2016 Subaru Legacy Pros vs Cons

For years, the Subaru Legacy has remained a solid mid-size sedan. While the Legacy has never been a top-seller, it still deserves to be mentioned among the best. Equipped with a CVT, the 2016 Subaru Legacy makes fuel efficiency at top priority. Safety is also one of this sedan’s strong points. Meanwhile, Subaru’s proven AWD system comes standard.

What’s new for 2016?

Although Subaru did not alter the sedan’s styling, the Legacy was engineered with a better steering system. The Limited model also benefits from a tweaked suspension system. Lane Keep Assist is now included in the EyeSight safety system.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2016 Subaru Legacy - The Pros

1) Smooth Base Engine

The Legacy’s base four-cylinder continues to be applauded for its smooth performance. When called upon, the 2.5-liter engine can produce 175 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. Although the base Legacy is not exceptionally fast, it has no trouble in keeping up with the flow of traffic. The engine’s smoothness is enhanced by a continuous variable transmission.

2) Potent Six-Cylinder Engine

Luckily, the 2016 Subaru Legacy is also available with a bigger engine. The six-cylinder engine develops an engaging 256 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. Due to the extra power under the hood, the 3.6R Limited model is quite fun to drive. When merging onto the freeway, the engine’s peppy performance will come in handy.

3) Efficient Continuous Variable Transmission

A CVT comes standard with both engines. During real-world driving situations, the transmission never feels lazy or unresponsive. The overall effectiveness of the CVT definitely helps to increase gas mileage. While the base engine is rated at 36 mpg on the highway, the V-6 engine can deliver 29 mpg when cruising along the open road.

4) Confident Handling

Due to its revised steering system, the 2016 Subaru Legacy is a pleasure to drive. Although a sports-tuned suspension is not offered, the sedan remains very composed on the road. When approaching a curve in the road, drivers will feel extremely confident while behind the wheel of the Legacy. The Legacy's overall handling is on par with the majority of today's family sedans.

5) Comfort-Tuned Suspension

For the drivers who desire the best ride comfort, they should opt for the Limited model. Subaru engineered the Limited model with a suspension system that has been tuned to be extremely plush. Bumps in the road are barely even felt by the passengers. The extra comfort makes the Limited model a fantastic highway cruiser.

6) Symmetrical AWD System

Unlike most of the other family sedans on the market, the 2016 Subaru Legacy comes standard with all-wheel drive. While the Symmetrical AWD system may not make a big difference on a perfect day, it delivers outstanding stability in bad weather. To ensure a balanced performance on the road, power is evenly transferred to all of the wheels.

7) Very Budget-Friendly 2.5i Model

Although a fully-loaded 3.6R model can top out at $35,000, the base 2.5i model will save buyers a lot of money. The starting price is about $21,745. Standard features such as a 6.2-inch touch-screen display and a rear-view camera help bolster the sedan’s value. The base model’s superior gas mileage is also a major plus.

8) Very Safe Automobile

The 2016 Subaru Legacy is one of the safest sedans on the road. Aside from its top-tier safety rating, the Legacy also benefits from a very strong braking system. Even the base model has a shorter stopping distance than a lot of its competitors. Pedestrian-detection and a collision warning system are included in the EyeSight safety package.

9) Roomy Family Sedan

Passengers will find the sedan’s cabin to be very spacious. Due to the cabin’s relatively narrow center console, the driver will have plenty of room to wiggle their legs. The trunk also provides enough space to store quite a few suitcases.

10) Great Outward Visibility

When searching for a new ride, some car shoppers tend to overlook the importance of outward visibility. The Legacy’s excellent outward visibility means that the driver will be less reliant on technology. Furthermore, a high seating position enables the driver to view the entire road.

Reasons you may not want to buy a 2016 Subaru Legacy - The Cons

1) No Sports-Tuned Suspension Option

While the majority of drivers can appreciate an extremely comfortable ride, there are some car enthusiasts who prefer a sporting driving experience. A sports-tuned suspension would certainly improve the Legacy’s fun factor.

2) Base Engine Delivers Slower Than Average Acceleration

When fitted with the base four-cylinder engine, the 2016 Subaru Legacy is a bit slower than some of the competition. When launched from a standstill, the sedan will take about nine seconds to reach 60 mph.

3) Conservative Styling

Most people will consider the 2016 Subaru Legacy to be a rather handsome sedan. However, it does not have any standout styling cues.

How it stacks up to the competition:

Some of the key rivals include the Toyota Camry, the Honda Accord, and the Chevrolet Malibu. Unfortunately, these mid-size sedans are not available with an AWD system. Unlike the 2016 Subaru Legacy, the Mazda 6 does not even offer a V-6 engine upgrade.

Conclusion:

When considering its numerous strengths, the 2016 Subaru Legacy proves to be a superb family sedan. Although it cannot match the excitement of a true sports sedan, it still keeps the driver involved. Only a handful of sedans can rival the Legacy’s excellent crash protection. Owners can also benefit from the sedan's high resale value.