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What are the changes in the Subaru Legacy 2022?

The Subaru Legacy 2022 is the latest iteration of the popular midsize sedan from the Japanese automaker. With a focus on safety, performance, and practicality, the 2022 Legacy offers a range of updates and improvements over its predecessor.


Key Changes in the Subaru Legacy 2022


The Subaru Legacy 2022 features several notable changes and updates compared to the previous model year:



  • Exterior Design: The 2022 Legacy boasts a refreshed exterior design, with a more sculpted and aerodynamic look. The front grille and headlights have been redesigned, giving the car a more modern and aggressive appearance.

  • Interior Upgrades: The cabin of the 2022 Legacy has been updated with new materials, improved ergonomics, and a larger infotainment display. The overall interior design has been refined to provide a more premium and sophisticated feel.

  • Powertrain Options: The 2022 Legacy continues to offer a choice between a 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine and a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated Boxer engine. Both engines have been tuned for improved performance and efficiency.

  • Safety Features: Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology is now standard across the Legacy lineup, providing advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking.

  • Connectivity and Technology: The 2022 Legacy features an updated infotainment system with a larger touchscreen display, improved voice recognition, and enhanced connectivity options, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.


These changes and updates to the Subaru Legacy 2022 aim to keep the midsize sedan competitive in the crowded market, offering a compelling blend of safety, performance, and modern technology.

What's new in the 2022 Subaru Legacy?


The base model of the Legacy gains standard 17-inch aluminum wheels for 2022, and Premium and Sport trims now come with air vents on the back of the center console for rear-seat passengers. The Sport also now comes standard with a power sunroof, blind-spot monitoring, and rear automated emergency braking.



What is the best year of the Subaru Legacy?


The best Subaru Legacy years are generally considered to be the final years of a generation, particularly 2014, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021, due to improved reliability and technology. Specific strong recommendations include the 2014 for its safety and handling improvements, and the 2020 model for its updated tech, standard safety features like EyeSight, and high reliability scores. However, the 2020-2021 models are praised for strong, long-term reliability and modern features. 
Recommended model years

  • 2014: The last year of the fifth generation, it benefited from a suspension update that improved handling and the introduction of the EyeSight safety suite. 
  • 2017-2019: These are the last years of the sixth generation, and they have received high reliability ratings from sources like Consumer Reports, making them good choices. 
  • 2020: A favorite among drivers for its updated technology, robust safety features, and improved reliability, earning a "Top Safety Pick Plus" award from the IIHS. 
  • 2021: Similar to the 2020 model, this year is noted for its advanced driver-assistance systems and overall strong performance. 

Other years to consider
  • Fourth Generation (2003-2009): Some enthusiasts point to this generation, especially the six-cylinder models, as a sweet spot for a reliable, albeit older, car. 
  • Fifth Generation (2010-2014): The later years, particularly 2014, are often recommended because they ironed out issues from the earlier years. 

Years to approach with caution
  • 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2015: CoPilot and other sources suggest avoiding these model years due to potential issues. 
  • Early fourth generation (2003-2005): Look out for potential head gasket issues on the 2.5L engines, which can occur around 120,000 to 150,000 miles. The 3.0L six-cylinder is less prone to this but is more expensive to repair. 



What is the most common problem with the Subaru Legacy?


Top Subaru Legacy Problems

  • Cooling System Problems Cause Head Gasket Failure.
  • Subaru Front O2 Sensor Recall.
  • Failure in ABS causes pump to run continuously and wear down battery.
  • Failure in ABS causes pump to run continuously and wear down battery.
  • Engine Oil May Leak From Camshaft/Crankshaft Front Seals.



Why is Subaru discontinuing the Legacy?


Subaru is discontinuing the Legacy sedan because of a market shift from passenger cars to SUVs and crossovers, combined with the company's own strategic pivot to developing more electrified and electric vehicles. Lower sales for the midsize sedan, especially compared to Subaru's popular SUVs like the Outback and Crosstrek, also played a major role in the decision.
 
Market shifts and sales performance

  • Declining sedan popularity: The overall midsize sedan market has shrunk significantly, and the Legacy's sales figures have been dwarfed by Subaru's own SUV sales. For example, in 2023, Subaru sold about 25,500 Legacies compared to over 161,000 Outbacks and 159,000 Crosstreks. 
  • Consumer preference: Shoppers are increasingly opting for SUVs and crossovers, a trend reflected in sales numbers across the industry. 

Strategic shift to EVs
  • Focus on electrification: Subaru is transitioning its lineup towards electrified and fully electric vehicles, with a goal of having eight EV models by 2028. 
  • Resource allocation: Discontinuing the Legacy frees up resources and production line space at the Indiana plant for more in-demand and strategically important models, such as the next-generation Forester, notes Torque News. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.