What years are best for Subaru Legacy?
For used-car shoppers, the Subaru Legacy typically offers the best balance of reliability, safety features, and value in the mid-to-late 2010s and the current generation. In practice, the clearest picks are the 2015–2019 models and the 2020–2023 models, which bring stronger tech and refined drivetrains while remaining affordable to own compared with newer vehicles.
Understanding what makes a year stand out
Model year quality for the Legacy depends on updates to safety technology, transmission design, drivetrain reliability, and interior refinement. Over time Subaru has improved EyeSight driver-assistance features, refined the continuously variable transmission (CVT), and upgraded cabin materials. As with any used car, the condition and maintenance history often matter more than the calendar year, so it’s wise to verify service records and obtain a pre-purchase inspection.
Best overall model years
Below is a concise look at the two most reliable and commonly recommended year ranges for the Legacy, based on reliability data and owner experiences up through 2024–2025.
- 2015–2019 (sixth generation): This period brought notable safety feature enhancements (including EyeSight on more trims), improved ride quality, and generally strong reliability scores. These years strike a solid balance between modern tech and ownership costs.
- 2020–2023 (seventh generation): The newest design cycle, with upgraded interior, infotainment, and safety tech, offering the best chance of long-term reliability and newer features, though price is higher than older models.
These ranges are widely regarded as the strongest choices for buyers seeking reliable, feature-rich Legacy models with favorable resale value.
What to know by generation
Sixth generation overview (2015–2019)
The 2015–2019 Legacy is widely favored for its matured platform, stronger safety technology, and improved interior feel. This generation benefited from ongoing refinements to the CVT, improved steering and ride comfort, and better overall reliability ratings in consumer surveys. If you’re shopping in this window, you’ll typically find well-equipped trims with EyeSight, solid all-wheel-drive performance, and reasonable maintenance costs compared with earlier, more aged models.
Seventh generation overview (2020–present)
The 2020–present Legacy represents Subaru’s latest design language with more robust safety suites, enhanced cabin connectivity, and incremental powertrain improvements. These models generally offer improved fuel economy, quieter cabins, and updated driver-assistance technology. Prices are higher than mid-2010s models, but you’re paying for the newest hardware and longer residual value.
Earlier generations overview (1990s–2014)
Earlier Legacies—starting in 1989 through the mid-2010s—can be compelling on price but require careful scrutiny. These years may have higher maintenance costs due to aging components, and some Legacy engines (notably the early 2.5-liter variants) earned a reputation for head-gasket and timing-belt-related issues. If considering an older model, a thorough mechanical inspection and a documented maintenance history are essential, and you should be prepared for potentially higher ownership costs over time.
What to check when buying a used Legacy
Before pulling the trigger, use this checklist to assess potential purchases and reduce the risk of surprise repairs.
- Maintenance history: Look for regular service, especially timing/drive system maintenance, CVT fluid changes, and any major engine or transmission work.
- Recalls and campaigns: Verify that all applicable recalls have been completed and that campaign work is documented, particularly for safety and drivetrain updates.
- Transmission health: If buying a CVT-equipped model, check for smooth acceleration, absence of shudder or slipping, and confirm service records for CVT fluid changes.
- Safety features: Confirm the functioning of EyeSight and other driver-assistance features, as failures can be costly to repair and may affect insurance.
- Inspection specifics: Have a trusted mechanic inspect for head-gasket concerns on older 2.5L engines, rust around the underbody and wheel wells, and signs of prior accident repair.
With careful screening, buyers can find a Legacy that pairs the brand’s all-wheel-drive practicality with the reliability expected from a well-maintained model year.
Summary
For most shoppers, the 2015–2019 Legacy represents the best all-around value and reliability, combining mature safety features with solid ownership costs. If you want the latest tech and the longest potential lifespan, the 2020–2023 models are the strongest contenders, though they command higher prices. Across all years, the key to a trouble-free ownership experience is a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection and a well-documented maintenance history, especially regarding transmission care and known engine concerns on older 2.5-liter variants.
