Awd battleground: ford fusion awd vs subaru legacy – which conquers all road conditions?

The Ford Fusion AWD and Subaru Legacy are two popular midsize sedans that offer all-wheel drive for enhanced traction and stability in all weather conditions. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive into the key differences between these two AWD sedans, covering their performance, fuel efficiency, interior features, and more.

Performance

Both the Ford Fusion AWD and Subaru Legacy come standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. However, the Fusion produces slightly more horsepower and torque than the Legacy, with 181 hp and 185 lb-ft compared to 182 hp and 176 lb-ft. This gives the Fusion a slight edge in acceleration, going from 0-60 mph in 8.4 seconds compared to 8.7 seconds for the Legacy.

When it comes to handling, the Subaru Legacy has a slight advantage. Its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and lower center of gravity provide more responsive and confident handling, especially in corners. The Fusion’s AWD system is also capable, but it doesn’t quite match the Legacy’s agility.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel economy is an important consideration for many drivers, and both the Ford Fusion AWD and Subaru Legacy offer respectable MPG ratings. The Fusion AWD gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while the Legacy AWD gets 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.

The Legacy’s slightly better fuel economy is likely due to its smaller engine and more efficient CVT transmission. However, the Fusion’s larger engine provides more power and torque, which may be worth the trade-off for some drivers.

Interior Features

Both the Fusion and Legacy offer spacious and comfortable interiors. The Fusion has a more modern design with a sleek dashboard and a large touchscreen infotainment system. The Legacy’s interior is more traditional but still well-equipped, with a user-friendly infotainment system and plenty of storage space.

When it comes to technology, the Fusion has a slight edge. It offers a wider range of available features, including a premium sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and adaptive cruise control. The Legacy, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive suite of safety features, including EyeSight Driver Assist Technology and blind-spot monitoring.

Safety

Both the Ford Fusion AWD and Subaru Legacy have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Fusion earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, while the Legacy earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS.

Both vehicles come standard with a variety of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. The Fusion also offers a lane departure warning system and a forward collision warning system, while the Legacy offers adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist.

Price

The Ford Fusion AWD has a starting price of $24,860, while the Subaru Legacy AWD starts at $24,995. Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels, with the top-of-the-line Fusion Platinum AWD costing $36,090 and the top-of-the-line Legacy Touring XT AWD costing $36,995.

Which One Is Right for You?

The Ford Fusion AWD and Subaru Legacy are both excellent choices for drivers who want a midsize sedan with all-wheel drive. The Fusion offers more power and a more modern interior, while the Legacy has better fuel economy and more agile handling. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

The Verdict: A Close Race

The Ford Fusion AWD and Subaru Legacy are both strong contenders in the midsize AWD sedan segment. The Fusion offers more power and a more modern interior, while the Legacy has better fuel economy and more agile handling. Both vehicles offer a high level of safety and a competitive price.

If you prioritize power and a modern interior, the Ford Fusion AWD is a great choice. If you prioritize fuel economy and agile handling, the Subaru Legacy is a better option. Whichever vehicle you choose, you’re sure to get a reliable and capable all-wheel-drive sedan that will meet your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which vehicle has a better warranty?
A: Both the Fusion and Legacy offer a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Q: Which vehicle has a larger trunk?
A: The Fusion has a larger trunk than the Legacy, with 16 cubic feet of cargo space compared to 15 cubic feet.

Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Fusion has a slightly more powerful engine than the Legacy, with 181 hp compared to 182 hp.