Hey guys! So, you're eyeing up a 2021 Subaru Legacy, huh? Smart move! This car has been a solid contender in the midsize sedan market for ages, and the 2021 model year brought some sweet updates. But like any ride, it's not perfect. Let's dive deep into the 2021 Subaru Legacy pros and cons so you can make an informed decision. We're going to break it all down, from what makes it shine to where it might fall a little short. Whether you're a seasoned Subaru fan or just Subaru-curious, this is the lowdown you need. We'll cover everything from its legendary all-wheel-drive prowess to its interior comfort, tech features, and how it stacks up against the competition. Get ready to get the full picture, folks!

The Upside: Why the 2021 Subaru Legacy is a Great Buy

Alright, let's start with the good stuff, because trust me, there's plenty of it with the 2021 Subaru Legacy. The all-wheel-drive system is probably its biggest selling point, and for good reason. Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive comes standard on every single trim level of the 2021 Legacy. This isn't some optional add-on you find on pricier versions; it's baked in from the ground up. What does this mean for you, the driver? It means superior traction and stability in virtually any driving condition. We're talking rain, snow, ice, gravel roads – this car handles it with confidence. Forget those white-knuckle moments when the weather turns foul; the Legacy just grips the road. It makes driving in less-than-ideal conditions feel so much more secure and less stressful. Seriously, if you live in an area with harsh winters or frequently encounter slippery roads, the standard AWD is a game-changer. It's not just about safety, though; it also contributes to a more engaging driving experience, even on dry pavement, by improving cornering stability and overall handling. This commitment to standard AWD is something many competitors simply can't match without forcing you into a higher trim or a different model entirely.

Beyond the wheels, the safety features on the 2021 Legacy are seriously impressive. Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is available on most trims and standard on some. This suite includes features like adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. These aren't just buzzwords; they actively help prevent accidents and reduce driver fatigue on long journeys. Having these advanced safety systems working in the background gives you incredible peace of mind, knowing the car is looking out for you. In safety tests, the Legacy has consistently performed very well, earning top marks from organizations like the IIHS. This focus on safety makes it a fantastic choice for families, commuters, or anyone who prioritizes their well-being on the road. The combination of standard AWD and comprehensive safety tech really sets the Legacy apart in its class, offering a level of security and capability that's hard to beat.

Now, let's talk about the interior and comfort. Subaru has really stepped up its game here. The cabin of the 2021 Legacy is surprisingly spacious and comfortable, especially for a midsize sedan. The seats are supportive, offering good lumbar support for those longer drives. Materials quality is also a step up from previous generations, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas that make the cabin feel more upscale. You'll find plenty of room for passengers in both the front and rear seats, with ample legroom and headroom. The trunk is also generously sized, capable of swallowing luggage, groceries, or sports equipment with ease. Subaru has also done a commendable job with noise insulation, so road and wind noise are kept to a minimum, contributing to a more serene driving experience. It's the kind of car where you can have a conversation without shouting, even at highway speeds. For daily commutes or family road trips, the comfort and quietness of the Legacy's cabin are significant advantages. It feels solid, well-built, and thoughtfully designed, making it a pleasant place to spend your time.

And what about infotainment and tech? The 2021 Legacy comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen, but you can upgrade to a massive 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen, which is truly impressive. This larger screen controls most of the car's functions, and while it takes a little getting used to, it's visually striking and offers features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration standard on most trims. The system is generally responsive and easy to navigate once you get the hang of it. The larger screen gives the interior a modern, high-tech feel. Subaru also offers a great Harman Kardon audio system on higher trims, which delivers crisp and powerful sound for your music. USB ports are plentiful, ensuring you and your passengers can keep your devices charged on the go. The integration with smartphones is seamless, allowing for easy access to navigation apps, music streaming, and hands-free calling. This tech package makes the Legacy a connected and convenient car for the modern driver, blending functionality with a sleek presentation.

Finally, let's not forget fuel economy. For a car with standard all-wheel drive, the 2021 Legacy offers pretty respectable gas mileage. The 2.5-liter engine, which is the base option, delivers an EPA-estimated 27 MPG city and 35 MPG highway. Even the more powerful 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, found in the XT trims, achieves a commendable 24 MPG city and 32 MPG highway. These figures are competitive with, and often better than, many front-wheel-drive competitors. This means you can enjoy the benefits of AWD without a significant penalty at the gas pump, making it an economical choice for daily driving and long-distance travel. It’s a smart balance between performance, capability, and efficiency that many buyers will appreciate.

The Downsides: Where the 2021 Subaru Legacy Could Be Better

Now, let's switch gears and talk about the areas where the 2021 Subaru Legacy might leave you wanting a bit more. While Subaru has made strides, the base engine performance can feel a bit underwhelming for some drivers. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 182 horsepower. It's adequate for everyday driving – getting you from point A to point B smoothly – but when you need to accelerate quickly, like merging onto a busy highway or passing slower traffic, it can feel strained. It's not sluggish, per se, but it lacks that punchy responsiveness that some rivals offer. If you're looking for a more dynamic driving experience, you'll likely want to opt for the turbocharged XT models, which offer significantly more power. However, those models come with a higher price tag and slightly lower fuel economy. So, if spirited acceleration is high on your list, the base Legacy might feel a little tame. It's a compromise for the excellent fuel economy and standard AWD, but it's definitely something to consider if you often find yourself needing quick bursts of speed. The continuously variable transmission (CVT), while generally smooth, can sometimes drone at higher RPMs, further contributing to the feeling of less-than-thrilling acceleration.

Another point of contention for some is the infotainment system's learning curve, particularly the larger 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen. While it looks modern and houses a lot of features, Subaru has integrated many physical controls into this screen. This means you might find yourself frequently navigating menus to adjust things like climate control or audio volume, which can be distracting while driving. In contrast, many competitors still offer dedicated physical buttons and knobs for these frequently used functions, which are often easier and safer to operate without taking your eyes off the road. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto help streamline things, the overall user interface, especially for HVAC controls, can be less intuitive than simpler systems. It’s a trade-off between a sleek, modern look and straightforward, tactile functionality. Some users find it takes a while to adapt, and even then, might prefer the more traditional approach found in other vehicles. It’s a subjective point, but one that many reviewers and owners have noted as a drawback.

While the interior is generally comfortable, the exterior styling of the 2021 Legacy isn't exactly setting the world on fire. It's a bit conservative, some might even say bland. Compared to some of its more stylish rivals, the Legacy can come across as a bit plain or uninspired. It’s a design that prioritizes function over form, which is typical Subaru, but it might not appeal to buyers who want their car to make a bolder statement. The lines are clean, and it’s certainly not unattractive, but it doesn’t have the sporty or aggressive flair that some competitors boast. If you appreciate Subaru's understated approach, you'll be fine, but if you're looking for head-turning aesthetics, the Legacy might not be your first pick. It’s a practical design, but it could benefit from a bit more visual excitement to match its capable performance and features.

Furthermore, while the ride quality is generally smooth and composed, especially on the highway, some drivers have noted that it can feel a bit less refined over rougher pavement compared to some competitors. Potholes and choppy road surfaces can sometimes send noticeable impacts into the cabin. It's not uncomfortable by any means, but it doesn't quite achieve the same level of plushness or isolation from road imperfections that you might find in certain rivals like a Toyota Camry or Honda Accord. The suspension is tuned for stability, which is great for its AWD capabilities, but this can sometimes come at the expense of ultimate ride comfort. If you live in an area with particularly poor road conditions, this is something you might want to test drive extensively to see if it meets your personal comfort standards. It’s a minor quibble for most, but worth noting if ride comfort is a top priority.

Finally, while Subaru's infotainment system has improved, the overall cabin materials and refinement could still be better in certain areas. While there are soft-touch materials on the dash and doors, some of the lower plastics can feel a bit hard and less premium than what you might expect in this segment. Competitors like the Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata often offer a more luxurious feel in their cabins, with higher-quality plastics, more thoughtful trim options, and a generally more upscale ambiance. The Legacy's interior is functional and comfortable, but it doesn't quite reach the same level of sophistication or perceived quality as some of its key rivals. For a car that often comes with advanced tech features and a solid reputation, a slightly more premium interior feel would have elevated it further. It’s a subtle difference, but one that can matter to buyers looking for a bit more luxury in their daily driver.

The Verdict: Is the 2021 Subaru Legacy Right for You?

So, guys, after weighing the 2021 Subaru Legacy pros and cons, who is this car really for? If you prioritize standard all-wheel drive, top-notch safety features, and a comfortable, practical interior, then the 2021 Legacy is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for drivers in snowy climates, those who value security above all else, and anyone looking for a reliable, no-nonsense sedan that can handle a bit of everything. The fuel efficiency is also a big win, especially considering the standard AWD. It's a sensible, capable, and safe vehicle that offers a lot of value.

However, if you're seeking thrilling acceleration, cutting-edge interior design with super-intuitive controls, or a car that turns heads with its styling, you might want to look elsewhere. The base engine is adequate but not exciting, the large touchscreen can be a bit fiddly, and the styling is definitely on the conservative side. It’s a car that excels in practicality and safety, sometimes at the expense of flair and outright performance.

Ultimately, the 2021 Subaru Legacy is a fantastic car for the right person. It offers a compelling blend of capability, safety, and comfort that makes it a standout in its segment, particularly for those who need or want the confidence of all-wheel drive. Do your homework, take a test drive, and see if its strengths align with your priorities. Happy driving!