The Good
The 2021 Subaru Legacy boasts all-weather capability thanks to standard AWD (emotional appeal). Its known for reliability and safety (practical). The ride is comfortable, and the interior is well-designed. Fuel efficiency is respectable for an AWD vehicle, offering good value for money. The available turbocharged engine provides decent performance.
The Bad
The 2021 Subaru Legacy's base engine can feel underpowered for some drivers. The CVT transmission, while efficient, may not appeal to enthusiasts. Some may find the styling conservative. The infotainment system, while improved, can still be slow to respond at times. Watch out for potential oil consumption issues reported in some Subaru models.
2021 Subaru Legacy: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder: Standard on Base, Premium, Sport, and Limited trims.
- 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder: Standard on Limited XT and Touring XT trims.
- Horsepower:
- 2.5-liter: 182 horsepower.
- 2.4-liter turbo: 260 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.5-liter: 27 mpg city / 35 mpg highway.
- 2.4-liter turbo: 24 mpg city / 32 mpg highway.
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.5-liter: Around 8.4 seconds.
- 2.4-liter turbo: 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 integration.
- Premium: 11.6-inch touchscreen, heated front seats, power driver's seat, Wi-Fi hotspot.
- Sport: Sport-tuned suspension, unique exterior trim, keyless access with push-button start.
- Limited: Leather upholstery, Harman Kardon audio system, blind-spot detection with lane change assist.
- Limited XT: 2.4-liter turbo engine, power moonroof, heated steering wheel.
- Touring XT: Nappa leather upholstery, navigation system, driver monitoring system, heated and ventilated front seats.
2021 Subaru Legacy Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2021 |
| 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) | $22,895 |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2021 Subaru Legacy Have?
There have been reports of excessive oil consumption in some Subaru models with similar engines, although this isn't as widespread in the 2021 Legacy as it was in earlier models. It's something to be aware of and monitor.
Check for any recalls related to the vehicle's VIN on the NHTSA website. Recalls can address potential safety issues or component failures. Long-term reliability concerns are relatively minimal, but proper maintenance is crucial. Regular oil changes and adherence to the recommended service schedule can help prevent potential problems. Some owners have reported minor electrical issues, but these are typically not major concerns. Overall, the 2021 Legacy holds a good reputation for reliability compared to some of its competitors, provided it's properly maintained.
How long will the 2021 Subaru Legacy last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Available optional features include blind-spot detection with lane change assist, rear cross-traffic alert, reverse automatic braking, and a driver monitoring system. The Limited and Touring XT trims offer a premium Harman Kardon audio system.
The 2021 Legacy received excellent crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). It earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. These ratings reflect Subaru's commitment to safety and make the Legacy a strong choice for safety-conscious buyers. The advanced safety features contribute significantly to its overall appeal.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2021 Subaru Legacy Prices and Market Value
2021 Subaru Legacy Cost of Ownership
2021 Subaru Legacy Fuel Efficiency
2021 Subaru Legacy Safety Rating
NHTSA
2021 Subaru Legacy Warranty
Basic
Corrosion
Drivetrain
Roadside Assistance
2021 Subaru Legacy Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2021 Subaru Legacy Compare to Other Sedan?
The Legacy's interior quality is generally good, but some rivals offer more upscale materials. In terms of price, the Legacy is competitive, especially considering the standard AWD.
Alternatives to consider: If AWD isn't essential, the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord offer similar reliability with potentially better fuel economy. The Hyundai Sonata provides a more stylish design and advanced tech. For a more performance-oriented experience, the Mazda6 (though discontinued) was a strong contender. Ultimately, the Legacy's unique selling point is its standard AWD, making it a strong choice for those who need all-weather capability.
Ranks #417 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★) |
| 417 | 2021 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2021 Subaru Legacy a Good Sedan?
Jose M on June 2, 2021
Reliable, all wheel traction, looks great.The 2021 Legacy is improved comfort riding, leg room, the dashboard is digitalized at greater extend. the Charcoal gray color is awesome, looks very elegant. I like the new wheel design and interior changes that add a luxury look that my 2019 did not have.
Margaret in CT on April 21, 2021
Great car for an older personI am 74 years old and this is the sixth Subaru legacy that I've leased since my husband's death. It provides me a secure ride in bad weather and is a pleasure to drive when the sun shines. I may purchase this one.
Jackie Craine on April 3, 2021
Love my new Subaru LegacyThis car is amazing and wonderful. It looks great and performs exceptionally well in all kinds of conditions. It is also very comfortable. Having driven many types of cars I can say without a doubt that this is my favorite car in my 50 years of driving. I love this car!
Dave Smyth on March 29, 2021
Very first vehicle we have enjoyed.Enjoy all the futures with this vehicle. It meets and beats all of our expectations. Really fun to drive. Can't wait to go on a long drive.
Robert K on February 16, 2021
Very impressed with safety features.Exterior is well designed. First time I drove it, I felt like I had been driving it for years. Like the 11.5 inch info screen. Like having an iPad on your dash board.
LuluJane on January 18, 2021
It's gorgeous and practical!I've owned my new Subaru Legacy for 26 hours and in this short amount of time I've noticed it handles far better than my old one, is quieter, safer, and more comfortable! So far, so fabulous! In the review, I was asked to rate its reliability. I have no idea so rather than bring the rating down by putting 1 star, I gave it 5 stars. But, time will tell how reliable it is. My 2016 was very reliable!
Autumnmoon on December 15, 2020
Best AWD sedan I have driven so far2021 Legacy Limited AWD sedan is by far the best value for my money. The car is solidly built, ride is quiet with excellent handling. With all standard safety features Subaru has been famous for, plus all the technology features came with it, you cannot go wrong with your money. The exterior/interior design looks great, leg/head room is spacious, trunk space is adequate for a mid-size family sedan. Not to mention its reliability and high resale value.
Netizen1751 on November 29, 2020
Beats luxury at every levelBought Legacy Limited trim with navigation. The ride is better than the Acura TL we owned. And smoother than the ES300 I test drove. It is loaded with all the safety features and technology. The giant touchscreen makes it look futuristic. It gets highest safety ratings.
Jerry J on November 2, 2020
Only opened it for two daysIt's brand new. Only been driving it for two days, but so far I really love the car. I got the Touring XT. Very comfortable. Great acceleration with the turbo. All the safety features and convenience features I could want. I love the Napa leather. The premium sound system is great and the infotainment system in general seems fine except for one thing and that's voice recognition. So far it hardly understands any of the commands I give. Hopefully I will get better at giving commands. I know they have to be precise. I do have Android auto connected and communication with that is great. But again so far I love my new car.
JohnnyP on November 1, 2020
The BMW of Asia.This is my 8th Subaru and by far the best of the bunch. The car is stylish, adequately quick, has an amazing ride and all the modern features (you can ride for miles with no hands and feet if you care to, as with a lot of newer vehicles). Add Subaru's best resale value on the market and how goofy SUVs are and you had me at first sight.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.