2020 Subaru WRX vs 2021 Subaru Legacy

The 2020 Subaru WRX, originally a performance variant of the Subaru Impreza, evolved into its own model by 2015. By 2020, it retained its aggressive styling with a wider stance, lower front splitter, rear deck spoiler, and functional air intake. The WRX STI version took it further with a large rear wing and additional aerodynamic components. Despite its sporty exterior, the non-STI version had a somewhat pedestrian cabin styling. Trim levels included Base, Premium, and Limited, each offering various features from 17-inch alloy wheels and a 6.5-inch touchscreen to leather upholstery and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. The WRX STI added more performance-oriented features like Brembo brakes and Recaro sport bucket seats.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy, a midsize sedan, competed with models like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. Available in six trims—Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, Limited XT, and Touring XT—the Legacy carried over much of the Subaru Outback's body and mechanics. For 2021, it featured standard low-beam and high-beam steering-responsive LED headlights. The Legacy's design was more subdued compared to its competitors but stayed true to Subaru's branding. It offered various wheel options and exterior trim elements, along with practical features like power-folding mirrors and roof mounting points for accessories. The interior was a blend of high-quality materials and practical design, with options for leather upholstery and other premium touches.

The 2020 Subaru WRX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter boxer-four engine, producing 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It came with a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT. The manual transmission provided a 50:50 front:rear torque distribution, while the CVT offered a 45:55 split. The WRX STI featured a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine with 310 hp and 290 lb-ft of torque, along with Brembo brakes and a stiffer suspension. The WRX excelled in cornering with minimal turbo lag and precise steering, though it had a stiff ride and noticeable road noise.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a CVT. The Legacy's AWD system was standard, providing stability over rough terrain. The 2.5-liter engine achieved an EPA-estimated 27 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, while the turbo engine earned 24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. The Legacy's steering was well-balanced at low speeds but required lane-centering technology for better highway performance.

The 2020 Subaru WRX offered excellent visibility with its simple sedan layout, large windshield, and slanted hood. The cabin featured a straightforward dash layout with easy-to-use controls and ample storage. The first-row seating provided plenty of head- and legroom, while the rear seats were adequate for adults on short trips. The WRX had 12 cubic feet of cargo space, comparable to other sports cars.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy focused on comfort with a sound-insulation windshield and improved seat positioning. The Base model had manually adjustable front seats, while higher trims offered power-adjustable options. The Legacy provided ample back seat room and a sense of spaciousness similar to a full-size car. Heated and ventilated seats, as well as a heated steering wheel, were available. The Legacy had 15.1 cubic feet of cargo space, which was less than some competitors but sufficient for most needs.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came with a standard 6.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, upgradeable to a 7-inch screen. The Starlink system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the tech was user-friendly without being overwhelming. The WRX also featured a digital display in the instrument panel and an additional information screen atop the dash.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy featured dual 7-inch infotainment and climate control displays in the base model, with an 11.6-inch screen in higher trims. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and multiple USB ports. Higher trims added navigation, a Harman Kardon audio system, and additional power outlets. The 11.6-inch screen had a somewhat unsophisticated appearance but was easy to navigate.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came standard with front- and side-impact airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system. The optional EyeSight suite included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The WRX earned top marks from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy also earned top scores from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with Subaru EyeSight technology, which included adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning. Additional safety features like reverse automatic braking and blind-spot monitoring were available. The Legacy's EyeSight system was user-friendly but could be overly sensitive with its alerts.