Mitsubishi vs. subaru legacy: the ultimate face-off for awd dominance

When it comes to reliable and capable sedans, Mitsubishi and Subaru stand out as two of the most respected names in the automotive industry. The Mitsubishi Lancer and the Subaru Legacy are two of their most popular models, offering a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and value. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences and similarities between the Mitsubishi Lancer and the Subaru Legacy to help you make an informed decision about which sedan best suits your needs.

Performance and Powertrain

Both the Mitsubishi Lancer and the Subaru Legacy offer a range of powertrain options to choose from. The Lancer is available with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. The Legacy, on the other hand, offers a more powerful 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.

While the Lancer’s engine is slightly less powerful, it provides adequate performance for most driving situations. The Legacy’s more potent engine offers better acceleration and passing power, making it a better choice for those who value performance.

Fuel Economy

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many car buyers, especially in today’s high-gas-price environment. The Mitsubishi Lancer has a slight edge over the Subaru Legacy in terms of fuel economy. The Lancer’s 2.0-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The Legacy’s 2.5-liter engine, on the other hand, has an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.

Handling and Driving Dynamics

The Mitsubishi Lancer and the Subaru Legacy offer different driving experiences. The Lancer is known for its agile handling and responsive steering, while the Legacy provides a more comfortable and composed ride.

The Lancer’s suspension system is tuned for sporty driving, providing excellent cornering ability and grip. The Legacy’s suspension, on the other hand, is more softly sprung, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable ride over rough roads.

Interior Space and Comfort

Both the Mitsubishi Lancer and the Subaru Legacy offer spacious and comfortable interiors. The Lancer has a roomy cabin with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The Legacy’s interior is slightly larger, offering even more space for passengers and cargo.

In terms of comfort, the Lancer’s seats are supportive and well-cushioned, providing good lumbar support. The Legacy’s seats are also comfortable, but they offer slightly less side support than the Lancer’s seats.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for both Mitsubishi and Subaru. The Lancer and the Legacy come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and traction control.

The Legacy, however, offers a few additional safety features that the Lancer does not, such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. These features can provide drivers with added peace of mind and help prevent accidents.

Technology and Connectivity

The Mitsubishi Lancer and the Subaru Legacy offer a range of technology and connectivity features to keep drivers connected and entertained. Both models come standard with a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera.

The Legacy, however, offers a more advanced infotainment system with a larger touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a premium audio system. The Legacy also offers a variety of subscription-based services, such as SiriusXM satellite radio and navigation.

Price and Value

The Mitsubishi Lancer and the Subaru Legacy are priced competitively in their respective segments. The Lancer has a starting price of around $19,000, while the Legacy has a starting price of around $23,000.

While the Legacy is slightly more expensive than the Lancer, it offers a more powerful engine, a more spacious interior, and a more comprehensive suite of safety and technology features. Ultimately, the best value for your money will depend on your individual needs and priorities.

In a nutshell: Choosing the Right Sedan for You

The Mitsubishi Lancer and the Subaru Legacy are both excellent choices for those looking for a reliable and capable sedan. The Lancer offers a sporty driving experience, good fuel economy, and a competitive price. The Legacy, on the other hand, offers a more powerful engine, a more spacious interior, and a more comprehensive suite of safety and technology features.

Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and priorities. If you value performance and fuel economy, the Lancer is a great option. If you prioritize space, comfort, and safety, the Legacy is a better choice.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Which car is more powerful, the Lancer or the Legacy?
A: The Subaru Legacy has a more powerful engine than the Mitsubishi Lancer, producing 182 horsepower compared to the Lancer’s 148 horsepower.

Q: Which car has better fuel economy, the Lancer or the Legacy?
A: The Mitsubishi Lancer has slightly better fuel economy than the Subaru Legacy, achieving 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway compared to the Legacy’s 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which car has a more spacious interior, the Lancer or the Legacy?
A: The Subaru Legacy has a more spacious interior than the Mitsubishi Lancer, offering more headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers.

Q: Which car has more advanced safety features, the Lancer or the Legacy?
A: The Subaru Legacy offers a more comprehensive suite of safety features than the Mitsubishi Lancer, including lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring.

Q: Which car has a better infotainment system, the Lancer or the Legacy?
A: The Subaru Legacy offers a more advanced infotainment system than the Mitsubishi Lancer, with a larger touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a premium audio system.