Auto Guide
2021 Subaru Legacy
Used

Review and specifications

2021 Subaru Legacy

The redesigned 2020 Legacy provides a comfortable ride that outshines some luxury cars. Handling is responsive but not sporty. This all-wheel-drive sedan is fitted with a choice of two four-cylinder engines: a 182-hp 2.5-liter or a 260-hp turbocharged 2.4-liter. The standard engine is adequate but makes an unpleasant roar when pushed. It provides a decent 28 mpg overall. The turbo version delivers strong acceleration and is quieter. We like that the well-tuned CVT mimics the shift patterns of conventional automatics. Unfortunately, the large infotainment screen requires users to wade into menus to perform some common tasks. Standard equipment includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control, but blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning are optional. Starting with the 2021 model year, steering responsive headlights, which are designed to swivel according to steering input to give added visibility in corners, are standard on all trims. Changes for 2022 include standard blind spot warning and reverse automatic braking on the Sport model. For 2025, the Limited trim receives a standard power moonroof, heated steering wheel, navigation, and DriverFocus distraction mitigation system. 2025 is the final year for the Legacy.

Market value
$18,200
Fuel
Conventional
Transmission
Automatic
Seats
5
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Model year 2021
Owner rating 4/5
Reliability 2/5
Data updated June 4, 2026

At a glance

Model data

Overview

Powertrain
Conventional
Body style
sedan
Drive type
AWD
Transmission
CVT
Category
Midsized cars
Generation began
2020

Pricing

Current retail median
$18,200
Retail value range
$16,050 - $21,975
Original MSRP range
$22,895 - $36,145
Trade-in range
$12,755 - $19,505

Ratings

Road test score
86/100
Owner satisfaction
4/5
Would buy again
70%
Reliability
2/5

Fuel economy

EPA city
27 MPG
EPA highway
35 MPG
EPA combined
30 MPG
Tested city
19 MPG
Tested highway
39 MPG
Tested overall
28 MPG
Annual fuel cost
$1,405
Cruising range
515 miles

Road tests

0-30 mph
3.4 sec
0-60 mph
8.9 sec
60-0 mph braking
131 ft
Avoidance speed
54.5 mph
Test status
Test Completed

Dimensions

Length
191 in
Width
72 in
Height
59 in
Wheelbase
108 in
Weight
3,510 lb
Maximum load
850 lb
Towing capacity
0 lb

Interior

Seating
5 people
Front head room
6.5 in
Front leg room
42.5 in
Rear head room
2 in
Rear leg room
30 in
Luggage
4+1+0

Owner feedback

Comfort
4/5
Driving
4/5
Styling
5/5
Value
3/5

Environmental impact

Air pollution score
6/10
Greenhouse gas score
6/10
SmartWay
No

Brand context

About Subaru

<p>Subaru is known for driver-friendly cars and SUVs with standard full-time all-wheel drive. Its models frequently rank near the top of Consumer Reports’ owner satisfaction and reliability ratings, making some used Subarus a good choice. Along with all-wheel drive, Subarus are known for using a “boxer” style four-cylinder engine with opposing pistons that move horizontally. The design reduces vibration and gives the vehicle a low center of gravity. Most Subarus have options like heated seats and leather upholstery. The Crosstrek and Forester are each available as a fuel-efficient hybrid. The brand’s first electric vehicle, the Solterra, is joined by the Trailseeker and Uncharted SUVs. Sports cars like the WRX and rear-drive BRZ showcase the brand’s wilder side.</p>

Vehicle ID: 20119 First published: November 19, 2020 Updated: June 4, 2026

Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.

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