Legacy or xv? comparing subaru’s top crossovers for value and performance
What To Know
- In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Subaru Legacy vs XV to help you make an informed decision about which one suits your needs and preferences.
- The XV achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, compared to the Legacy’s 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
- Both the Subaru Legacy and the XV have received top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
In the realm of automotive excellence, Subaru has carved a niche for itself with its exceptional vehicles that combine practicality, performance, and safety. Two of the brand’s most popular models, the Legacy and the XV, often ignite debates among car enthusiasts and potential buyers. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Subaru Legacy vs XV to help you make an informed decision about which one suits your needs and preferences.
Performance: Power and Efficiency Under the Hood
The Subaru Legacy offers a more powerful engine lineup than the XV. The base Legacy comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. Higher trim levels feature a 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine that delivers an impressive 260 horsepower and 256 lb-ft of torque.
The XV, on the other hand, is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. While the XV’s engine is less powerful, it offers better fuel economy than the Legacy. The XV achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, compared to the Legacy’s 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
Handling: Nimble Maneuverability vs Stable Ride
The Subaru Legacy provides a more refined and composed driving experience than the XV. Its longer wheelbase and lower center of gravity contribute to its stability and handling capabilities. The Legacy also features a more sophisticated suspension system that absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road with ease.
The XV, with its shorter wheelbase and higher ground clearance, offers better agility and maneuverability in tight spaces. It is also more capable off-road thanks to its standard all-wheel drive and X-Mode, which optimizes the vehicle’s performance in challenging conditions.
Interior: Spaciousness, Comfort, and Technology
The Subaru Legacy offers a more spacious and comfortable interior than the XV. It has a larger cabin with more legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The Legacy also features higher-quality materials and a more upscale design.
The XV’s interior is more compact and utilitarian. It has less space for passengers and cargo, but it still provides a comfortable and functional cabin. The XV’s infotainment system is also more basic than the Legacy’s, but it offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Exterior: Design and Aesthetics
The Subaru Legacy has a more traditional sedan design with a sleek and sophisticated silhouette. Its exterior features sharp lines, a prominent grille, and stylish headlights. The Legacy is available in a variety of trim levels, each with its own unique styling cues.
The XV has a more rugged and adventurous design with a crossover-inspired silhouette. Its exterior features a bolder grille, protective body cladding, and elevated ground clearance. The XV is also available in a variety of trim levels, including the off-road-oriented Wilderness Edition.
Safety: Subaru’s Renowned Safety Features
Both the Subaru Legacy and the XV have received top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). They come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including:
- EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
- Pre-Collision Braking
- Lane Departure Warning
- Adaptive Cruise Control
The Legacy offers additional safety features such as Reverse Automatic Braking and Blind Spot Detection, while the XV features X-Mode, which enhances its off-road safety capabilities.
Value: Price, Features, and Ownership Costs
The Subaru Legacy has a higher starting price than the XV. However, it also offers more power, space, and features. The XV is more affordable, but it sacrifices some performance and interior amenities.
Both the Legacy and the XV have similar ownership costs, with comparable insurance rates and maintenance expenses. However, the XV’s better fuel economy may result in lower fuel costs over time.
Verdict: A Matter of Choice and Priorities
The Subaru Legacy and the XV are both excellent vehicles that offer unique advantages and appeal to different types of drivers. The Legacy is the better choice for those who prioritize power, space, and a comfortable driving experience. The XV is the better choice for those who need a more affordable, agile, and off-road-capable vehicle.
Ultimately, the best choice between the Subaru Legacy vs XV depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. By carefully considering the key differences outlined in this comparison, you can make an informed decision that will lead you to the perfect Subaru for your lifestyle.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which is more powerful, the Subaru Legacy or the XV?
A: The Subaru Legacy offers more powerful engine options than the XV.
Q: Which is more fuel-efficient, the Subaru Legacy or the XV?
A: The Subaru XV achieves better fuel economy than the Legacy.
Q: Which has a more spacious interior, the Subaru Legacy or the XV?
A: The Subaru Legacy has a larger and more spacious interior than the XV.
Q: Which has a more rugged design, the Subaru Legacy or the XV?
A: The Subaru XV has a more rugged and adventurous design than the Legacy.
Q: Which has better off-road capabilities, the Subaru Legacy or the XV?
A: The Subaru XV offers better off-road capabilities thanks to its standard all-wheel drive and X-Mode.
