Fuel efficiency showdown: subaru legacy vs honda cr-v – which suv wins the mpg race?

The Subaru Legacy and Honda CR-V are two popular midsize SUVs that have been competing for market share for years. Both vehicles offer a unique blend of features, performance, and value, making it a difficult choice for potential buyers. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Subaru Legacy and Honda CR-V to help you make an informed decision.

Powertrain and Performance:

The Subaru Legacy is available with a choice of two engines: a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The Honda CR-V, on the other hand, is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that generates 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of performance, the Subaru Legacy with the turbocharged engine provides a noticeably more powerful and responsive driving experience. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 6.1 seconds, while the CR-V takes 8.3 seconds. However, the CR-V’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) offers smoother and more efficient gear changes.

Fuel Efficiency:

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many SUV buyers. The Subaru Legacy with the naturally aspirated engine achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged Legacy drops slightly to 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. The Honda CR-V, with its smaller engine and CVT, has slightly better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.

Interior Space and Comfort:

Both the Subaru Legacy and Honda CR-V offer spacious interiors with ample room for passengers and cargo. The Legacy has a slightly larger trunk space of 19 cubic feet, compared to the CR-V’s 17 cubic feet. However, the CR-V’s rear seats fold down to create a larger cargo area of 68.7 cubic feet, while the Legacy’s rear seats only fold down to create 58.1 cubic feet.

In terms of comfort, both vehicles offer supportive seats with plenty of headroom and legroom. The CR-V has a slightly more upscale interior with higher-quality materials and more advanced features, such as a panoramic sunroof.

Safety Features:

Safety is a top priority for many SUV buyers. The Subaru Legacy and Honda CR-V come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The CR-V also offers additional features such as blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as part of its Honda Sensing suite.

Technology and Connectivity:

Technology and connectivity are increasingly important in modern vehicles. The Subaru Legacy comes standard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The CR-V offers a smaller 7-inch touchscreen, but it comes with standard HondaLink, which provides a wider range of connected services.

Price and Value:

Pricing for the Subaru Legacy starts at $24,995 for the base model, while the Honda CR-V starts at $26,400. Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels with varying features and prices. In terms of value, the Legacy offers a more powerful engine, larger trunk space, and standard all-wheel drive for a slightly lower price. The CR-V, on the other hand, has a more upscale interior, better fuel economy, and more advanced safety features.

Verdict:

Ultimately, the choice between the Subaru Legacy and Honda CR-V depends on individual preferences and needs. If you prioritize performance, space, and value, the Legacy is a great choice. If you’re looking for a more fuel-efficient, comfortable, and feature-rich SUV, the CR-V is a solid option.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Subaru Legacy with the turbocharged engine produces more horsepower and torque than the Honda CR-V.

Q: Which vehicle has better fuel economy?
A: The Honda CR-V has slightly better fuel economy than the Subaru Legacy, especially in the city.

Q: Which vehicle has more interior space?
A: The Subaru Legacy has a slightly larger trunk space, while the Honda CR-V has a larger cargo area with the rear seats folded down.

Q: Which vehicle has more advanced safety features?
A: The Honda CR-V offers more advanced safety features, such as blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, as part of its Honda Sensing suite.

Q: Which vehicle has a better infotainment system?
A: The Subaru Legacy has a larger touchscreen infotainment system, while the Honda CR-V offers more connected services through HondaLink.