Finding the right family sedan can be challenging, as you want to balance comfort, convenience, reliability, and affordability all in one vehicle. The Honda Accord and Subaru Legacy are midsize sedans that have similar safety features, driving capabilities, prices, and class sizes. So how do you choose between these two reliable options?
While these models are similar to each other and compete in the same market segment, there are some differences that may impact your decision. However, ultimately the right choice will depend on your personal preferences and budget. We'll go over some of the main pros and cons of the Accord vs. Legacy to help you more easily come to a decision that's right for you.
One of the most well-known and popular sedans on the market today is the Accord. Reliable and competent, the Accord may not be the flashiest or most stylish sedan available, but it typically has a high resale value. Thanks to its long-term value, fuel efficiency, affordability, and comfortable features, many families choose to drive the Accord.
It's available in six trim levels–the LX (base trim), EX, Sport Hybrid, EX-L Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, and Touring Hybrid. The LX is the most affordable trim available and costs $27,295. If your budget can be stretched, then you might want to consider some of the upper trim levels. The Touring Hybrid is the most expensive option at $37,890.
There are a lot of safety features available on all trims of the Accord, such as a forward collision warning, lane departure warning, traffic jam assist, and a traffic sign recognition system. On higher trims, you'll also have additional safety features, like parking sensors (EX-L Hybrid and Touring Hybrid), a blind spot information system (available for all trims except LX), and low-speed braking control (Touring Hybrid).
The Legacy offers a family sedan that has a roomy cabin for passengers, adequate driving capabilities, and is equipped with desirable features. Additionally, the Legacy offers relatively high fuel efficiency even without hybrid options. You can expect to have an estimated 30 combined city/highway mpg rating for the non-turbo engine trims. With the Legacy trims that have turbo engines, you should expect an estimated 27 combined city/highway mpg rating.
The current model year Legacy is available in five trims–Base, Premium, Limited, Sport, and Touring XT. Pricing will vary depending on which trim you choose. If you're looking for the most affordable option, the Base costs $24,395. However, if you want the trim with the most upgrades, you should consider the Touring XT. The Touring XT trim costs $37,695.
The Legacy also offers safety features like the Accord, so you can expect high-quality technology such as pre-collision braking, adaptive cruise control, and a lane departure warning. If you opt for higher trim levels, you'll also be equipped with features like a distraction mitigation system (Sport and Touring XT), blind-spot detection system with rear cross-traffic alerts (Limited, Sport, and Touring XT), and reverse automatic braking (Limited, Sport, and Touring XT).
It can be hard to choose between the Accord vs. the Legacy, as both options have features that are desirable to car shoppers. To make the decision easier for you, we compare the two models in important categories, like price, fuel efficiency, size, and engine capabilities.
Affordability is a huge driving force in a lot of car shoppers' decisions. If you are looking for the most affordable base trims available, the Legacy has the cheapest option. The Base trim costs almost three thousand dollars less than the Accord's lowest trim (LX). However, if you are interested in higher trims, the Legacy and Accord are similarly priced. So if you are considering the highest trim of both models, there won't be much difference in cost.
Although the Legacy does offer adequate fuel efficiency rates for a midsize sedan, it does not do as well in this category as the Accord. If you're looking for the most fuel-efficient option for your next vehicle, then you'll prefer the Accord vs. the Legacy. You can choose from a few different Accord hybrid options, one of which has an estimated 48 combined city/highway mpg rating. In comparison, the best option from the Legacy model offers a 30 combined city/highway mpg rating.
The base trims of both models offer similar engine horsepower capabilities. However, on the Legacy's higher trims (Sport and Touring XT), the turbo engine is capable of reaching 260 horsepower. In contrast, the Accord only reaches 201 horsepower on its hybrid trims.
If you're looking for an all-wheel drive option, then you'll appreciate the Legacy, which has this standard feature on all trim levels. Unfortunately, the Accord model doesn't offer any trims with an all-wheel drive option. The only option is a front-wheel drive system for all trims.
For families, having enough space for passengers and cargo is an important feature to take into consideration. Though they have similar class sizes, the Accord has more space for rear passengers and more cargo room. If you plan on taking passengers often, then you'll prefer the backseat legroom of the Accord vs. the Legacy. Additionally, you'll have more space in the trunk for things like groceries, gear, and luggage to accommodate your family's needs.
Overall, the right decision for your next family car comes down to your preferences and financial situation. The Subaru Legacy may be the right fit for those who want the most affordable base option. However, the Honda Accord is the most overall practical option for families. Thanks to its high fuel-efficient trims, sophisticated technology, and standard features, the Accord is an excellent choice for those wanting a comfortable, reliable vehicle. We have a selection of Honda models available for test drives and purchases for those who are ready to begin the car-buying process.
