Subaru Legacy vs Subaru WRX

The 2021 Subaru Legacy was a midsize sedan that often flew under the radar, competing with popular models like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. It was available in six trim levels, offering a range of premium features and equipment add-ons. The Legacy shared much of its design and mechanics with the Subaru Outback, featuring a similar fascia, headlight design, and dashboard setup. For 2021, Subaru enhanced the Legacy with standard steering-responsive LED headlights and high-beam assist. While its design wasn't particularly striking, it adhered to Subaru's brand identity, focusing on safety and reliability. The Legacy's exterior included high-gloss stainless steel moldings and various wheel options, adding a touch of sophistication. Inside, the Legacy offered a blend of high-quality materials and practical design, with options for leather upholstery and other premium features.

The 2022 Subaru WRX, on the other hand, presented a more subtle exterior design, despite being two inches wider than its predecessor. The front end featured a small hexagonal grille and signature hood scoop, while the side profile was streamlined with black plastic cladding for improved aerodynamics. The rear showcased dramatic fender flares and quad tailpipes, giving it a sporty appearance. Inside, the WRX saw significant improvements in fit and finish, with a D-shaped steering wheel, aluminum-alloy pedal covers, and carbon-fiber-pattern trim accents. The sport seats were comfortable and supportive, making the WRX a viable option for daily commuting. Despite its performance focus, the WRX maintained practicality with standard all-wheel drive and a competitive price point.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine in the Limited XT and Touring XT trims, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and all-wheel drive was standard. The Legacy's steering was well-balanced, though it required lane-centering technology for highway stability. Fuel economy was impressive for a non-hybrid AWD sedan, with the base engine achieving 27 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined, while the turbocharged engine managed 24 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. While the power increase was minimal compared to the previous generation, the WRX offered a choice between a six-speed manual transmission and a CVT, known as the Subaru Performance Transmission. The manual transmission provided a satisfying driving experience, with precise gear shifts and a responsive clutch. The WRX's suspension, built on the Subaru Global Platform, offered improved ride quality and reduced body roll. The CVT-equipped models boasted faster shift times and variable torque distribution. The WRX's performance was commendable, though some drivers desired more power.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy prioritized comfort and spaciousness, with improved seat positioning and sound insulation. The front seats offered various adjustments, and the rear seats provided ample legroom for adults. The Legacy's cabin felt roomy, akin to a full-size car, with good forward visibility. Heated and ventilated seats were available, along with a heated steering wheel. However, the Legacy's trunk space was limited to 15.1 cubic feet, sacrificing cargo capacity for passenger comfort.

The 2022 Subaru WRX, while lacking a hatchback option, offered a slight increase in cargo capacity to 12.5 cubic feet, with a 60/40 split-folding rear seat for added versatility. The sport seats were comfortable and well-upholstered, with premium materials available in higher trims. The WRX's standard all-wheel drive and practical features made it a compelling choice for those seeking a performance-focused sedan with everyday usability.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy featured a dual 7-inch infotainment system in the base model, with an 11.6-inch touchscreen available in higher trims. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connectivity options. Upmarket trims offered additional features like navigation, a Harman Kardon audio system, and keyless entry. While the infotainment system was functional, its design lacked sophistication, and the screen attracted fingerprints.

The 2022 Subaru WRX's infotainment system impressed with its 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen in premium trims, offering a visually appealing interface. Physical controls for climate and audio functions enhanced usability. However, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration was less seamless, with Android Auto occupying only part of the screen. The WRX also offered an 11-speaker Harman Kardon stereo system, providing excellent audio quality.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy excelled in safety, earning top scores from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with Subaru EyeSight technology, including adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and pre-collision braking. Additional safety features like reverse automatic braking and blind-spot monitoring were available. The Legacy's safety systems were effective but could be intrusive with frequent alerts.

The 2022 Subaru WRX's safety features varied by transmission. CVT-equipped models included the EyeSight suite, offering advanced driver assistance systems like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Manual transmission models lacked EyeSight due to potential stalling issues. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims. The WRX's new platform improved crash safety, and it came standard with seven airbags.