2018 Subaru Legacy Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
byCalvin Kim
Vehicle Test Engineer
Calvin Kim is an automotive journalist at Edmunds.Pros
- Standard all-wheel drive for extra wet-weather traction
- Excellent outward visibility
- Easy-to-use infotainment systems
Cons
- Engines down on power compared to competitors
What’s new
Revised for 2018, the Subaru Legacy has freshened front and rear styling, higher-quality interior materials, a larger 6.5-inch standard display with smartphone integration, and a more powerful air-conditioning system. Subaru says it's also retuned the Legacy for smoother acceleration, a more comfortable ride quality, sportier steering feel, and reduced wind and road noise at highway speeds.
Vehicle overview
Thanks to the Legacy's all-wheel-drive system, Subaru's midsize sedan makes a lot of sense for those living in areas where the weather frequently makes the road slippery. But its available tech and safety features will appeal to anyone.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2018 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Premium 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.26 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$140/mo
Legacy 2.5i Premium
vs
$188/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
All-wheel drive is standard on every Legacy. This is the car's biggest differentiator among its competitors; only a few other cars in this class offer it. Otherwise, the Legacy features roomy seating, a comfortable road-going demeanor and the latest in-car technology. Every 2018 Legacy has a 6.5-inch display with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. A larger 8-inch system that supports multitouch and navigation is optional.
The main drawback to the Legacy is engine choice. The Legacy's 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is economical but not very powerful. You get more power from the 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine, but it's still not as quick as other sedans with upgraded engines, and it's thirsty. Overall, though, we like the Legacy. Even if you live in a place where it's sunny 365 days a year, the car's mix of features, interior room and safety features makes it a worthwhile choice.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
Thanks to the Legacy's all-wheel-drive system, Subaru's midsize sedan makes a lot of sense for those living in areas where the weather frequently makes the road slippery. But its available tech and safety features will appeal to anyone.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our First Drive of the 2015 Subaru Legacy Premium (2.5L flat-4 | CVT automatic | AWD).
NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current Subaru Legacy has received some revisions, including suspension and steering changes, larger and more capable infotainment screens, and more extensive noise reduction measures. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's Subaru Legacy.
Driving
Acceleration is tepid from the Legacy's four-cylinder engine, but it's pretty smooth and relatively quiet. The continuously variable automatic transmission performs "shifts" so it feels more like a traditional automatic. Handling and steering are acceptable.
Comfort
Seat comfort is excellent front and rear, and we were especially impressed with the soft and grippy cloth material. The cabin is fairly quiet. The engine is subdued in most situations, but it can get loud at high rpm.
Interior
It's an airy cabin, with not only ample room for passengers but also slim roof pillars for better visibility. There are plenty of handy small-item storage bins, too.
Utility
Cargo volume is generous due to the airy trunk. On the inside, numerous pockets and compartments ensure there's someplace for all your personal belongings.
Technology
With a large standard screen and smartphone mirroring for both Apple and Android phones, the Legacy also features Bluetooth and various apps that use your phone's data connection.
Which Legacy does Edmunds recommend?
We recommend the 2.5i Premium trim for most Legacy buyers. It comes with most of the features you're going to want or need, such as a power driver front seat, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control and the Legacy's upgraded 8-inch touchscreen. Just make sure to get the Premium with the optional EyeSight system that includes some useful and important driver safety aids.
2018 Subaru Legacy models
The 2018 Subaru Legacy is a five-passenger midsize sedan available with two engines and five trim levels: the base 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Sport, 2.5i Limited and 3.6R Limited. Legacy 2.5i models have a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (175 hp and 174 lb-ft) while the 3.6R has a 3.6-liter six-cylinder (256 hp and 246 lb-ft). All Legacys come with a continuously variable automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.