Was 2017 a good year for Subaru Legacy?
In brief, 2017 was a solid year for the Subaru Legacy, delivering strong safety features and all-wheel drive, along with a comfortable ride; it didn't revolutionize the market or become a sales standout, but it remained a dependable option in the midsize sedan segment.
The 2017 model year continued Subaru's emphasis on safety, practicality, and all-weather capability. While rivals offered sharper styling and sportier handling, the Legacy held appeal for families and commuters who value predictable performance, roomy interior, and standard AWD in most trims.
Strengths that defined 2017
The following highlights summarize the main factors that defined the 2017 Legacy.
- Strong safety package highlighted by the available EyeSight driver-assist suite and favorable crash-test results.
- Standard all-wheel drive across the Legacy lineup, contributing to confident handling in rain, snow, and ice.
- Comfortable ride with a spacious, quiet cabin suitable for family duties and long highway trips.
- Competitive value within the midsize sedan class, with a reputation for reliability and longevity.
- Updated infotainment options, including a modern touchscreen interface and smartphone integration on many trims.
These characteristics collectively reinforced the Legacy's reputation as a safe, sensible choice for drivers needing all-weather capability and a comfortable, practical family sedan.
Challenges and areas for improvement
But no model year is without tradeoffs. Here are common criticisms raised about the 2017 Legacy.
- Engine and performance tradeoffs, with the 2.5-liter engine paired to a CVT that some drivers found buzzy during stronger acceleration.
- Driving dynamics tended toward comfort over sportiness, leaving some enthusiasts seeking more engaging handling.
- Interior materials and perceived cabin upgrade levels lagged behind some rivals at similar price points.
- Fuel economy, while respectable, did not lead the segment in efficiency and varied with wheel size and driving style.
Overall, the year offered a balanced package, with safety, space, and all-weather practicality outweighing compromises in sportiness or interior polish for many buyers.
Was it a good year overall?
Verdict: For customers prioritizing safety, all-wheel-drive practicality, and a stable, reliable family sedan, 2017 was a favorable year for the Legacy. It reinforced Subaru's core strengths and offered solid value in a competitive market. If sportier handling or a more premium interior were priorities, some rivals might have a clearer edge in those areas.
Performance versus rivals
Compared with top competitors such as the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Mazda6, and Nissan Altima, the Legacy's strengths were its all-wheel-drive capability, generous interior space, and robust safety features, while some rivals offered sharper handling, quicker acceleration, or more premium materials at higher price points.
Summary
In summary, 2017 was a solid, dependable year for the Subaru Legacy. It didn't spark a redesign or dominate the midsize sedan market, but it delivered mature safety features, reassuring all-weather capability, and a comfortable, practical package that appealed to families and commuters seeking a durable and reliable ride.
