Subaru legacy vs toyota camry: the ultimate midsize sedan showdown!

The Subaru Legacy and Toyota Camry are two formidable contenders in the midsize sedan segment. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of comfort, performance, and reliability, catering to a wide range of drivers. However, each car boasts unique strengths and weaknesses that may influence your decision. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of the Subaru Legacy vs. Toyota Camry, helping you make an informed choice that aligns with your preferences and needs.

Performance

Engine and Power

The Subaru Legacy offers a standard 2.4-liter naturally aspirated engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The Toyota Camry, on the other hand, comes with a standard 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine that generates 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. In terms of power output, the Camry holds a slight edge over the Legacy.

Transmission

Both the Legacy and Camry offer a continuously variable transmission (CVT) as standard equipment. CVTs provide a smooth and efficient driving experience, especially in urban environments. However, some drivers may prefer the more engaging feel of a traditional automatic transmission, which is not available in either vehicle.

Fuel Economy

The Subaru Legacy returns an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The Toyota Camry offers marginally better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. The Camry’s superior fuel efficiency may be a significant factor for drivers who prioritize low operating costs.

Handling and Driving Dynamics

Chassis and Suspension

The Subaru Legacy features a unibody chassis with a fully independent suspension system. This setup provides a comfortable ride and agile handling, making the Legacy a pleasure to drive on both paved roads and rough terrain.

The Toyota Camry also utilizes a unibody chassis, but it employs a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension. This combination offers a balance between comfort and handling, making the Camry suitable for a wide range of driving conditions.

Steering and Braking

Both the Legacy and Camry offer responsive steering systems that provide good feedback and control. The Legacy’s steering is slightly heavier, which may be preferred by drivers who enjoy a more connected driving experience. Both vehicles feature standard four-wheel disc brakes with electronic stability control, ensuring ample stopping power.

Interior and Comfort

Cabin Space and Design

The Subaru Legacy offers a spacious cabin with ample legroom and headroom for all passengers. The interior design is functional and well-organized, with intuitive controls and comfortable seating.

The Toyota Camry also provides a roomy interior, but it may feel slightly more cramped than the Legacy in terms of rear legroom. The Camry’s interior features a more refined design with premium materials and a focus on comfort.

Features and Technology

Both the Legacy and Camry come well-equipped with a range of standard features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. The Legacy offers a larger 11.6-inch touchscreen, while the Camry’s 9-inch display is more compact.

In terms of advanced safety features, the Camry has a slight edge over the Legacy. The Camry comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Legacy offers similar features, but they are available as optional extras.

Safety and Reliability

Crash Test Ratings

Both the Subaru Legacy and Toyota Camry have received top ratings in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). This demonstrates their commitment to occupant safety.

Reliability and Maintenance

Subaru and Toyota are both renowned for their reliability. The Legacy and Camry have consistently ranked highly in reliability surveys, indicating that they are likely to provide years of trouble-free ownership. Maintenance costs for both vehicles are comparable, with the Legacy requiring slightly more frequent oil changes due to its turbocharged engine.

Pricing and Value

Base Prices

The Subaru Legacy has a starting price of $23,945, while the Toyota Camry starts at $24,970. The Legacy’s lower base price may appeal to budget-conscious buyers.

Trim Levels and Options

Both the Legacy and Camry offer a range of trim levels with varying features and options. The Legacy’s top-of-the-line Touring XT trim starts at $36,745, while the Camry’s top-of-the-line XSE V6 trim starts at $36,295. The Camry offers a wider selection of trim levels and options, including a hybrid powertrain and all-wheel drive.

Resale Value

Toyota vehicles typically hold their value better than Subaru vehicles. This means that the Camry is likely to have a higher resale value than the Legacy after several years of ownership.

Key Points: Making the Right Choice for Your Needs

The Subaru Legacy and Toyota Camry are both excellent midsize sedans that offer a compelling combination of performance, comfort, and reliability. The Legacy stands out with its standard all-wheel drive, which provides superior traction in inclement weather and off-road conditions. The Camry, on the other hand, offers better fuel economy and a more refined interior.

Ultimately, the best choice between the Subaru Legacy vs. Toyota Camry depends on your individual priorities and needs. If you value all-weather capability and a spacious cabin, the Legacy is an excellent choice. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, a luxurious interior, and a strong resale value, the Camry is a more suitable option.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Which car has a more powerful engine?

A: The Toyota Camry has a slightly more powerful engine than the Subaru Legacy.

Q: Is the Subaru Legacy more fuel-efficient than the Toyota Camry?

A: No, the Toyota Camry offers better fuel economy than the Subaru Legacy.

Q: Which car has a larger interior?

A: The Subaru Legacy offers a more spacious interior than the Toyota Camry, especially in terms of rear legroom.

Q: Is the Toyota Camry more reliable than the Subaru Legacy?

A: Both the Subaru Legacy and Toyota Camry are highly reliable vehicles, but the Camry has a slightly better reputation for reliability.

Q: Which car has a higher resale value?

A: The Toyota Camry typically holds its value better than the Subaru Legacy.