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The Legacy does not fit the normal family sedan convention.
It is relatively small, relatively noisy and stiff-riding, and comes
standard with all-wheel-drive rather than front-wheel-drive. If you are
looking for all-weather traction at this price point, there is no better
choice because there is no other choice. (AWD is now offered on versions of
the Ford Fusion, but only versions priced well above the Legacy and this
group’s price range.) It also offers good interior quality and sharp
steering. But unless you are looking for all-wheel-drive, or are interested
in the combination of quality with agility, you don’t need to put up with
the Legacy’s shortcomings or with its relatively high price.
The Legacy has a firm and
controlled ride, though more road imperfections can filter through than in
the softer-tuned cars in this class. The car handles very well; the
controlled body roll, the responsive, communicative steering, and the nimble
feel make this one of the most fun midsize sedans. The weight of the
all-wheel-drive system holds back the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder, it could use
additional power in virtually every circumstance despite a recent upgrade.
The higher-priced turbocharged version of that engine is much quicker. The
engine is noisy under hard acceleration, and sounds a bit harsh. Road noise
is also prevalent. Gas mileage is also diminished by the all-wheel-drive
system, but is still reasonable by this group’s standards.
Inside, the Legacy’s
front seats are a bit low and there could be more headroom, but they are
firm, well-shaped, and very comfortable. The rear is cramped, but the seat
is well-shaped.
 The
attractive interior uses high-quality materials that fit together very well.
The gauges are clear, but some instruments could be larger. Drivers sit
comfortably, and can see out well. Rear seat entry/exit is complicated by
narrow door openings and small footwells. The trunk is smaller than that in
most compact cars.
The Legacy reviewed here
came in at $20,794, with satellite radio and its standard equipment, which
includes all-wheel-drive, active head restraints, and alloy wheels.
Overall,
the Legacy is not the roomiest car in this class, nor the cheapest, nor the
most comfortable-riding. But it brings a premium feel to this price range,
the feel of an upscale sport sedan. With nimble handling, a high-quality
interior, and a rare all-wheel-drive system, it feels like it costs a lot
more than $21,000, but for most people shopping in this class, there are
better choices.
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