As we bid adieu to the Subaru Legacy, we find ourselves reflecting on a legacy—not just of the car, but of the journey it has taken over the past 36 years. Launched in North America in 1989, the Legacy may not have basked in the glory of rally stardom like its cousin, the Impreza WRX STI, but it certainly carved out a niche as a reliable companion for those navigating inclement weather and challenging road conditions. Unfortunately, it seems that consumer preferences have shifted, with many gravitating toward crossovers—particularly the Outback, celebrated for its generous cargo capacity and elevated driving position. Thus, Subaru has announced that 2025 will mark the final year of the Legacy’s production—a bittersweet conclusion to a storied chapter. 

What’s particularly disheartening is the lack of a commemorative special edition or distinctive color option to honor its departure. Instead, we’re left with a typical Legacy Touring XT, the top-of-the-line variant among five available models, with the Base model starting at a competitive $24,895.  

Turbo Prowls

The Legacy received its last significant refresh in 2023, which included an all-new front-end design, an upgraded EyeSight safety system with enhanced assist technologies, and a sprightly turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four-cylinder engine. While it’s always a bit sad to see a naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine retire, the new turbo-four steps into the spotlight with surprising aplomb. 

This turbocharged engine boasts 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, delivering a commendable performance punch. However, it’s paired with a continuously variable transmission, which can sometimes feel like a reluctant dance partner. The performance boost arrives more in the mid-range, making the initial acceleration feel less like a sprint and more like a casual jog. That said, the Legacy manages a respectable 0-60 mph in about 6.5 seconds, and when you’re cruising at 60 mph and need to overtake, it displays an impressive ability to surge from 50 to 70 mph with surprising gusto. Regrettably, this turbo engine is only available in the top-tier Sport and Touring XT trims, while the entry-level Base, Premium, and Limited models settle for a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which, while notable, is unlikely to win any awards for performance. 

LIKES: decent turbo engine, standard all-wheel drive.

Reflecting on our youth can be a bittersweet exercise. I still remember the first time I laid eyes on the fourth-generation Subaru Legacy back in 2005. It struck me as the quintessential star athlete—sporty, confident, always ready for an adventure. But, much like our youthful dreams, cars age, gain weight, and occasionally become a bit lazy. This current generation of the Legacy may boast impressive power, but it handles like a tired single parent. And rides with such softness you may forget you’re driving for a moment.

Chic Today, Vintage Tomorrow

Despite the Legacy nearing the end of its production run, the interior maintains a somewhat modern look with a touch of premium elegance. Our Touring XT model featured leather upholstery that extended onto the dashboard, elevating the overall ambiance. The 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system is standard on all models except for the entry-level Base, which is equipped with a more modest 7-inch screen. However, despite its size, the technology behind it is beginning to show its age, often responding with delays and requiring a scavenger hunt for options like heated seats. Once connected to wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, however, the interface becomes more user-friendly, showcasing a crisper display. Despite these quirks, the interior remains a comfortable space, befitting its mid-sized sedan classification. There’s ample room for all occupants, with rear passengers enjoying the luxury of heated seats. 

DISLIKES: Jarring start/stop system, cluttered infotainment interface. Its final curtain call lacks a special edition.  

Subaru’s EyeSight safety system has also received an update, introducing new assist features. However, there’s something amusingly frantic about its adaptive cruise control system. Even with it set it to a level 3 distance, and the Legacy accelerates with an eagerness that could be mistaken for road rage.  

The mid-size sedan market is dwindling faster than a poorly managed hedge fund, with no signs of new contenders on the horizon. Sedans like the Chevrolet Malibu, Volkswagen Passat, Chrysler 200, and Mazda 6 have all been phased out in recent years. The Subaru Legacy stands as the first sedan to offer standard all-wheel drive, making its exit all the more poignant, especially given its starting price is just under $25,000. 

2025 Subaru Legacy XT Touring

• Staring Price: $24,895 (Base)
• As-Tested: $39,481

Performance: 

• Engine: 2.4-Liter Turbocharged Boxer Flat Four-Cylinder
• Horsepower/Torque: 260-HP / 277lbs-ft
• Transmission: CVT Automatic
• Drivetrain: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
• EPA MPG: 23-city / 31-highway  / 26-combined 
• As-Tested MPG: 25.0-MPG Combined (284-mile test)