Subaru’s legacy vs. toyota’s camry: the ultimate awd showdown

When it comes to all-wheel drive (AWD) sedans, the Subaru Legacy and Toyota Camry stand out as two of the most popular choices. Both vehicles offer a combination of performance, practicality, and safety, making them ideal for drivers who need a reliable and capable all-season vehicle. But how do these two AWD sedans compare? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Subaru Legacy vs. Camry AWD, helping you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Performance

Engine and Power:
The Subaru Legacy AWD is powered by a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The Toyota Camry AWD, on the other hand, is equipped with a 2.5-liter inline-four engine that delivers 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. While the Camry has a slight edge in horsepower, the Legacy’s boxer engine design provides a lower center of gravity and improved handling.

Transmission:
Both the Subaru Legacy and Toyota Camry AWD come standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). CVTs provide smooth and efficient shifting, maximizing fuel economy and drivability.

Fuel Economy:
The Subaru Legacy AWD has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the Toyota Camry AWD is slightly more fuel-efficient, with an EPA rating of 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.

Handling and Safety

AWD System:
The Subaru Legacy AWD features the company’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which distributes power evenly between the front and rear wheels for optimal traction and stability in all driving conditions. The Toyota Camry AWD, on the other hand, uses an on-demand AWD system that only engages the rear wheels when necessary, improving fuel economy.

Suspension:
The Subaru Legacy AWD has a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and responsive handling. The Toyota Camry AWD utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, which offers a more refined ride quality.

Safety Features:
Both the Subaru Legacy and Toyota Camry AWD come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. However, the Legacy offers a few additional features, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Interior and Comfort

Passenger Space:
The Subaru Legacy AWD provides ample passenger space for both front and rear occupants. The Toyota Camry AWD offers slightly more legroom in the front and rear seats, making it a more comfortable choice for taller passengers.

Cargo Capacity:
The Subaru Legacy AWD has a cargo capacity of 15.1 cubic feet, while the Toyota Camry AWD offers slightly more cargo space at 15.1 cubic feet.

Interior Features:
Both the Legacy and Camry AWD offer a range of interior features, including heated seats, a sunroof, and a premium sound system. However, the Legacy offers a more modern and spacious interior design.

Technology

Infotainment System:
The Subaru Legacy AWD features a STARLINK infotainment system with a 11.6-inch touchscreen, while the Toyota Camry AWD has an Entune 3.0 infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen. Both systems offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Navigation:
The Subaru Legacy AWD offers available navigation, while the Toyota Camry AWD includes it as standard equipment.

Driver Assistance Features:
The Subaru Legacy AWD offers a wider range of driver assistance features than the Toyota Camry AWD, including lane centering assist, traffic sign recognition, and adaptive headlights.

Price and Value

The Subaru Legacy AWD has a starting price of $23,995, while the Toyota Camry AWD starts at $25,295. While the Camry is slightly more expensive, it offers a more fuel-efficient engine and a more spacious interior. However, the Legacy offers a more advanced AWD system and a more comprehensive suite of driver assistance features.

Which One is Right for You?

The Subaru Legacy AWD is an excellent choice for drivers who prioritize performance, safety, and all-weather capability. The Toyota Camry AWD, on the other hand, is a more comfortable and fuel-efficient option for those who value interior space and technology.

Final Verdict

Both the Subaru Legacy AWD and Toyota Camry AWD are highly capable and reliable sedans. However, the Legacy offers a more engaging driving experience, a more advanced AWD system, and a more comprehensive suite of safety features. The Camry, on the other hand, provides a more comfortable and spacious interior, a more fuel-efficient engine, and a more affordable price point. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.

What You Need to Know

Q: Which car has a better AWD system?
A: The Subaru Legacy AWD features a more advanced Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system that provides superior traction and stability in all driving conditions.

Q: Which car is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Toyota Camry AWD has a slightly better fuel economy than the Subaru Legacy AWD, with an EPA rating of 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which car has more cargo space?
A: The Toyota Camry AWD offers slightly more cargo space than the Subaru Legacy AWD, with 15.1 cubic feet of cargo capacity.

Q: Which car is more spacious inside?
A: The Toyota Camry AWD has slightly more passenger space than the Subaru Legacy AWD, especially in the rear seats.

Q: Which car has a better infotainment system?
A: The Subaru Legacy AWD has a larger infotainment screen and offers more driver assistance features than the Toyota Camry AWD.