Battle of the sedans: subaru legacy vs vw passat – which reigns supreme?
What To Know
- The Legacy’s base engine achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the Passat’s base engine delivers 23 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
- However, the Passat’s more powerful turbocharged engine offers a surprising level of efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
- The Legacy has earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The automotive landscape is brimming with options, but when it comes to midsize sedans, the Subaru Legacy and Volkswagen Passat stand out as formidable contenders. Both models have earned acclaim for their reliability, performance, and comfort. However, discerning drivers often find themselves grappling with the question: which one is the better choice? This comprehensive comparison will delve into every aspect of the Subaru Legacy vs VW Passat, providing you with the insights necessary to make an informed decision.
Performance: A Balancing Act of Power and Efficiency
The Subaru Legacy and VW Passat offer distinct powertrain options, each catering to different driving preferences. The Legacy comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. While adequate for everyday driving, some may find it lacking in spirited acceleration. The Passat, on the other hand, offers a wider range of engine choices, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 276 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for brisk acceleration and effortless highway cruising.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Subaru Legacy holds a slight edge over the VW Passat. The Legacy’s base engine achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the Passat’s base engine delivers 23 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. However, the Passat’s more powerful turbocharged engine offers a surprising level of efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
Handling: Precision vs Comfort
The Subaru Legacy and VW Passat offer contrasting driving experiences when it comes to handling. The Legacy is known for its precise steering and agile handling, making it a joy to navigate through winding roads. Its all-wheel drive system further enhances its stability and grip, especially in inclement weather conditions. The Passat, on the other hand, prioritizes comfort and stability over outright sportiness. Its steering is less responsive, and it tends to lean more in corners. However, it excels in providing a plush and composed ride, making it an ideal choice for long-distance journeys.
Interior: Space, Comfort, and Technology
Both the Subaru Legacy and VW Passat offer spacious and comfortable interiors. The Legacy boasts a generous amount of headroom and legroom in both the front and rear seats. Its seats are well-cushioned and provide excellent support. The Passat, while slightly less spacious than the Legacy, still offers ample room for passengers. Its seats are equally comfortable and feature a wider range of adjustments.
In terms of technology, the Subaru Legacy and VW Passat are well-equipped with the latest features. The Legacy comes standard with an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. The Passat offers a similar 10.3-inch touchscreen system with the same smartphone integration options. Both systems are user-friendly and intuitive to operate.
Safety: A Top Priority for Both
Safety is paramount for both the Subaru Legacy and VW Passat. The Legacy has earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Passat has also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.
Both models come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. The Legacy offers the added benefit of EyeSight, Subaru’s advanced driver assistance system that provides a wider range of safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Reliability and Resale Value: A Long-Term Perspective
When it comes to reliability, both the Subaru Legacy and VW Passat have a solid track record. The Legacy has consistently ranked among the most reliable midsize sedans by J.D. Power and Associates. The Passat, while not as highly ranked as the Legacy, still enjoys a good reputation for reliability.
In terms of resale value, the Subaru Legacy tends to hold its value better than the VW Passat. According to Kelley Blue Book, the Legacy has a higher projected resale value after three years of ownership than the Passat. This is likely due to Subaru’s reputation for building durable and long-lasting vehicles.
Which One is Right for You?
The Subaru Legacy and VW Passat are both excellent choices for discerning drivers seeking a midsize sedan. The Legacy offers a more engaging driving experience, better fuel efficiency, and a more spacious interior, while the Passat prioritizes comfort, technology, and a powerful turbocharged engine.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize handling, fuel efficiency, and space, the Subaru Legacy is the better option. If you value comfort, technology, and a powerful engine, the VW Passat is the wiser choice.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Additional Features
Standard Features:
- Subaru Legacy: 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, automatic climate control, 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, EyeSight driver assistance system
- VW Passat: 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control
Optional Features:
- Subaru Legacy: 19-inch alloy wheels, sunroof, leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, Harman Kardon premium audio system, navigation system
- VW Passat: 19-inch alloy wheels, sunroof, leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, Fender premium audio system, navigation system, adaptive headlights
Safety Features:
- Subaru Legacy: Automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert
- VW Passat: Automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, pedestrian detection
Interior Dimensions:
- Subaru Legacy: Headroom: 38.9 inches (front), 38.1 inches (rear); Legroom: 42.5 inches (front), 39.4 inches (rear)
- VW Passat: Headroom: 37.8 inches (front), 38.1 inches (rear); Legroom: 42.5 inches (front), 39.1 inches (rear)
Cargo Capacity:
- Subaru Legacy: 15.1 cubic feet
- VW Passat: 15.9 cubic feet
Top Questions Asked
Which car has a better warranty?
Both the Subaru Legacy and VW Passat offer comprehensive warranties. The Legacy comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Passat comes with a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 6-year/72,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Which car has a lower cost of ownership?
According to Edmunds, the Subaru Legacy has a lower cost of ownership over five years than the VW Passat. This is due to its better fuel efficiency and lower maintenance costs.
Which car has a more luxurious interior?
The VW Passat offers a more luxurious interior than the Subaru Legacy. Its materials are higher quality, and its seats are more comfortable. It also offers more features, such as heated and ventilated seats and a panoramic sunroof.