Which Subaru has the best legroom?
The Subaru with the most legroom is the Ascent, especially in the second row. This article surveys Subaru’s current lineup to compare front- and rear-legroom, and to guide buyers who prioritize space for adults in the back seat or the need for a three-row family SUV.
How legroom stacks up across Subaru's current lineup
Subaru's lineup spans sedans, compact and midsize SUVs, and a three-row family SUV. Legroom varies by model and seating configuration, with the Ascent offering the most overall space thanks to its size and design, while smaller models provide comfortable but more compact space.
Quick snapshot of the lineup's legroom emphasis:
- Ascent — best overall legroom, especially in the second row; three-row configuration prioritizes adult-friendly space in the middle seats.
- Legacy — top rear legroom among Subaru sedans; comfortable for rear passengers on long trips.
- Outback — strong, well-balanced legroom in both front and second rows; roomy for a wagon/CUV.
- Forester — generous space for a compact SUV; front and second-row legroom are solid.
- Crosstrek — compact footprint means less rear legroom than larger models, but still practical for its class.
Conclusion: In the current lineup, the Ascent leads the pack for legroom overall, reflecting its purpose as a roomy 3-row family SUV. Sedans like the Legacy still offer excellent rear legroom for a non-SUV class, while the Forester and Outback provide spacious accommodations without the heft of a three-row vehicle.
Front-seat legroom
Front-seat comfort often depends on seat design as much as sheer space. Among Subarus, the largest front legroom tends to belong to the Ascent due to its long wheelbase, followed by the Legacy, Outback, and Forester in close proximity. Tall drivers often note the Ascent's generous reach to the pedals and ample knee room.
- Ascent — deepest front legroom in the lineup, supporting long drives with ample pedal clearance.
- Legacy — roomy front seat area with comfortable knee and foot space for taller drivers.
- Outback — strong front legroom that accommodates long-legged riders well.
- Forester — solid front legroom; pragmatic for daily driving and highway trips.
- Crosstrek — adequate front legroom for its compact size, but tighter than larger Subaru models.
Conclusion: If your priority is maximum front-seat space, the Ascent again stands out, with the Legacy not far behind. For most day-to-day use, any Subaru will offer comfortable front legroom.
Rear-seat legroom
The rear row is where legroom differences are most noticeable, especially for adult passengers on longer trips. The Ascent’s second row is the standout in the lineup, while the Legacy and Outback deliver generous rear seating that eases longer journeys.
- Ascent — best-in-class second-row legroom among Subarus; third row is usable for kids or shorter trips.
- Legacy — generous rear legroom for a sedan; comfortable for adults on long rides.
- Outback — generous second-row legroom; a practical choice for families and road trips.
- Forester — comfortable but slightly less rear legroom than the Outback or Legacy in some configurations.
- Crosstrek — rear legroom is the tightest among these models due to its compact footprint.
Conclusion: For rear-seat comfort, the Ascent is the clear winner, while the Legacy offers the best rear space in a traditional sedan format. The Forester and Outback strike a balance for most households.
Bottom line for buyers
Choosing the Subaru with the best legroom depends on your seating needs. If you regularly seat adults in back and need optional three-row seating, the Ascent is the best match. If you primarily need a sedan with generous rear space, the Legacy is your pick. For a space-efficient but still roomy daily driver, the Forester or Outback offers comfortable options without the extra bulk of a three-row vehicle.
Summary
Across Subaru's current lineup, the Ascent provides the most legroom, particularly in the second row and a usable third row. For sedan buyers, the Legacy offers the strongest rear-seat space, while the Outback and Forester deliver a well-balanced blend of front and rear legroom in a versatile, all-wheel-drive package. If legroom is the top criterion, start with the Ascent and test the second row for comfort, then compare it with the Legacy if you prefer a sedan.
Does the Forester or Outback have more legroom?
You'll find slightly more front headroom and legroom in the Forester. The Outback has additional space across the cabin for your shoulders in both rows. Overall cargo space is very similar, with a slight advantage for the Outback.
Which subarus have the most legroom?
Subaru Models with the Best Legroom
- 2024 Subaru Ascent. As the largest Subaru SUV, the 2024 Subaru Ascent boasts impressive legroom.
- 2024 Subaru Outback. Though the 2024 Subaru Outback doesn't have a third row, its interior actually has slightly more legroom than the 2024 Subaru Ascent.
- 2024 Subaru Forester.
What is the roomiest Subaru?
The roomiest Subaru is the Ascent, which is the only three-row model and seats up to eight passengers. It offers the most passenger volume, cargo space (up to 86.586.586.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down), and shoulder room of any Subaru model.
Subaru Ascent
- Seating: Up to eight passengers in three rows.
- Passenger volume: Up to 153.2153.2153.2 cubic feet.
- Cargo space: Up to 86.586.586.5 cubic feet with all rear seats folded down.
- Best for: Families and those who frequently need to carry multiple passengers or a lot of gear.
Which Subaru is best for tall people?
The best Subaru models for tall people are the Forester, Outback, and Ascent due to their spacious cabins and ample legroom and headroom. The Forester is praised for its excellent visibility and high front headroom (41.4 inches) and legroom (43 inches). The Outback offers slightly more legroom than the Ascent (43 inches) and is an excellent all-weather choice, while the three-row Ascent is the largest SUV, making it ideal for those who need maximum space for passengers and cargo.
Subaru Forester
- Dimensions: Features 41.4 inches of front headroom and 43 inches of front legroom.
- Visibility and Access: The tall, upright design provides excellent all-around visibility and makes it easier to get in and out, especially with the higher ground clearance of models like the Wilderness trim.
- Best for: Drivers who want a compact SUV with great visibility and easy access.
Subaru Outback
- Dimensions: Offers 40.2 inches of front headroom and 43 inches of front legroom.
- Versatility: This midsize SUV is a great choice for those who need a comfortable and capable vehicle for all-weather and all-terrain driving, according to Torque News.
- Best for: Tall drivers who want ample space and a versatile vehicle for varied conditions.
Subaru Ascent
- Dimensions: As the largest Subaru SUV, the Ascent provides impressive legroom, particularly for a three-row vehicle, according to Serra Subaru Champaign and Glassman Subaru.
- Capacity: This three-row SUV can comfortably accommodate even tall passengers in all rows.
- Best for: Tall drivers with families or those who frequently need to transport multiple passengers and cargo.
