Targeted at consumers who want a combination of safety, reliability, and interior comfort, the 2001 Subaru Legacy decides to ditch its base Brighton wagon, which carried only the bare minimum of features. That leaves the L and GT for wagon choices. Trim lines for the sedan (L, GT, and GT Limited) remain the same this year. All feature full-time all-wheel drive, with the GT models adding limited slip differential for better performance. Though the 2004 Legacy lineup shares the same 2.5-liter, 165-hp H4 engine and choice of 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic, the GTs have a sport-tuned suspension for a sportier ride. The engine has been rated as low emission.

Both sedans and wagons come with ABS brakes and dual front airbags, with the GT Limited including side impact bags as well. New for the 2001 Legacy is 24-hour road assistance. The L wagon and sedan gets a temperature display and an intermittent rear wiper for the wagon. Though the L is decently equipped with full power features and cruise control, both the GT and GT Limited add on a power driver's seat, sunroof, and halogen headlights. Rear seats in the wagons split-fold 60/40 to expand the trunk area to 68 cubic feet, and they also come with a roof rack. Sedan seats do not fold down, but the trunk holds a good-sized 12.4 cubic feet.

Drivers of the 2001 Legacy are amazed by the AWD performance and how it moves like butter through snow and ice. Handling and a smooth ride also get high marks. Storage room is ample in the wagons and decent in sedans. Gas mileage is on the cusp, with some owners liking the 22/27, but others feeling it should be better. Other complaints mention the lack of horsepower and some wind noise. Legroom is still cramped and the tailgate on the wagons is heavy.