The Legacy of the Subaru Legacy
After an illustrious 35-year run, the Subaru Legacy, a pioneering midsize sedan that revolutionized the accessibility of all-wheel drive, is bidding adieu. The final Legacy will gracefully roll off the assembly lines at Subaru of Indiana Automotive in 2025, marking the end of an era for this trailblazing vehicle.
Trailblazing AWD
The Legacy played a pivotal role in popularizing all-wheel drive in an affordable consumer package, dispelling misconceptions about AWD along the way. Initially criticized for being heavy and complex, Subaru's simple yet robust viscous center differential system in manual transmission models, and a sophisticated computer-controlled AWD system in automatics, helped overcome these biases. Eventually, AWD became standard across Subaru's lineup, except for sports cars like the BRZ. Additionally, the Legacy's near-universal use of boxer four-cylinder engines provided not only another unique selling point but also a lower center of gravity for enhanced stability.
A Legacy of Consistency
While the Legacy may not have always been the most thrilling option, its 2024 model, for instance, stands out for its exceptional safety features, confident traction, and smooth ride, earning it the fifth spot in our midsize sedan rankings. Subaru enthusiasts, however, could find excitement in the Legacy through sporty turbocharged models, echoing the thrill of watching Colin McRae's Group A Legacy RS tear through WRC stages. Over the years, the Legacy offered various flat-six and turbo models, including the fourth-generation Spec B, catering to those seeking a more exhilarating driving experience.
An American Success Story
Throughout its six generations, all 1.3 million U.S.-bound Legacys were crafted at the Indiana facility, highlighting its significance as an American success story of local production and community investment. However, Subaru has decided to discontinue the Legacy due to shifting consumer preferences toward SUVs (like the Outback, essentially a raised and modified Legacy wagon variant) and EVs. Subaru plans to introduce eight EV models by 2028. Indiana, Subaru's sole U.S. facility, has production limitations, leading to a constant shuffle of production between Indiana and Japan based on market demands. Notably, the Impreza ceased production in Indiana in May 2023, moving back to Japan, while Indiana currently produces the Crosstrek, Ascent, Outback, and the Legacy (for now).
Legacy of Value
One of the reasons the Legacy will be missed is its affordability. In 2024, with a starting price of $26,016, it remains the most economical AWD sedan, following the discontinuation of the even more budget-friendly Impreza sedan. Even the base models offer AWD and ample room, earning it an IIHS Top Safety Pick rating. Moreover, the base 2.5-liter flat-four engine returns an impressive 35 mpg on the freeway without any electrification.
Looking Ahead
It's challenging to envision the Outback entirely filling the void left by the Legacy, especially given its positioning as an SUV with a starting price about $4,000 higher than the Legacy. Subaru will undoubtedly face challenges in filling this gap in its lineup, especially considering the Legacy's sales figures of 25,510 units in 2023 compared to the Outback's 161,814 and Crosstrek's 159,193. However, many Legacy enthusiasts may find solace in migrating to other models in Subaru's lineup, which could ultimately be more profitable for the brand.
Legacy: A Fond Farewell
As we bid farewell to the Subaru Legacy, we celebrate its legacy of innovation, reliability, and affordability. It leaves behind a lasting impact on the automotive landscape, forever remembered as a trailblazer that paved the way for others to follow.
