Style vs substance: mazda atenza vs subaru legacy’s aesthetic battle
What To Know
- The Mazda Atenza has a slight edge in fuel economy, offering up to 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
- Both the Mazda Atenza and Subaru Legacy offer comfortable interiors, but the Atenza has a slight edge with its premium materials and ergonomic design.
- The Mazda Atenza has a slight advantage in fuel economy, offering up to 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
The battle for supremacy in the midsize sedan segment continues to rage between two formidable Japanese automakers: Mazda and Subaru. The Mazda Atenza and Subaru Legacy stand as two prime contenders, each offering unique strengths and characteristics. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of these two exceptional vehicles, exploring their performance, design, features, and overall value proposition.
Performance
Engine and Powertrain
The Mazda Atenza boasts a refined 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine that delivers 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission that provides responsive and efficient power delivery.
The Subaru Legacy, on the other hand, comes with a 2.5-liter boxer engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. It’s available with either a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a more engaging six-speed manual transmission.
Both vehicles offer all-wheel drive as standard, providing exceptional grip and handling in all conditions.
Fuel Economy
The Mazda Atenza has a slight edge in fuel economy, offering up to 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. The Subaru Legacy, with its CVT transmission, achieves 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
Design
Exterior Styling
The Mazda Atenza exudes a sleek and sophisticated design with its flowing lines and elegant curves. Its signature Kodo design language creates a visually striking and dynamic presence on the road.
The Subaru Legacy adopts a more rugged and utilitarian approach with its angular lines and prominent grille. It conveys a sense of adventure and capability, particularly in its Outback variant.
Interior Design
Inside, the Mazda Atenza impresses with its premium materials and ergonomic layout. The cabin is spacious and well-appointed, with a focus on comfort and convenience.
The Subaru Legacy‘s interior is equally spacious and practical, offering a comfortable and functional environment. Its large touchscreen infotainment system is a notable highlight.
Features
Infotainment and Connectivity
Both the Mazda Atenza and Subaru Legacy come equipped with state-of-the-art infotainment systems. The Mazda Atenza features a 10.25-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Subaru Legacy offers an 11.6-inch touchscreen with similar connectivity options.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for both Mazda and Subaru. The Atenza comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
The Legacy also boasts a comprehensive safety package, including adaptive cruise control, lane centering assist, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Value Proposition
Pricing
The Mazda Atenza starts at $24,500, while the Subaru Legacy has a slightly lower starting price of $23,945. However, the Atenza offers a more premium experience and a more powerful engine.
Warranty
Both vehicles come with competitive warranties: 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Which is Right for You?
The Mazda Atenza is an ideal choice for drivers seeking a sleek, refined, and performance-oriented sedan. Its premium interior, responsive handling, and impressive fuel economy make it a compelling option.
The Subaru Legacy is better suited for those who prioritize adventure, practicality, and all-weather capability. Its rugged styling, spacious interior, and advanced safety features make it an excellent choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Beyond the Comparison
Mazda Atenza:
- Offers a more powerful engine than the Legacy
- Features a more premium interior with high-quality materials
- Delivers slightly better fuel economy
Subaru Legacy:
- Has a more rugged and utilitarian exterior design
- Offers a more spacious interior with ample cargo space
- Comes with a wider range of safety and driver-assist features
Final Note
The Mazda Atenza and Subaru Legacy represent two distinct approaches to midsize sedan excellence. The Atenza excels with its refined performance, sophisticated design, and premium features, while the Legacy impresses with its ruggedness, practicality, and comprehensive safety package. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual preferences and priorities.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Which vehicle has a more comfortable interior?
A: Both the Mazda Atenza and Subaru Legacy offer comfortable interiors, but the Atenza has a slight edge with its premium materials and ergonomic design.
Q: Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Mazda Atenza has a slight advantage in fuel economy, offering up to 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which vehicle offers a more engaging driving experience?
A: The Mazda Atenza provides a more responsive and performance-oriented driving experience, while the Subaru Legacy excels in all-weather capability and off-road adventures.