2020 Subaru Legacy

Pros: Standard all-wheel drive; interior room; wide range of safety features

Cons: Base engine has only adequate performance; turbo engine restricted to topline models; engine stop/start feature can feel abrupt

CG Says: Subaru’s midsize sedan is redesigned for 2020, gaining new styling, a host of new technology features, and an available turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. As before, the Subaru Legacy shares its basic platform with Subaru’s SUV-flavored Outback midsize wagon, which is also redesigned for 2020. The Legacy model lineup is revamped to ascend through Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, Limited XT, and Touring XT models. A new 260-horsepower turbocharged 2.4-liter flat 4-cylinder engine replaces the previous V6 in topline XT models. The base engine remains a 2.5-liter flat four, although the revised engine now has seven more horsepower for a total of 182. Both engines are paired with a CVT automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. New available features include an 11.6-inch “tablet-style” vertically oriented touchscreen and Subaru’s DriverFocus distraction mitigation system, which sounds an alert if an instrument panel camera senses the driver isn’t looking at the road. Standard on all models is Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, a head-up display, adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering function, and lane-keep assist.

Though the new Subaru Legacy continues to be overshadowed by the more popular Outback wagon in Subaru’s lineup, it’s a pleasant, competitive midsize sedan that offers a spacious interior with high-quality materials, a comfortable ride, predictable handling, and good fuel economy for an all-wheel-drive car. A long list of up-to-the-minute available comfort, safety, and technology features is another strong point. The base engine has adequate performance; the turbo is much stronger, but it exacts a significant price penalty. However, the Legacy is a good value overall—especially in northern climes where its standard all-wheel drive is appreciated.