Subaru Legacy Vs Impreza
If
you're in the market for a new midsize sedan and are a dedicated Subaru
enthusiast, make sure you conduct your own Subaru Legacy vs. Impreza
comparison. You can use this guide to give you an overview of how the 2.5-liter
Legacy and 2-liter Impreza stack up against each other in terms of performance,
safety and value.
Legacy vs Impreza Performance comparison
The 2-liter Impreza has a flat-four engine putting out 148 horsepower, which is coupled to your choice of a five-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The Impreza also features an all-wheel-drive system. Fuel economy has been boosted for the 2013 model, which is smaller and lighter than its predecessor. The Impreza has EPA fuel ratings of 25/27 mpg for the city and 33/36 mpg on the highway. The higher figures are for an Impreza fitted with CVT.
The 2.5-liter Legacy also features Subaru's famous flat-four engine, and it produces 173 horsepower. The Legacy comes with a six-speed manual transmission or a CVT. This is a slight power increase over the 2012 model, and the new CVT is reported to be more reactive. EPA fuel ratings for a Legacy fitted with CVT are 24 city mpg and 32 highway miles per gallon.
Safety features and testing comparison
A Subaru Legacy vs. Impreza comparison will reveal that both models received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick award. It will also show that both models feature the company's Vehicle Dynamic Control, which is designed to combine traction control and stability. This system complements and functions brilliantly with the all-wheel-drive system. Both models also ship with antilock brakes and a brake-override system, which kills the power when you step on the brake and gas concurrently. The Impreza includes seven air bags to the Legacy's six; the Impreza's additional one is the driver's knee air bag.
The company's new EyeSight feature combines lane-departure warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control and pre-collision braking into one system. Unfortunately, it's only available with the Legacy's top-level trim package.
Value and cost of ownership comparison
The Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Impreza ranges from $17,895 to $22,995, depending on which of the five available models and the trim package you choose. The Legacy, on the other hand, has an MSRP range of $20,295 to $28,895, depending on whether you opt for the 2.5- or 3.5-liter engine, your transmission choice and your choice of available trim package options. So, if the cost of your new vehicle is a major factor, the Impreza should look very appealing right about now.
Now that you've read this overview, you should conduct more in-depth research on each model. Check out how they compare in terms of their interior and exterior features, the range of available optional extras for each model and the level of comfort offered. When you have finished your Subaru Legacy vs. Impreza comparison, be sure to contact multiple dealerships to find the lowest price quote in your area. Then set up some test drives to make your final choice.
Alex Gabriel is a writer at Reply! with several years of digital marketing and copywriting experience. A native of Portland and graduate of the University of Oregon, Alex has a passion for writing about new cars. For more on Subaru models, see his Comparison of the Forester and Outback.
