2023 Subaru Legacy vs Subaru Impreza Comparison : Features & Specs

Impreza and Legacy are two of Subaru's best-selling vehicles, and each comes with its own unique collection of amenities and advantages.  When deciding between the Subaru Impreza vs Legacy, it is imperative to take into account your specific needs, preferences, and top priorities in order to identify which model of car is the superior choice for your needs.

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Subaru has always achieved success. Subaru has always impressed, whether in terms of innovation, safety, or affordability. Both the Subaru Impreza and the Subaru Legacy have been successful due to their appealing design and excellent performance. When comparing the Subaru Impreza vs Legacy, it is important to remember that each model has its own set of strengths.

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If you are trying to decide which of two options is best for your needs and preferences, then you should definitely check out this comparison.

Subaru Impreza vs. Legacy: A Comprehensive Contrast

The award-winning Subaru has a roster of models that have dominated the roads since the company's founding. Let us investigate further to determine the winner between the Subaru Impreza and the Legacy.

1. Sedan vs Hatchback

The Subaru Impreza is an affordable compact car that provides a high level of both convenience and relaxation. Both a four-door sedan and a hatchback with five doors are available. However, thanks to its moderate dimensions, the Subaru Legacy is a more spacious sedan.

While the Subaru Legacy offers more interior volume, the Subaru Impreza is the more manageable choice when it comes to navigating narrow streets.

2. Engine

The Subaru Impreza vs Legacy come with a wide variety of engine options to cater to different drivers' preferences. The engines that are offered can vary by model year and by trim. Here's a rundown of the standard powertrain configurations for both makes and models:

Choices of Subaru Impreza Engines:

2.0-liter Flat-Four Engine:

This engine is commonly found in the Impreza. The Impreza's standard engine is a flat four cylinder 2.0 litre capacity engine. It's a horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 2.0 liters. It typically produces around 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, according to my most recent knowledge update in September 2021.

2.5-liter Flat-Four Engine:

In some older Impreza models and specific trim levels, you may find a larger 2.5-liter flat-four engine. Some Imprezas, especially older ones and those with more upscale trim levels, may have a more potent 2.5-liter flat-four engine. In most cases, this engine provides an additional 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.

The Impreza was made with efficiency in mind, and its engines have been fine-tuned to provide excellent gas mileage and be perfectly at home in everyday driving situations.

Subaru Legacy Engine Options:

The Legacy typically comes standard with a 2.5-liter flat-four engine. It is comparable to the Impreza's 2.5-liter engine and makes about the same amount of power and torque (around 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft). However, A 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine is available as an option on some Legacy models, including the Touring and Limited. In most cases, this engine produces 277 lb-ft of torque and 260 hp or more. It has better speed and passing ability. Moreover, the Legacy can be had with a more potent engine than its base 2.5-liter unit, but it still achieves respectable fuel economy for the class.

3. Interior Features

The interior of the Subaru Impreza is roomy, and the windows are also quite sizable between them. Because of the elevated seating position, front passengers in the Impreza have more legroom. Those debating between the Subaru Impreza and the Subaru Legacy should know that the latter offers a more spacious cabin. It is the most aesthetically pleasing vehicle in its class thanks to its low-profile roof pillars.

The Subaru Impreza has the most passenger volume, and the Subaru Legacy has the most cabin space. It is up to you to decide! You can learn the importance of a car's interior features by comparing different models. Additionally, the Subaru Impreza vs Legacy  have been recognized as two of the safest vehicles on the market. They have perfect scores on the IIHS safety rating scale. Weird, right? Both have built-in backup cameras, airbags, and adaptive headlights that follow the driver's eyes and turn signals. However, it is the Subaru Legacy that has propelled sales to unprecedented heights. The longer wheelbase and improved suspension of the Legacy make it the clear pick.

Popular models like the Subaru Impreza and Legacy offer drivers a variety of advantages. If you are trying to decide between the Subaru Impreza and the Subaru Legacy, it is vital that you take into account your individual requirements, tastes, and priorities.

4.Performance

The performance characteristics of the Subaru Impreza and Legacy vary greatly depending on the vehicle's configuration and engine. Both models have a wide range of engine options to suit a variety of requirements, but their performance characteristics are distinct in key respects.

Subaru Impreza:

1. The compact Subaru Impreza is known for its sporty driving dynamics. It is made to be a reliable and useful daily driver.
2. Engine Options: Depending on the model year and trim level, the Impreza usually comes with either a 2.0-liter flat-four engine or a 2.5-liter flat-four engine.
3. Power: The Impreza's engines usually make between 152 and 182 horsepower, with the 2.5-liter engine being the most powerful. But it is important to keep in mind that the Impreza puts fuel economy and usability ahead of speed.
4. All-Wheel Drive: The Impreza comes with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, which improves traction and stability in different driving conditions.

Subaru Legacy:

1. The Legacy is a midsize sedan that offers a more comfortable and sophisticated ride than the Impreza.  It is crafted specifically for relaxing travel over extended distances.
2. Engine Options: Depending on the trim level, the Legacy usually has more powerful engine options, like a 2.5-liter flat-four engine or a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine.
3. Power: Compared to the Impreza, the engines in the Legacy have more horsepower, and the turbocharged engine gives even better performance. The exact amount of power can change, but it is usually between 182 and 260+ horsepower.
4. All-Wheel Drive: Like the Impreza, the Legacy comes with Subaru's standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which makes the car more stable and easy to control, especially in bad weather.

The Subaru Impreza, in a nutshell, places a greater emphasis on practicability, gas mileage, and nimbleness, which positions it as an option that is well-suited for driving in the city and making daily commutes. The Subaru Legacy, on the other hand, provides a driving experience that is more refined and comfortable, in addition to offering more powerful engine options. As a result, it is a better option for individuals who place a higher priority on a smooth and comfortable ride, particularly when driving for longer distances or on the highway. Your decision should be based on the levels of performance that are important to you as well as how you intend to use the vehicle.

5.Technology 

The Subaru Impreza and the Subaru Legacy both come standard with the Starlink infotainment system, but beyond that, the available technologies can change depending on the trim level and the year of the vehicle. Here's a comparison of the technology features you might find in both models:

1. System of Information and Entertainment:

Depending on the trim level and options, the size of the touchscreen infotainment system that comes standard in both models can range anywhere from 6.5 inches to 11.6 inches.

The system is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing for a seamless integration of smartphones. This gives you access to the apps, navigation, and music stored on your phone through the interface of the vehicle.

1. Audio System:

Subaru offers various audio systems in both the Impreza and Legacy, including premium options like Harman Kardon audio. In order to provide a better listening experience, higher trim levels typically include a greater number of speakers as well as more sophisticated audio features.

1. Driver Assistance and Safety Technology:

Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is usually standard or available on higher trims of both the Impreza and the Legacy. Features such as lane departure and sway warning, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control are included in this package.

1. Instrument Cluster and Driver Information Display:

Both models have a screen for the driver that shows important information about the car. This screen can show information about fuel efficiency, navigation, and safety systems.

The Legacy's upper-tier trims might include a more capacious and sophisticated instrument cluster. Some Impreza and Legacy models may have wireless smartphone charging, depending on the trim level.

It is worth keeping in mind that certain technological amenities may not be available in all markets or for all model years. Therefore, it is advised to check the most recent technical specifications and go to a dealership to investigate the various technological features offered in the Impreza and Legacy models sold there. In addition, Subaru tends to refresh its tech packages every few years, so the features available on one model year may not be the same as on another.

6.Fuel Efficiency

When deciding between the Subaru Impreza vs Legacy, fuel economy is an important thing to think about. Most of the time, small cars like the Impreza use less gas than midsize sedans like the Legacy. But the fuel economy of each model can be different depending on the engine, transmission, and other things. I will give a general comparison of their gas mileage below:

Subaru Impreza:

• The Subaru Impreza usually gets good gas mileage for a small car. This is because it is smaller and lighter than most compact cars. 
• The Impreza's gas mileage depends on things like the engine and whether or not it has a manual transmission or a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
•  Depending on the trim level and AWD option, the Impreza with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and CVT got between 28 and 36 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 36 to 38 mpg on the highway.
• Different engines, like the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, may have a small effect on how well the Impreza uses gas.

Subaru Legacy:

• As a midsize sedan, the Subaru Legacy usually gets a little less gas mileage than the Impreza, but it is still competitive in its class.
• The Legacy can get different gas mileage depending on the engine and whether or not it has the standard AWD or the optional turbocharged engine.
• Depending on the trim level, the Legacy with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and AWD got about 24-27 mpg in the city and 32-35 mpg on the highway.
• If you choose the more powerful 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which is available in higher trim levels, your gas mileage may be a little worse.
  

7. Price

The Subaru Impreza and Legacy have different starting prices that can change depending on the year, trim level, and number of extras. To give you an idea of the typical price difference between these two Subaru models, however, I can provide a general comparison of their price ranges.

Please be aware that market demand, incentives, and dealer discounts can all cause automobile prices to fluctuate over time. Prices also may differ depending on the dealership you visit.

Subaru Impreza:

• The Impreza is commonly positioned as Subaru's more budget-friendly offering. It has a lower starting price than the Legacy and is a more affordable compact car.
• A base model Subaru Impreza can be had for between $18,000 and $23,000.

Subaru Legacy:

• The Legacy is a midsize sedan, and because of its larger size and more luxurious interior, it typically costs more than the Impreza.
• In the range of $22,000 and $25,000, you can purchase a Subaru Legacy base model.  

Please note that these are just ballpark figures for the starting models and that the actual prices may have changed since we first published them. Both the Impreza and the Legacy can have vastly different final prices depending on factors like the selection of trim levels and added accessories.

You can get the most accurate and up-to-date information about prices by going to the official Subaru website or calling your local Subaru dealership. Obtain up-to-date pricing and details on current discounts and special offers by contacting them. When calculating the total price of each car, it is important to factor in things like financing, trade-in value, and discounts.

The Impreza is a more wallet-friendly option for those interested in an all-wheel-drive Subaru than the Legacy.

8.Safety

Subaru, manufacturer of the Impreza and the Legacy, prioritises safety in all of its automobiles. The Subaru Impreza and Legacy are equipped with numerous safety features and technologies to ensure the well-being of their occupants. See how they stack up in terms of security features below:

A.Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD):

Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system is standard on both the Impreza and the Legacy, increasing the vehicles' stability and traction in slippery conditions like rain and snow.

B.Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology:

Most Impreza and Legacy trim levels come with Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology as standard equipment or as an optional upgrade. These high-tech safety features consist of: 

• Your vehicle's speed will be automatically adjusted by adaptive cruise control to keep a predetermined distance from the car in front of you.
• Front-end collisions can be avoided or had their impact mitigated with the help of pre-collision braking systems.
• The vehicle's lane departure and sway warning system will sound an alarm if the driver begins to stray from their lane without first signalling a turn.
  

C.Additional Safety Features:
Several optional safety features, which may be available on both models, are as follows:

• Drivers can be made aware of vehicles in their blind spots thanks to blind-spot monitoring.
• When leaving a parking spot or driveway in reverse, the Rear Cross-Traffic Alert will sound to let you know that other vehicles are approaching from behind.
• Automatic Emergency Braking in Reverse: If an obstacle is detected while reversing, the brakes will apply automatically.
• With High Beam Assist, your high beams will automatically dim so as not to blind oncoming traffic.

D.Crash Test Ratings:

Both the Impreza and the Legacy have performed exceptionally well in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Ratings may vary slightly from one year's model to the next and among trim levels.

Despite the fact that both the Impreza and the Legacy have excellent safety features, it is worth noting that the Legacy, thanks to its larger size and more advanced technology offerings in higher trim levels, may provide some additional safety advantages. However, the Impreza is still a very safe compact car on its own.

Subaru Impreza vs. Legacy: Which Should You Choose?

When deciding between the Subaru Impreza vs. Legacy, consider your priorities. If you crave agility, fuel efficiency, and city-friendly features, the Impreza is a stellar choice. On the other hand, if you value space, luxury, and a smooth highway ride, the Legacy won't disappoint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the Subaru Impreza off-road?

Yes, the Subaru Impreza's all-wheel-drive system makes it suitable for light off-road adventures. However, for more rugged terrain, you might want to consider the Subaru Outback or Forester.

Is the Legacy more expensive to maintain than the Impreza?

Generally, the Legacy's larger size and more sophisticated features may lead to slightly higher maintenance costs compared to the Impreza. However, these costs can vary based on factors like usage and location.

Do both models come with all-wheel drive?

Yes, both the Subaru Impreza and Legacy come standard with all-wheel drive, making them well-suited for various weather conditions.

Which model has better resale value?

Typically, Subaru vehicles, including the Impreza and Legacy, have good resale value due to their reliability and popularity. However, specific resale values can vary based on factors like mileage and condition.

Conclusion

The success and influence of the Subaru Impreza vs Legacy on the market should help you make your decision. Both vehicles are worthy of consideration when making a purchase.

The Impreza is a great choice if you need a compact car for commuting and running errands. The Legacy may be preferable if you need extra room, prefer a cushier ride, or frequently embark on lengthy interstate excursions. 

Consider your needs and budget before deciding on a mode of transportation, and be aware of the differences mentioned above. The Subaru Legacy is more expensive than the Subaru Impreza.