a wide range of comfort and convenience features, including heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system.
Safety: Confidence on the Road
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). Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
Volvo S60: Volvo is renowned for its unwavering commitment to safety. The S60 has also earned top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. It comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system.
Technology and Connectivity
Subaru Legacy: The Legacy’s infotainment system, StarLink, offers a user-friendly interface and a wide range of features. It includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a built-in navigation system. The Legacy also features a premium sound system and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Volvo S60: The S60’s infotainment system, Sensus Connect, is highly intuitive and feature-rich. It seamlessly integrates with smartphones and offers a wide range of connected services. The S60 also boasts a premium sound system and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Value Proposition: Bang for Your Buck
Subaru Legacy: The Legacy offers excellent value for money. It provides a spacious and well-equipped interior, impressive performance, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. The base model starts at an attractive price point, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Volvo S60: The S60 commands a premium price tag but delivers an exceptional level of luxury, safety, and technology. It offers a refined driving experience, a beautifully crafted interior, and a comprehensive range of features. While it may be more expensive than the Legacy, the S60 provides a higher level of overall value.
Which One Should You Choose: Legacy or S60?
The choice between the Subaru Legacy and the Volvo S60 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Subaru Legacy if:
- You prioritize all-wheel drive capability and fuel efficiency
- You value a spacious and well-equipped interior
- You seek a budget-friendly option with a strong value proposition
Choose the Volvo S60 if:
- You desire a luxurious and refined driving experience
- You prioritize safety and a comprehensive suite of technology features
- You are willing to pay a premium for exceptional craftsmanship and Scandinavian design
Recommendations: A Tale of Two Exceptional Sedans
Both the Subaru Legacy and the Volvo S60 are outstanding midsize sedans that offer a unique blend of performance, practicality, and refinement. The Legacy excels in all-wheel drive capability and value for money, while the S60 delivers an unparalleled level of luxury, safety, and technology. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific priorities and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which car has a more powerful engine?
A: The Volvo S60 offers slightly more horsepower (250 hp) than the Subaru Legacy‘s turbocharged engine (260 hp).
Q: Which car is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Subaru Legacy offers slightly better fuel economy than the Volvo S60, especially with its base engine.
Q: Which car has a more spacious interior?
A: Both the Subaru Legacy and the Volvo S60 offer spacious interiors with comfortable seating for five adults.