Battle of the subarus: wrx’s agility vs legacy’s comfort
What To Know
- The Legacy, on the other hand, prioritizes comfort and stability, with a softer suspension and a higher ride height, making it more suitable for daily commuting and long road trips.
- The WRX gets an estimated 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the Legacy gets an estimated 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
- However, the Legacy offers a more comprehensive package with a larger interior, more luxurious appointments, and better fuel economy, making it a better choice for those who prioritize comfort and practicality.
When it comes to performance-oriented all-wheel drive vehicles, the Subaru WRX and Legacy have long been at the forefront of the discussion. Both cars offer a blend of practicality, speed, and handling that has endeared them to enthusiasts and daily drivers alike. However, with their distinct personalities and strengths, choosing between the WRX and Legacy can be a daunting task. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key similarities and differences between these two iconic Subarus, helping you make an informed decision.
Performance and Handling
The WRX and Legacy are both known for their impressive performance capabilities. The WRX, with its turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer engine, boasts 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0-60 mph in under 5 seconds. The Legacy, while not as powerful, features a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter boxer engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, providing a more refined and balanced driving experience.
In terms of handling, the WRX has a sportier setup with stiffer suspension and a lower center of gravity, resulting in sharper cornering and more responsive steering. The Legacy, on the other hand, prioritizes comfort and stability, with a softer suspension and a higher ride height, making it more suitable for daily commuting and long road trips.
Design and Interior
The WRX and Legacy differ significantly in their exterior design. The WRX sports a more aggressive and aerodynamic appearance, with a muscular stance, a large rear spoiler, and a distinctive hexagonal grille. The Legacy, in contrast, has a more conservative and elegant design, with a sleek profile, a spacious cabin, and a refined interior.
Inside, the WRX offers a driver-focused cockpit with supportive seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, and a large touchscreen infotainment system. The Legacy, on the other hand, features a more luxurious and spacious cabin, with high-quality materials, comfortable seats, and a comprehensive suite of safety and convenience features.
Practicality and Fuel Economy
While both cars are all-wheel drive, their practicality varies depending on their body styles. The WRX is available as a sedan or hatchback, providing a balance of performance and versatility. The Legacy, on the other hand, is a midsize sedan that offers more interior space and a larger trunk, making it more suitable for families and those who prioritize comfort.
Fuel economy is another key factor to consider. The WRX, with its turbocharged engine, has a slightly lower fuel economy rating than the Legacy. The WRX gets an estimated 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the Legacy gets an estimated 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
Safety and Reliability
Both the WRX and Legacy have earned high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). They come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control.
In terms of reliability, Subaru has a reputation for building durable and dependable vehicles. Both the WRX and Legacy have consistently ranked highly in reliability surveys, with the Legacy often earning top marks for its longevity and low maintenance costs.
Price and Value
The WRX and Legacy offer different value propositions based on their performance and features. The WRX starts at a lower price point than the Legacy, making it a more affordable option for those seeking a performance-oriented vehicle. However, the Legacy offers a more comprehensive package with a larger interior, more luxurious appointments, and better fuel economy, making it a better choice for those who prioritize comfort and practicality.
Which Subaru is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between the Subaru WRX and Legacy depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance, handling, and a sporty driving experience, the WRX is the clear choice. If you value comfort, practicality, and a luxurious interior, the Legacy is the better option.
Key Points: The Ultimate Choice
Both the Subaru WRX and Legacy are exceptional vehicles that offer a unique blend of performance, practicality, and reliability. Whether you’re an adrenaline-seeking enthusiast or a family-oriented driver, Subaru has a car that meets your needs.
Top Questions Asked
1. Which car is faster, the WRX or Legacy?
The WRX is faster than the Legacy, with a 0-60 mph time of under 5 seconds compared to the Legacy’s 7.5 seconds.
2. Which car has a better fuel economy?
The Legacy has a better fuel economy than the WRX, with an estimated 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway compared to the WRX’s 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
3. Which car has a more spacious interior?
The Legacy has a more spacious interior than the WRX, with a larger cabin and a larger trunk.
4. Which car is more reliable?
Both the WRX and Legacy have a reputation for reliability, with the Legacy often earning top marks in reliability surveys.
5. Which car is better for families?
The Legacy is better for families than the WRX, with its larger interior, more comfortable seats, and a more comprehensive suite of safety features.