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Why did Subaru stop making the Legacy?

Subaru, the Japanese automaker known for its all-wheel-drive vehicles, made the decision to discontinue its popular Legacy sedan in the United States market in 2020. This move was part of a broader strategic shift for the company, as it focused on expanding its lineup of crossover and SUV models to better align with consumer preferences.


Declining Sedan Sales


The primary reason Subaru stopped making the Legacy in the U.S. was the declining demand for traditional sedans. Consumers have been increasingly gravitating towards larger, more versatile vehicles like crossovers and SUVs, which offer more cargo space, higher ride heights, and a perceived sense of safety. This shift in consumer preferences has led to a significant drop in sedan sales across the automotive industry, and the Legacy was no exception.


Subaru's Shift to Crossovers and SUVs


In response to the changing market, Subaru made a strategic decision to focus its resources on developing and promoting its lineup of crossover and SUV models, such as the Outback, Ascent, and Forester. These vehicles have become the backbone of Subaru's sales in the U.S., accounting for a significant portion of the company's overall volume. By discontinuing the Legacy, Subaru was able to redirect its efforts and investments towards these more popular and profitable segments of the market.


Maintaining Brand Identity


Another factor in Subaru's decision to stop making the Legacy was the need to maintain a cohesive brand identity. Subaru has long been associated with its all-wheel-drive, adventure-oriented vehicles, and the Legacy, as a traditional sedan, did not necessarily align with this brand image. By streamlining its lineup to focus on crossovers and SUVs, Subaru was able to reinforce its brand identity and better connect with its target customers.


Future Outlook


While the Legacy is no longer available in the U.S. market, it continues to be sold in other parts of the world, including Japan and Canada. Subaru's decision to discontinue the Legacy in the U.S. reflects the broader industry trends and the company's strategic focus on meeting the evolving needs and preferences of American consumers. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether Subaru will revisit the sedan segment in the future or maintain its emphasis on crossovers and SUVs.

How long will a 2024 Subaru Legacy last?


With proper maintenance, Legacy models can easily last well beyond 200,000 miles, providing years of dependable service. Outback: The Subaru Outback is a rugged and versatile crossover SUV that's built to withstand the demands of daily driving and outdoor adventures lasting well beyond 200,000 miles.



Will there be a 2026 Subaru Legacy?


The 2026 Subaru Legacy will revolutionize the sedan market with its cutting-edge styling and cutting-edge amenities. This new model adds state-of-the-art technology and a stylish, contemporary look while continuing Subaru's tradition of dependable performance.



Is a Subaru Legacy an old person car?


Top Subaru Models for Seniors
Drivers also love Legacy's whisper-quiet, spacious cabin and the intuitive SUBARU STARLINK® Multimedia system that connects seamlessly to smartphones for hands-free calls, navigation, and music apps–all at the touch of a screen.



Will there be a 2025 Subaru Legacy?


The Subaru Legacy sedan is the longest-running nameplate for the company on sale today and is well-equipped for $24,895 to start. The sophisticated sedan is equipped with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive in all trim levels. For 2025, the Legacy is available in Base, Premium, Limited, Sport and Touring XT trim levels.



What is the life expectancy of a Subaru Legacy?


200,000 miles
Legacy: The Subaru Legacy is a midsize sedan known for its reliability and durability. With proper maintenance, Legacy models can easily last well beyond 200,000 miles, providing years of dependable service.



Why did Subaru discontinue the Legacy?


The reason for discontinuing is for the decrease in demand for mid-size sedans, and they want to put more energy towards EVS and SUVS.



Why is Subaru Legacy unpopular?


Another issue with the Subaru Legacy is the seriously underpowered nature of the entry engine in the lineup. The base models come with a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, which is much less powerful than the option you get with the Sport and Touring XT trims - a 260-hp turbocharged 2.4-liter engine.



What is replacing Subaru Legacy?


At the moment, no direct replacement for the Legacy is in sight. In its announcement of the model's end, Subaru said "[the] discontinuation reflects market shifts from passenger cars to SUVs and crossovers and Subaru's transition to electrified and fully electric vehicles.



Will there be a 2024 Subaru Legacy?


The 2024 Subaru Legacy is built with quality Subaru engineering and loaded with features like the all-weather capability of standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, and available wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration.



What is the average life of a Subaru Legacy?


200,000 miles
With proper maintenance, Legacy models can easily last well beyond 200,000 miles, providing years of dependable service. Outback: The Subaru Outback is a rugged and versatile crossover SUV that's built to withstand the demands of daily driving and outdoor adventures lasting well beyond 200,000 miles.


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.