
The Good
The 2020 Subaru Legacy offers confident handling with standard AWD, appealing to practical buyers seeking safety and all-weather capability. Its comfortable ride and spacious interior provide a pleasant experience. The Legacy is known for its reliability, and offers good value for money, making it an emotionally satisfying and sensible choice.
The Bad
Some drivers find the base engine underpowered for confident passing. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) can feel unresponsive at times. The infotainment system, while improved, may still lag in responsiveness compared to some rivals. Watch out for potential issues with the EyeSight system's sensors.
2020 Subaru Legacy: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder (Base, Premium, Sport, Limited)
- 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (Limited XT, Touring XT)
- Horsepower:
- 2.5L: 182 hp
- 2.4T: 260 hp
- Fuel Economy:
- 2.5L: EPA-estimated 27 mpg city / 35 mpg highway
- 2.4T: EPA-estimated 24 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.5L: Around 8.4 seconds
- 2.4T: Around 6.1 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not Recommended for Towing
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.
- Premium: 11.6-inch touchscreen, heated front seats, power driver's seat, dual-zone climate control.
- Sport: Sport-tuned suspension, unique exterior styling, keyless access with push-button start.
- Limited: Leather upholstery, heated rear seats, blind-spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert.
- Limited XT: Turbocharged engine, power moonroof, navigation system.
- Touring XT: Nappa leather upholstery, heated steering wheel, driver monitoring system, front view monitor.
2020 Subaru Legacy Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2020 |
Make | Subaru |
Model | Legacy |
Trim | - |
Style | - |
Type | Sedan |
Category | Large Car |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | - |
Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | 3499 pounds |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
Overall Height | 59.1 inches |
Overall Length | 190.6 inches |
Overall Width | 72.4 inches |
Wheelbase Length | 108.3 inches |
Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
Engine | Regular Unleaded H-4 2.5 L/152 |
Engine Size | 2.5L |
Engine Cylinders | 4 |
Transmission | 8 Continuously Variable Transmission w/OD |
Transmission Type | CVT w/OD |
Transmission Speeds | 8-Speed |
Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $22,745 |
Invoice Price | - |
Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2020 Subaru Legacy Have?
There have been some recalls for the 2020 Legacy, primarily related to potential fuel pump failures that could lead to stalling. It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN for any open recalls.
Long-term reliability concerns mainly revolve around the CVT and the potential for oil consumption in the engine, although this seems less prevalent in the 2020 model compared to earlier years. Ensuring regular maintenance, especially fluid changes for the CVT, is crucial for long-term durability. Subaru's EyeSight system, while helpful, can sometimes experience false positives or require recalibration. Checking for software updates can help address some of these issues. Before purchasing, a thorough inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended.
How long will the 2020 Subaru Legacy last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The base model features a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Higher trims boast a large 11.6-inch touchscreen, which controls most vehicle functions. Optional features include a Harman Kardon premium audio system, a power moonroof, and a navigation system.
Safety is a strong point. The 2020 Subaru Legacy earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These ratings reflect the vehicle's performance in crash tests and the effectiveness of its safety features. Features like reverse automatic braking are available on higher trims. The combination of active and passive safety systems contributes to the Legacy's excellent safety record.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2020 Subaru Legacy Prices and Market Value
2020 Subaru Legacy Cost of Ownership
2020 Subaru Legacy Fuel Efficiency
2020 Subaru Legacy Safety Rating
NHTSA
2020 Subaru Legacy Recalls & Defects
Back Over Prevention:display Function
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:pedals and Linkages
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm)
Power Train:driveline:chain/Belt
Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm)
Power Train:driveline:chain/Belt
AIR Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger
2020 Subaru Legacy Warranty
Basic
Corrosion
Drivetrain
Roadside Assistance
2020 Subaru Legacy Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2020 Subaru Legacy Compare to Other Sedan?
Reliability is a strong suit for both the Legacy, Camry and Accord. Feature-wise, the Legacy provides a generous suite of standard driver-assistance technologies. Pricing is competitive, often falling in line with its rivals.
Alternatives to consider include the Toyota Camry for its proven reliability and diverse engine options, and the Honda Accord for its engaging driving dynamics and spacious interior. The Mazda6 is a good choice for those prioritizing style. The Nissan Altima also offers available all-wheel drive. If all-wheel drive isn't a necessity, the Camry and Accord might be better options due to their stronger resale value and more refined driving experience. However, for all-weather capability and a comfortable ride, the Legacy remains a compelling choice.
Ranks #422 Sedan
1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
422 | 2020 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2020 Subaru Legacy a Good Sedan?
Display Name Here on June 27, 2022
Jack of All Trades, Master of NoneBought brand new off the lot in January 2020 and I've put just under 20K miles into it so far. Here's what I've seen so far: Good: - AWD keeps you on the road in even the most slushy and icy conditions. Driven this car through a few snow storms and never had to worry about losing control. - The driving assist safety features work very well, definitely has saved me from a couple minor incidents. Also the adaptive cruise control has revolutionized long roadtrips and I'll absolutely never be able to go back - Interior looks fresh and clean, seats are very comfortable. I'm always surprised how much trunk space this car has, plus the folding back seat make transporting some bulkier items easy. Bad: - I absolutely despise the entertainment system. The huge touch screen is cool but it is sluggish and unreliable. Often the inputs will lag several seconds or not register at all, which sucks when you're trying to turn on the AC on a hot day or the heat in the winter. The worst part is that sometimes when you start the car up, the user interface software won't start correctly and will crash, disabling all of the vehicle's safety features. Usually this fixes itself with an automatic reboot but that often takes a couple minutes. Once or twice I've had to pull of the road, turn off the car and turn it on again to manually cycle power to the console interface. - There's absolutely no reason to buy the sport mode when the CVT is so sluggish. Paddle shifters seem like they're almost disconnected as the difference between the "gears" is so minimal. - No way to disable the auto start/stop system, have to hit the touchscreen button every time. Overall: - I'd still recommend this car since the good definitely outweighs the bad. It's a car that does a lot of things decently but nothing exceedingly well. If you want a sports sedan, get the WRX. If you want a car that can handle rough driving conditions, get the Outback. If you want something more akin to a luxury sedan, go up a trim level to the Limited XT CVT. If you want a car that does all these things but doesn't lean too hard into any of them, this is your pick.
MK Alumni on May 6, 2021
Major ride improvement over the 2018 LegacyThe Ride is far better than the 2018 Legacy, the Turbo 4cyl with 260 HP makes a big difference when merging from an on ramp to major highway. The safety equipment is amazing. Subaru somehow built in shift points to the CVT. That along with the paddle shifters help the car perform more like a standard shift. The interior is much like a luxury vehicle. Fantastic comfy Nappa leather seating is first rate.
PNW commuter on November 15, 2020
The perfect Pacific Northwest commuter carTrim: Premium I waited for a major software update prior to posting this review. The update was huge for ease of use and for iPhone CarPlay integration. With the update, I find this to be a very comfortable vehicle, with fuel efficiency (31.8 miles to the gallon average with 6,000 miles), a superbly laid out interior, many storage places, and great technology with the 11.6†touch screen as the hub for everything in the car. The CVT in the car definitely inhibits the thrill of driving, but by turning off the “auto stop†feature each trip, the lack of get-up-and-go is not very noticeable. Great size trunk and the all-wheel drive has held up well on wet roads and handles well (have not tested it in snow yet).
Stephen on November 3, 2020
Love this carFor a base model this car has a lot of nice features that I am very happy with. Rides nice Handles nice. This is my 3rd Subaru Legacy 2011, 2017, and 2020.
Lesterp2 on October 13, 2020
I just this carI love the size and the way it drives. I down sized from a minivan I called the granny price. I don’t miss it at all
John S on October 2, 2020
Most Luxurious/Practical Car I've OwnedSubaru Legacy is great. This is my second one. I appreciate Subaru's sticking with designs and features that work, and not being so quick to run off to the next flashy idea. The effectiveness of the all-wheel drive cannot be over-praised. My first Legacy gave me no problems, and that is why I bought this one.
Maggie on September 18, 2020
HORRIBLE MFDI regret the purchase of this vehicle because of the MFD. This vehicle has the worst nav system i have ever seen. Even with recent updates and the dealer assuring me it works great, it doesn't. The voice command function is useless, the gps is outdated and doesn't give the best routes, too many controls are incorporated in the touchscreen, so your eyes are not on the road, and it turns off every time I start the car, which is just great when I am traveling and my phone's gps disappears (and I have to use my phone because the super expensive one in the car doesn't work). Half the time it doesn't recognize my phone. The USB ports are so awkwardly placed that normal adult hands can barely plug something in. The car is great to drive on long trips and the safety features are great. If the MFD were any good, this would be an excellent car instead of one of the 3 biggest regrets of my life.
Retired on September 17, 2020
Couldn't Ask for MoreI love this car. Every trip is a joy even though the purpose may be very mundane. Driving is safer with automatic headlights; fog lane warning And more comfortable with console allowing a variety of listening choices.
JayKay on September 7, 2020
Love this itBlue color and wheels keep it from looking like an old man car. Not real powerful engine but I don’t care. GREAT safety features and fantastic speakers in Limited version. 34 mpg so far. Replaced my 2013 Prius yet car insurance cost the same. They must know something about safety and reliability.
LovemySubaru on August 31, 2020
Love my SubaruOnly had my Legacy Limited a few days, but loving it. Great features, comfortable ride, looks good and excellent safety ratings. Great vehicle for the price. Looking forward to years with this vehicle.