Hey guys! Thinking about snagging a 2021 Subaru Legacy? It's a solid choice, but like any car, it's got its ups and downs. Let's dive into the nitty-gritty so you can make an informed decision. We'll break down the pros and cons of this popular sedan, covering everything from its safety features and reliability to its performance and interior comfort. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear picture of whether the 2021 Subaru Legacy is the right car for you.

Pros of the 2021 Subaru Legacy

Let's kick things off with the good stuff. The 2021 Subaru Legacy has a lot to offer, making it a compelling option in the mid-size sedan market. One of the most significant advantages is its standard all-wheel drive (AWD), a feature that sets it apart from many of its competitors. This is a huge plus if you live in an area with inclement weather, like snow or heavy rain, as it provides enhanced traction and stability. The symmetrical AWD system ensures that power is distributed evenly to all four wheels, improving handling and control in slippery conditions. Beyond just bad weather, the AWD system also gives the Legacy a more planted and confident feel on dry pavement, especially during cornering. This makes it a great choice for drivers who prioritize safety and stability.

Beyond its all-wheel-drive prowess, the 2021 Legacy boasts a comfortable and spacious interior. Subaru has really stepped up its game in recent years, and the Legacy's cabin reflects that. The seats are well-cushioned and supportive, making it a great car for long road trips. Rear-seat passengers will appreciate the generous legroom, which is more than adequate for adults. The materials used throughout the cabin are of decent quality, giving the Legacy a more upscale feel than some of its rivals. Plus, the intuitive infotainment system is easy to use, with a large touchscreen display that responds quickly to inputs. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are standard, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's system. Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology is another major highlight, offering a suite of advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features can help prevent accidents and make driving safer and less stressful. Finally, the 2021 Legacy has a reputation for reliability, which can save you money on maintenance and repairs in the long run. Subaru's commitment to quality and durability is evident in the Legacy's solid construction and dependable performance. All these pros combine to make the 2021 Legacy a very attractive choice for those looking for a safe, comfortable, and reliable mid-size sedan.

Cons of the 2021 Subaru Legacy

Okay, now for the not-so-good stuff. While the 2021 Subaru Legacy has a lot going for it, it's not without its drawbacks. One of the main criticisms is its somewhat underwhelming base engine. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides adequate power for daily driving, but it can feel a bit sluggish when accelerating or passing on the highway. If you're looking for a more spirited driving experience, you might want to consider the optional turbocharged engine, which offers significantly more power. However, the turbo engine is only available on higher trim levels, which means you'll have to pay more to get it.

Another potential con is the Legacy's relatively bland styling. While Subaru has made some improvements in recent years, the Legacy's exterior design is still quite conservative and doesn't really stand out from the crowd. If you're looking for a car that turns heads, the Legacy might not be the best choice. Some drivers have also complained about the continuously variable transmission (CVT), which can sometimes feel a bit unresponsive or drone-like, especially during hard acceleration. While Subaru has made efforts to improve the CVT's performance, it's still not as engaging as a traditional automatic transmission. Additionally, while the Legacy's interior is generally comfortable, some of the materials used could be of higher quality. The plastics on the dashboard and door panels can feel a bit cheap, which detracts from the overall premium feel. Finally, the Legacy's fuel economy is decent, but not class-leading. While it's not terrible, some of its competitors offer better gas mileage. It’s worth keeping these cons in mind when evaluating whether the 2021 Subaru Legacy is the right car for you.

Performance and Handling

Let's dig deeper into the performance and handling aspects of the 2021 Subaru Legacy. As mentioned earlier, the base 2.5-liter engine delivers 182 horsepower, which is sufficient for most daily driving scenarios. However, it can feel a bit strained when you need to accelerate quickly, such as when merging onto a busy highway or passing another car. The CVT, while smooth in most situations, can sometimes exhibit a rubber-band-like feel, where the engine revs up but the car doesn't accelerate immediately. This can be a bit disconcerting, especially if you're used to a traditional automatic transmission. However, the CVT does help to improve fuel economy, which is a trade-off that some drivers may be willing to make. On the bright side, the Legacy's standard all-wheel drive provides excellent traction and stability, making it a confident and capable performer in all kinds of weather conditions. The AWD system also helps to improve handling, giving the Legacy a more planted and secure feel on the road. The steering is precise and responsive, and the suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections. Overall, the Legacy offers a comfortable and composed ride, making it a great choice for long road trips.

For those seeking more excitement, the optional 2.4-liter turbocharged engine is the way to go. This engine cranks out 260 horsepower, providing a significant boost in acceleration and overall performance. The turbo engine transforms the Legacy into a much more engaging and fun-to-drive car. It also pairs well with the CVT, which feels more responsive and less prone to the rubber-band effect when paired with the more powerful engine. The turbocharged Legacy is a great choice for drivers who want a sporty and capable sedan that can handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures. Whether you opt for the base engine or the turbo, the 2021 Subaru Legacy offers a well-rounded driving experience that prioritizes comfort, stability, and safety.

Interior and Technology

Moving inside, the 2021 Subaru Legacy offers a spacious and well-equipped cabin. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample cushioning for long drives. The rear seats offer plenty of legroom, making it a great choice for families or anyone who frequently carries passengers. The materials used throughout the cabin are of decent quality, although some of the plastics could be a bit nicer. The overall design is clean and functional, with a focus on usability. The infotainment system is one of the Legacy's highlights, featuring a large touchscreen display that is easy to use and responsive. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are standard, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's system. The system also includes a variety of other features, such as navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and satellite radio. The 2021 Legacy also comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features can help to prevent accidents and make driving safer and less stressful.

Other available technology features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic braking. These features can further enhance safety and provide added peace of mind. The 2021 Legacy also offers a premium audio system, which delivers excellent sound quality. Overall, the Legacy's interior is a comfortable and well-equipped space that is designed to enhance the driving experience. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, the Legacy's interior provides a comfortable and convenient environment. The combination of comfortable seats, user-friendly technology, and advanced safety features makes the 2021 Subaru Legacy a standout in its class.

Reliability and Safety

When it comes to reliability and safety, the 2021 Subaru Legacy excels. Subaru has a strong reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the Legacy is no exception. The Legacy has consistently earned high marks in reliability surveys, indicating that it is a dependable and long-lasting car. This can save you money on maintenance and repairs in the long run, as you're less likely to experience unexpected breakdowns or costly repairs. Subaru's commitment to quality and durability is evident in the Legacy's solid construction and dependable performance. In terms of safety, the 2021 Legacy has earned excellent ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The Legacy has received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, which is the highest possible rating. It has also been named an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, which is the organization's highest honor. These ratings reflect the Legacy's strong performance in crash tests and its advanced safety features. As mentioned earlier, the Legacy comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features can help to prevent accidents and make driving safer and less stressful. Other available safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic braking. All of these features combine to make the 2021 Subaru Legacy one of the safest cars in its class. If safety and reliability are high on your priority list, the Legacy is an excellent choice.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the 2021 Subaru Legacy? Overall, it's a solid mid-size sedan with a lot to offer. Its standard all-wheel drive is a major selling point, especially for those who live in areas with inclement weather. The interior is comfortable and spacious, and the available technology features are impressive. While the base engine can feel a bit underpowered, the optional turbocharged engine provides a significant boost in performance. The Legacy also boasts excellent safety ratings and a strong reputation for reliability.

Ultimately, whether or not the 2021 Subaru Legacy is the right car for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize safety, reliability, and all-wheel drive, the Legacy is definitely worth considering. However, if you're looking for a car with sporty styling or a more engaging driving experience, you might want to explore other options. Be sure to test drive the Legacy and compare it to other mid-size sedans before making your final decision. Consider your budget, driving needs, and personal preferences to make the best choice for you. Good luck with your car shopping!