Fuel efficiency showdown: legacy vs. fusion – which sedan wins the mileage war?

In the realm of midsize sedans, the Subaru Legacy and Ford Fusion stand out as formidable contenders. Both offer a captivating blend of performance, technology, and style. This detailed comparison will delve into their key features, strengths, and differences, empowering you to make an informed decision when choosing your next automotive companion.

Performance and Handling

Subaru Legacy: The Legacy boasts a standard 2.5-liter boxer engine that delivers 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. A more potent 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, is available on higher trims. All-wheel drive is standard across the lineup, providing exceptional traction and stability in various conditions. The Legacy offers a smooth and composed ride, with responsive handling that inspires confidence behind the wheel.

Ford Fusion: The Fusion features a range of engine options, including a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine with 175 horsepower and 168 lb-ft of torque. A 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, generating 245 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, is available on select trims. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is optional on certain configurations. The Fusion delivers a comfortable ride and precise handling, making it a capable performer in urban and highway environments.

Fuel Efficiency

Subaru Legacy: The Legacy achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway with the base 2.5-liter engine. The turbocharged engine slightly lowers fuel efficiency to 24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.

Ford Fusion: The Fusion offers marginally better fuel economy with its 2.5-liter engine, achieving an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged engine delivers 21 mpg city and 31 mpg highway.

Technology Features

Subaru Legacy: The Legacy comes well-equipped with an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system. Advanced safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims offer additional amenities such as a panoramic sunroof, heated and cooled seats, and a navigation system.

Ford Fusion: The Fusion features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with SYNC 3 connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. The Fusion also offers a variety of driver-assist technologies, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and evasive steering assist.

Interior and Comfort

Subaru Legacy: The Legacy offers a spacious and comfortable interior with ample headroom and legroom. The seats are supportive and provide good lumbar support. The cabin is well-appointed with high-quality materials and a modern design.

Ford Fusion: The Fusion also features a spacious and well-designed interior. The seats are comfortable and offer adjustable lumbar support. The cabin is well-insulated, providing a quiet and refined driving experience.

Exterior Styling

Subaru Legacy: The Legacy sports a sleek and athletic exterior design. The front fascia features a bold grille with C-shaped LED headlights. The side profile is characterized by sharp character lines and a sloping roofline. The rear end features a distinctive spoiler and LED taillights.

Ford Fusion: The Fusion presents a more sophisticated and upscale exterior design. The front end features a hexagonal grille with sleek LED headlights. The side profile is smooth and streamlined, with a gently sloping roofline. The rear end features a sculpted bumper and LED taillights.

Pricing and Value

Subaru Legacy: The Legacy has a starting price of $23,995 for the base trim. The top-of-the-line Touring XT trim starts at $37,895.

Ford Fusion: The Fusion has a slightly lower starting price of $23,100 for the base trim. The top-of-the-line Platinum trim starts at $36,300.

Which Car is Right for You?

The Subaru Legacy and Ford Fusion are both excellent midsize sedans that offer a compelling combination of performance, technology, and comfort. The Legacy excels in all-wheel drive capability, fuel efficiency, and advanced safety features. The Fusion offers a more refined interior, a wider range of engine options, and a slightly lower starting price. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.

Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Unique Attributes

Subaru Legacy:

• Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: Subaru’s signature all-wheel drive system provides exceptional traction and stability in all weather conditions.
• StarDrive Technology: This advanced driver-assist system offers a suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
• X-Mode: Available on certain trims, X-Mode enhances the Legacy’s off-road capabilities with optimized throttle response and torque distribution.

Ford Fusion:

• Sport Mode: This performance-oriented driving mode sharpens the throttle response, enhances steering feedback, and adjusts the suspension for a more engaging driving experience.
• Adaptive Steering: The Fusion’s adaptive steering system adjusts the steering ratio based on speed, providing optimal handling at low and high speeds.
• SYNC Connect: Ford’s advanced connectivity system offers remote access to vehicle features, such as engine start, door lock/unlock, and vehicle diagnostics.

FAQ

Q: Which car has a more spacious interior?
A: Both the Subaru Legacy and Ford Fusion offer spacious interiors, with the Legacy providing slightly more headroom and legroom.

Q: Which car offers better fuel efficiency?
A: The Subaru Legacy has marginally better fuel efficiency than the Ford Fusion, especially with the base 2.5-liter engine.

Q: Which car is better for off-road driving?
A: The Subaru Legacy, with its standard all-wheel drive and available X-Mode, is better suited for light off-road adventures.

Q: Which car has a more advanced infotainment system?
A: The Subaru Legacy features a larger touchscreen infotainment system and offers a more comprehensive suite of safety features.

Q: Which car is more affordable?
A: The Ford Fusion has a slightly lower starting price than the Subaru Legacy.