2022 Subaru Legacy | Review & Road Test
Kelley Blue Book Kelley Blue Book
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 Published On Jan 17, 2022

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This is the 7th-generation Subaru Legacy. It comes with all-wheel drive standard, and it is a midsize sedan. See sedans do still exist. But is all-weather traction enough to justify buying this versus, let’s say, a Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, or Hyundai Sonata. Let’s dig in.


Starting off, Subaru has done a nice job inside keeping noise at bay. In most spots, the materials convey a sense of quality, and the general arrangement looks handsome. I also like the little passenger side storage slot carved into the dash plus another nook next to the front passenger’s left leg.

One wish though, it’d be nice if these rear vents weren’t reserved for the premium trim and higher.

In terms of occupant space, the Legacy excels. Sure I, a completely average 5’ 10” American dude, fit fine in front but how do I fit in back?


As for cargo space, the Legacy provides 15.1 cu-ft (text 15.1 cu-ft); a respectable number among midsize sedans. There are also conveniently located rear seat releases and a wide passthrough to the cabin if you’re lugging bulky gear.

If your rugged active lifestyle demands even more room, consider the Subaru Outback. It delivers a very Legacy-like experience but in a wagon form factor that affords a big bump for cargo haulin’. (32.5 cu-ft)

Of course, the centerpiece for any modern vehicle is the infotainment display. Dual 7-inch screens come standard on the base trim, but all other versions include this 11.6-inch screen.

Not only does it control navigation and entertainment, but the 11.6-inch screen is also where you’ll manage HVAC controls.

The layout is smartly arranged with clear icons. Deep menu structures make some infotainment displays a distraction while driving…this isn’t one of them.

Moving outside, I’m not one to tell you how to think about a car’s exterior styling.

For normal daily driving the suspension does a stellar job delivering a comfortable ride. But just for fun, how bout I drive through that corner too quickly?

I’ll also note that while all-wheel drive provides invaluable traction in slippery conditions, it also helps you rocket out of corners even in dry conditions. Overall, there is a lot to like about driving the Subaru Legacy.

In the case of the Legacy, provided you’re driving at modest speeds, the CVT feels fine.

Subaru has worked to make their CVT drive like a normal automatic but astute drivers might notice occasional peculiarities.
What I would say is that every technology has its quirks. Try before you buy.


Most Legacy trims feature a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (182-hp, 176 lb-ft). Our test car has that engine, and it feels acceptably eager for the category. For more intense accelerative thrills the XT Limited and XT Touring trims offer up a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine (260-hp, 277 lb-ft).

Both engines utilize a horizontally opposed layout, which helps lower the Legacy’s center of gravity, a good thing in any vehicle. Each engine is also teamed with a CVT. Yes, that’s your only transmission choice.

Comprising their suite are full-speed adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

The Legacy can also detect when the rear seats are occupied, emitting a chime if the seatbelt isn’t fastened.

One area of unambiguous praise is price. The base Legacy’s MSRP lands right about $23-grand not including destination charges. That price scores you Apple CarPlay & Android auto smartphone connectivity, all-wheel drive as frequently mentioned, and adaptive LED lighting, which is a cool surprise at that price.

Compared to the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Kia K5 and Hyundai Sonata, the Subaru Legacy’s entry price is lower…in some cases by thousands of dollars; a doubly surprising fact, considering the Legacy is the only midsize sedan to offer standard all-wheel drive. Incidentally, you can also get all-wheel drive in the Altima, Camry, and K5, but it’ll cost you extra.

The Legacy’s value is further bolstered by Subaru’s traditionally strong resale values.

If you want a bit more indulgence in your Legacy, higher trims add things like heated seats, smart key access, and leather. Spring for the highest Touring XT trim and those front seats are heated and ventilated units clad in Nappa leather. Swanky.


Despite the dominance of SUVs, the midsize sedan category is still rich with choices. There are certainly more emotive choices…

But the Legacy has strong safety, similarly strong value, and mostly satisfying road manners on its side. All of that makes it worth a look. (long pause) Also, it has all-wheel drive.

00:00 2022 Subaru Legacy
0:16 Competitors
0:20 Interior
2:49 Exterior
3:00 Driving Impressions
4:30 Engine Options

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