Hey guys! Thinking about snagging a 2021 Subaru Legacy? It's a solid choice, but before you jump in, let's break down the good and the not-so-good. This way, you’ll know exactly what you're getting. We'll dive into everything from its safety features to its fuel economy, making sure you have all the info to make the best decision. Let’s get started!

Overview of the 2021 Subaru Legacy

The 2021 Subaru Legacy is a mid-size sedan that’s known for its reliability, safety, and standard all-wheel drive. It's a practical car that offers a comfortable ride and a decent amount of tech. The Legacy stands out because it includes all-wheel drive as a standard feature, which is a big plus if you live in an area with snow or rain. But, like any car, it has its pros and cons. Let's explore those in detail, so you can see if the 2021 Legacy is the right fit for you.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy is designed to offer a blend of comfort, safety, and practicality, making it an appealing choice for a wide range of drivers. This mid-size sedan distinguishes itself with its standard all-wheel-drive system, a feature that is typically an optional upgrade in many competing vehicles. The inclusion of all-wheel drive enhances the car's stability and traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions, making it a reliable option for those living in regions with frequent rain, snow, or ice. Beyond its all-wheel-drive capability, the Legacy boasts a comfortable interior, user-friendly technology, and a reputation for strong safety performance. However, like any vehicle, it also has its drawbacks, which potential buyers should carefully consider. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the pros and cons of the 2021 Subaru Legacy to provide a balanced perspective, ensuring you have all the necessary information to make an informed decision.

The Legacy's appeal extends beyond its functional features. The car's interior is designed with comfort in mind, offering ample space for both front and rear passengers. The seats are supportive, making long drives more enjoyable, and the cabin is generally quiet, reducing road noise and enhancing the overall driving experience. The infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, with a responsive touchscreen display that integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These features allow drivers to stay connected and entertained while on the road. Furthermore, the Legacy's safety credentials are a major selling point. It comes equipped with a suite of advanced safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, all of which contribute to its excellent safety ratings. These features provide an added layer of protection for both the driver and passengers, making the Legacy a safe and reliable choice for families and individuals alike. By understanding both the strengths and weaknesses of the 2021 Subaru Legacy, you can better assess whether it meets your specific needs and preferences.

Ultimately, the 2021 Subaru Legacy aims to provide a well-rounded driving experience that balances practicality with comfort and safety. Its standard all-wheel-drive system sets it apart from many of its competitors, offering enhanced stability and control in various driving conditions. The spacious and comfortable interior, coupled with user-friendly technology, makes it a pleasant car to drive and ride in. The comprehensive suite of safety features adds peace of mind, knowing that you and your passengers are well-protected. However, it is important to consider the car's drawbacks, such as its engine performance and the design of its infotainment system, to determine if they align with your expectations. By carefully weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about whether the 2021 Subaru Legacy is the right car for you. This review is designed to provide you with all the necessary information to help you in this process.

Pros of the 2021 Subaru Legacy

Let's kick things off with the good stuff! What makes the 2021 Subaru Legacy a worthy contender? Here’s a rundown of its major advantages:

Standard All-Wheel Drive

This is a big one! Every 2021 Legacy comes with Subaru’s signature all-wheel-drive system. This gives you extra confidence in tricky weather conditions like snow, rain, or even just gravel roads. It provides better traction and stability, making it a safer ride overall.

The standard all-wheel-drive system in the 2021 Subaru Legacy is a significant advantage, particularly for drivers who live in regions with challenging weather conditions. This feature enhances the car's ability to maintain traction and stability on slippery surfaces, providing a greater sense of control and confidence behind the wheel. Whether you're navigating snowy roads, wet streets, or gravel paths, the all-wheel-drive system ensures that power is distributed effectively to all four wheels, minimizing the risk of skidding or losing control. This is especially beneficial for those who are not experienced in driving in adverse weather conditions, as it provides an added layer of safety and security. In addition to its practical benefits, the all-wheel-drive system also enhances the overall driving experience by improving the car's handling and responsiveness. This makes the Legacy a more enjoyable and capable vehicle to drive in a variety of situations.

Moreover, the inclusion of all-wheel drive as a standard feature sets the 2021 Subaru Legacy apart from many of its competitors in the mid-size sedan segment. While some other manufacturers offer all-wheel drive as an optional upgrade, Subaru includes it in every Legacy model, making it a more accessible and affordable option for drivers who prioritize this feature. This commitment to all-wheel drive reflects Subaru's understanding of the needs of its customers, many of whom live in areas where all-wheel drive is highly desirable. The added cost of upgrading to all-wheel drive can be a significant factor for many buyers, and Subaru's decision to include it as standard equipment makes the Legacy a more attractive and competitive choice. This also simplifies the buying process, as customers do not need to weigh the pros and cons of adding all-wheel drive; it is simply part of the package.

The benefits of Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system extend beyond just improved traction in adverse weather. It also enhances the car's cornering ability and overall stability, making it a more predictable and confidence-inspiring vehicle to drive. This is particularly noticeable on winding roads or during sudden maneuvers, where the all-wheel-drive system helps to keep the car planted and stable. The system continuously monitors wheel speed, throttle position, and other factors to distribute power to the wheels that need it most, ensuring optimal grip and control. This results in a smoother, more controlled driving experience that can enhance both safety and enjoyment. Additionally, the all-wheel-drive system contributes to the Legacy's reputation for reliability and durability, as it is designed to withstand the rigors of daily driving in a variety of conditions. This makes the 2021 Subaru Legacy a smart choice for drivers who value both performance and peace of mind.

Strong Safety Ratings

Subaru has a reputation for safety, and the 2021 Legacy is no exception. It scores high in crash tests and comes with a suite of advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. This can give you peace of mind knowing you and your passengers are well-protected.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy's strong safety ratings are a testament to Subaru's commitment to building safe and reliable vehicles. The Legacy has consistently performed well in crash tests conducted by organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), earning top marks for its ability to protect occupants in the event of a collision. These ratings reflect the car's robust construction and the effectiveness of its safety systems. In addition to its crash test performance, the Legacy also comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features designed to prevent accidents from occurring in the first place. These technologies work together to provide drivers with an added layer of protection and peace of mind.

One of the standout safety features of the 2021 Subaru Legacy is its automatic emergency braking system. This system uses sensors to detect potential collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians and can automatically apply the brakes if the driver fails to react in time. This can help to mitigate or even prevent accidents, reducing the risk of injury for both the occupants of the Legacy and other road users. The Legacy also features lane departure warning, which alerts the driver if the car begins to drift out of its lane, helping to prevent accidents caused by driver fatigue or distraction. Adaptive cruise control is another valuable safety feature, maintaining a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead and automatically adjusting the car's speed to match the flow of traffic. These advanced safety technologies, combined with the Legacy's strong structural design, make it a safe and reliable choice for drivers and passengers alike.

The Legacy's safety features are not just about preventing accidents; they also contribute to a more comfortable and confident driving experience. The adaptive cruise control system, for example, can reduce driver fatigue on long trips by automatically maintaining a safe following distance and adjusting the car's speed as needed. The lane departure warning system can help to keep the driver alert and focused on the road, reducing the risk of accidents caused by inattention. And the automatic emergency braking system provides an added layer of security, knowing that the car is capable of automatically intervening to prevent or mitigate collisions. These features work together to create a safer and more enjoyable driving environment, making the 2021 Subaru Legacy a standout choice in its class. By prioritizing safety in its design and engineering, Subaru has created a vehicle that inspires confidence and provides peace of mind for drivers and passengers.

Comfortable Ride

The Legacy is known for its smooth and comfortable ride. The suspension soaks up bumps nicely, making it a great choice for daily commutes or long road trips. The seats are also supportive, adding to the overall comfort.

The comfortable ride of the 2021 Subaru Legacy is one of its most appealing attributes, particularly for drivers who spend a significant amount of time behind the wheel. The car's suspension system is designed to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and composed ride even on rough surfaces. This is especially beneficial for daily commuters who encounter potholes and uneven pavement on their way to work. The Legacy's ability to glide over these obstacles without jarring the occupants contributes to a more relaxed and enjoyable driving experience. In addition to its suspension, the Legacy's seats are also designed with comfort in mind. They provide ample support for the back and legs, reducing fatigue on long drives. The seats are also well-cushioned, adding to the overall sense of comfort and relaxation.

The Legacy's comfortable ride is not just about the suspension and seats; it's also about the overall refinement of the car. The cabin is well-insulated, reducing road noise and wind noise, which can be a major source of distraction and fatigue on long trips. The car's climate control system is also effective at maintaining a comfortable temperature, even in extreme weather conditions. These factors, combined with the Legacy's smooth and responsive powertrain, create a driving experience that is both relaxing and enjoyable.

For long road trips, the 2021 Subaru Legacy truly shines, offering a serene and pleasant environment for both the driver and passengers. The supportive seats ensure that everyone remains comfortable, even after hours on the road, while the smooth ride quality minimizes fatigue. The spacious cabin provides ample legroom and headroom, allowing passengers to stretch out and relax. Furthermore, the Legacy's advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, can help to reduce the stress of driving on long journeys. By combining comfort, safety, and refinement, the 2021 Subaru Legacy provides an exceptional driving experience that is well-suited for both daily commutes and long road trips. Whether you're running errands around town or embarking on a cross-country adventure, the Legacy's comfortable ride will make the journey more enjoyable.

User-Friendly Tech

The infotainment system in the 2021 Legacy is easy to use. The touchscreen is responsive, and it comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, so you can easily connect your smartphone.

The user-friendly technology in the 2021 Subaru Legacy enhances the overall driving experience by providing convenient and intuitive access to a wide range of features and functions. The car's infotainment system is designed to be easy to navigate, with a responsive touchscreen display and clear, concise menus. This makes it simple for drivers to access navigation, audio, and other essential functions without being distracted from the road. The integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is another major benefit, allowing drivers to seamlessly connect their smartphones and access their favorite apps, music, and contacts directly through the car's infotainment system. This eliminates the need to fumble with a phone while driving, promoting safety and convenience.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy's infotainment system is not just about convenience; it's also about enhancing the overall driving experience. The system's voice recognition capabilities allow drivers to control many functions using voice commands, keeping their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road. The system also supports over-the-air updates, ensuring that it always has the latest features and improvements. Furthermore, the Legacy's infotainment system is designed to be customizable, allowing drivers to personalize the display and settings to their preferences. This level of customization helps to create a more personalized and enjoyable driving experience.

The benefits of user-friendly technology extend beyond just the infotainment system. The 2021 Subaru Legacy also features a range of other technological innovations designed to make driving easier and more enjoyable. These include features such as keyless entry, push-button start, and a rearview camera, all of which contribute to a more convenient and hassle-free driving experience. The Legacy also offers advanced driver-assistance systems, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, which help to enhance safety and awareness on the road. By combining user-friendly technology with advanced safety features, the 2021 Subaru Legacy provides a driving experience that is both enjoyable and safe.

Cons of the 2021 Subaru Legacy

Alright, now for the downsides. No car is perfect, and the 2021 Legacy has a few areas where it could be better. Let's take a look:

Engine Performance

The base engine can feel a bit underpowered, especially when you're trying to accelerate quickly or pass on the highway. The optional turbocharged engine offers more punch, but it also comes at a higher price.

The engine performance of the 2021 Subaru Legacy is an area where some drivers may find it lacking, particularly when it comes to the base engine option. While the standard engine provides adequate power for everyday driving, it can feel underpowered when attempting to accelerate quickly or pass other vehicles on the highway. This can be frustrating for drivers who prefer a more responsive and engaging driving experience. The lack of power is especially noticeable when the car is fully loaded with passengers or cargo, as the engine has to work harder to maintain speed. This can lead to increased fuel consumption and a less enjoyable driving experience overall. For those who prioritize performance, the optional turbocharged engine offers a significant improvement in power and acceleration. However, this upgrade comes at a higher price, which may not be feasible for all buyers.

Moreover, the base engine's performance can be further hampered by the car's continuously variable transmission (CVT). While CVTs are known for their fuel efficiency, they can sometimes feel less responsive than traditional automatic transmissions. The CVT in the 2021 Subaru Legacy is designed to mimic the feel of a traditional automatic, but it can still exhibit some of the characteristic CVT drone under hard acceleration. This can be off-putting for drivers who are accustomed to the more linear power delivery of a traditional transmission. The combination of the base engine and the CVT can make the Legacy feel less sporty and engaging than some of its competitors.

For drivers who demand more power and responsiveness, the optional turbocharged engine is a worthwhile upgrade. This engine provides a significant boost in horsepower and torque, making the Legacy feel much more lively and fun to drive. The turbocharged engine also comes with a more refined CVT, which provides smoother and more responsive shifting. However, the added cost of the turbocharged engine may be a barrier for some buyers. Ultimately, the choice between the base engine and the turbocharged engine depends on individual driving preferences and budget. Drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency and affordability may be content with the base engine, while those who value performance and responsiveness will likely find the turbocharged engine to be a better fit.

Infotainment System Design

While the infotainment system is user-friendly, some people find the design a bit bland. The large screen can also be distracting at times, as you have to take your eyes off the road to use it.

While the infotainment system in the 2021 Subaru Legacy is generally user-friendly, some users may find its design to be somewhat bland and uninspired. The interface, while functional, lacks the visual flair and modern aesthetics that can be found in some competing vehicles. This can make the system feel less engaging and enjoyable to use. The large touchscreen display, while providing ample screen real estate, can also be distracting at times, as drivers may need to take their eyes off the road to navigate the menus and access various features. This can be a safety concern, particularly for drivers who are easily distracted or who frequently use the infotainment system while driving.

Moreover, the placement of the touchscreen display in the center console can also contribute to distractions. The screen is positioned relatively low, which means that drivers need to look down and away from the road to view it. This can be problematic, especially in situations where quick glances at the screen are necessary. Some drivers may find that they need to adjust their seating position to get a better view of the screen, which can compromise their comfort and ergonomics. The design of the infotainment system also lacks physical buttons and knobs for certain functions, such as volume control and climate control. This means that drivers must rely on the touchscreen to adjust these settings, which can be less convenient and more distracting than using physical controls.

To improve the infotainment system's design, Subaru could consider incorporating more visually appealing graphics, a more intuitive menu structure, and physical controls for frequently used functions. This would make the system more enjoyable to use and less distracting for drivers. Additionally, Subaru could explore alternative screen placement options, such as a higher-mounted display or a head-up display, to reduce the need for drivers to take their eyes off the road. By addressing these design issues, Subaru could create an infotainment system that is both user-friendly and visually appealing, enhancing the overall driving experience for Legacy owners.

Resale Value

Subaru's generally hold their value well, but the Legacy doesn't always perform as strongly as other models in the lineup. This is something to consider if you plan on selling or trading in your car in a few years.

The resale value of the 2021 Subaru Legacy is an important consideration for potential buyers, particularly those who plan to sell or trade in their vehicle after a few years of ownership. While Subaru vehicles generally hold their value well, the Legacy's resale value may not be as strong as some other models in the Subaru lineup. This means that owners may not recoup as much of their initial investment when they sell or trade in their Legacy, compared to owners of other Subaru models. Several factors can influence a vehicle's resale value, including its overall condition, mileage, and the popularity of the model. The Legacy's resale value may be affected by its perceived lack of excitement and its more conservative styling, which may not appeal to as wide a range of buyers as some other vehicles.

Moreover, the mid-size sedan segment is highly competitive, with many excellent options available. This can put pressure on the resale value of all vehicles in the segment, including the Legacy. Buyers who are looking for a used mid-size sedan may have a wide range of choices, which can drive down prices. Additionally, changes in automotive trends and consumer preferences can also impact a vehicle's resale value. For example, the growing popularity of SUVs and crossovers may lead to decreased demand for sedans, which could negatively affect the resale value of the Legacy.

To maximize the resale value of a 2021 Subaru Legacy, owners should take good care of their vehicle and keep it in excellent condition. Regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and careful driving habits can all help to preserve the car's value. Owners should also keep accurate records of all maintenance and repairs, as this can increase buyer confidence. Additionally, choosing popular color combinations and options can make the Legacy more attractive to potential buyers. While the Legacy's resale value may not be as strong as some other Subaru models, it is still a reliable and well-built vehicle that can provide years of dependable service. By taking good care of their Legacy, owners can help to maintain its value and ensure that they receive a fair price when they sell or trade it in.

Is the 2021 Subaru Legacy Right for You?

So, is the 2021 Subaru Legacy a good fit for you? It really depends on your needs and priorities. If you value safety, reliability, and all-wheel drive, it’s a great choice. But if you’re looking for a sporty, high-performance sedan, you might want to consider other options. Weigh the pros and cons, think about what you need in a car, and then make your decision.

Ultimately, the decision of whether the 2021 Subaru Legacy is the right car for you depends on your individual needs, preferences, and priorities. The Legacy offers a compelling combination of safety, reliability, and practicality, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of drivers. However, it's important to carefully consider its strengths and weaknesses to determine if it truly aligns with your specific requirements. If safety is a top priority, the Legacy's strong safety ratings and suite of advanced safety features make it a standout choice. The standard all-wheel-drive system provides added peace of mind, particularly for those who live in areas with challenging weather conditions. The comfortable ride and user-friendly technology also contribute to a pleasant and enjoyable driving experience.

On the other hand, if you're seeking a sporty and engaging driving experience, the Legacy may not be the best fit. The base engine can feel underpowered, and the CVT transmission may not appeal to drivers who prefer a more traditional driving feel. The infotainment system's design, while functional, may not be as visually appealing as some other options. And the Legacy's resale value may not be as strong as some other Subaru models. Before making a decision, it's essential to test drive the Legacy and compare it to other vehicles in its class. Consider factors such as fuel efficiency, cargo space, and overall cost of ownership. Read reviews from other owners and consult with trusted automotive experts. By doing your research and carefully evaluating your needs, you can make an informed decision about whether the 2021 Subaru Legacy is the right car for you.

In conclusion, the 2021 Subaru Legacy is a well-rounded and practical mid-size sedan that offers a compelling blend of safety, reliability, and comfort. While it may not be the most exciting or stylish vehicle in its class, it excels in the areas that matter most to many drivers. Its standard all-wheel-drive system, strong safety ratings, and comfortable ride make it a smart choice for those who prioritize practicality and peace of mind. However, it's important to consider its limitations, such as its engine performance and infotainment system design, to ensure that it meets your specific needs and expectations. By weighing the pros and cons and doing your research, you can determine if the 2021 Subaru Legacy is the right car for you.