Face-off: subaru legacy’s respectability vs crosstrek’s off-road prowess

The Subaru Legacy and Crosstrek are two of the most popular vehicles in the Subaru lineup. Both offer all-wheel drive and a reputation for reliability, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive guide, we will compare the Subaru Legacy vs Crosstrek in various aspects to help you make an informed decision about which one is the best fit for your needs.

Performance and Capabilities:

Engine and Powertrain:

• Legacy: Offers a range of engine options, including a 2.5L 4-cylinder and a 3.6L 6-cylinder, with horsepower ranging from 182 to 260.
• Crosstrek: Available with a single 2.5L 4-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower.

Fuel Economy:

• Legacy: Delivers an EPA-estimated 27 mpg city / 35 mpg highway for the base engine.
• Crosstrek: Offers slightly better fuel economy with 28 mpg city / 34 mpg highway.

Off-Road Performance:

• Crosstrek: Designed with a higher ground clearance and X-Mode for improved off-road capabilities.
• Legacy: Not as well-suited for off-road adventures, but still offers all-wheel drive for enhanced traction.

Interior and Comfort:

Passenger and Cargo Space:

• Legacy: Offers more spacious seating and cargo capacity, with a larger trunk and more legroom.
• Crosstrek: Provides less interior space but compensates with a more versatile cargo area.

Interior Features:

• Legacy: Comes with a more premium interior, featuring leather seats, heated front seats, and a larger touchscreen infotainment system.
• Crosstrek: Offers a more rugged interior with water-resistant seats and a smaller touchscreen display.

Safety and Reliability:

Safety Features:

• Both vehicles come standard with Subaru’s EyeSight suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
• Legacy: Offers additional safety features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Reliability:

• Both the Legacy and Crosstrek have consistently ranked highly in reliability surveys, earning top marks from organizations like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.

Technology and Connectivity:

Infotainment Systems:

• Legacy: Features a larger touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
• Crosstrek: Comes with a smaller touchscreen display but offers similar connectivity features.

Navigation and Audio:

• Legacy: Offers an optional navigation system and a premium Harman Kardon audio system.
• Crosstrek: Provides a basic navigation system and a standard audio system.

Price and Value:

Starting Prices:

• Legacy: Ranges from $24,495 for the base model to $37,495 for the top-of-the-line trim.
• Crosstrek: Priced slightly lower, starting at $23,645 and going up to $37,195 for the highest trim level.

Value Proposition:

• Legacy: Offers a more spacious and luxurious interior, along with additional safety features, for a higher price.
• Crosstrek: Provides a more rugged and versatile package with off-road capabilities at a more affordable price.

Which Vehicle is Right for You?

The Subaru Legacy is a great choice for those who prioritize space, comfort, and premium features. It’s an excellent daily driver and offers a comfortable ride for long journeys.

The Subaru Crosstrek is ideal for adventure-seekers who want a vehicle that can handle both on-road and off-road conditions. Its smaller size and higher ground clearance make it more nimble and capable in challenging terrain.

The Verdict:

Both the Subaru Legacy and Crosstrek are excellent vehicles with distinct strengths and weaknesses. The Legacy is the better choice for those who value space, luxury, and safety, while the Crosstrek is ideal for those who prioritize off-road capabilities and affordability. Ultimately, the best vehicle for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Legacy offers a more powerful engine, with up to 260 horsepower compared to the Crosstrek’s 182 horsepower.

Q: Which vehicle gets better fuel economy?
A: The Crosstrek slightly edges out the Legacy in fuel economy, with 28 mpg city / 34 mpg highway compared to the Legacy’s 27 mpg city / 35 mpg highway.

Q: Which vehicle is better for off-road adventures?
A: The Crosstrek is better suited for off-road driving, thanks to its higher ground clearance and X-Mode feature.

Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
A: The Legacy offers more passenger and cargo space than the Crosstrek.

Q: Which vehicle has more advanced safety features?
A: The Legacy offers more advanced safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.