The Subaru Legacy and Outback share the same BOXER engine, the same Symmetrical AWD system, and the same EyeSight safety suite. What separates them is philosophy - the Legacy is a traditional sedan optimized for efficiency and handling; the Outback is a wagon-crossover hybrid built for versatility and a higher ride. Choosing between them comes down to knowing which one fits how you actually drive on Long Island.
Bottom Line: Choose the Legacy if you prioritize fuel economy, a lower center of gravity for better handling, and a lower price. Choose the Outback if you want more cargo versatility, higher ground clearance, and easier entry and exit for rear passengers or older adults.
- Legacy starts ~$4,000 lower than the comparable Outback trim
- Outback has 8.7 inches of ground clearance; Legacy has 5.1 inches
- Outback offers 75.7 cubic feet of cargo (seats folded); Legacy has 60.1 cubic feet
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Spec | Legacy | Outback |
|---|---|---|
| Base Price | ✓ ~$24,295 | ~$28,495 |
| Ground Clearance | 5.1 in | ✓ 8.7 in |
| Max Cargo Space | 60.1 cu ft | ✓ 75.7 cu ft |
| Highway MPG (2.5L) | ✓ 35 mpg | 33 mpg |
| AWD System | ✓ Standard All Trims | ✓ Standard All Trims |
| Rear Entry Height | Lower - sedan step-in | ✓ Higher - easier access |
| Available XT Turbo | ✓ Yes (260 hp) | ✓ Yes (260 hp) |
Who Should Choose the Legacy?
The Legacy is the right choice for Nassau County buyers who:
Drive primarily on paved roads and highways - the LIE, Northern State Parkway, Meadowbrook Parkway. The Legacy’s lower ride height means it won’t encounter the clearance challenges that would only matter on unpaved roads, and it’s not a meaningful issue for Nassau County daily use.
Prioritize fuel economy above all else. The Legacy’s 27 city / 35 highway MPG advantage over the Outback’s 26 city / 33 highway is modest but consistent, adding up over the life of a lease or loan. For Hicksville to Manhattan commuters putting 20,000+ miles per year, this margin is meaningful.
Want a traditional sedan’s handling character. The Legacy sits lower and has a more car-like driving feel - it’s less prone to body roll in corners and more immediately responsive to steering input. For buyers who enjoy driving rather than simply being transported, the Legacy is the more engaging choice.
Have a budget constraint. At $4,000 less to start, the Legacy delivers almost identical AWD capability and safety features at a lower price point.
Who Should Choose the Outback?
The Outback is the right choice for Nassau County buyers who:
Frequently carry large or bulky cargo. The Outback’s wagon body - with a low cargo floor, wide hatch opening, and fold-flat rear seats - makes it significantly more practical for things like bikes, camping gear, beach equipment, or furniture hauls from IKEA in Carle Place.
Transport older adults or people with mobility limitations. The Outback’s higher seat position makes entry and exit significantly easier than the Legacy’s lower sedan stance. This is a real-world quality-of-life advantage for families with grandparents or anyone with knee or hip issues.
Occasionally venture beyond paved roads. The Outback’s 8.7 inches of ground clearance makes it genuinely capable on unpaved park paths, camping sites, or light off-road terrain. The Legacy would scrape its front air dam on terrain the Outback handles without hesitation.
Want the Outback Wilderness edition’s additional capability. The Wilderness trim adds 9.5 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and increased tow rating - making it the most off-road capable non-Jeep in this price class.
"The Legacy-Outback conversation usually resolves itself when buyers tell me what they actually use the car for. If they mention camping or hauling gear, I walk them to the Outback. If they mention commuting and fuel bills, we go back to the Legacy."
General Manager, Grand Prix Subaru
The Verdict for Different Nassau County Buyers
For Hicksville-to-Manhattan commuters: Legacy - lower price, better highway MPG, and adequate AWD for the commute.
For families with young children who need cargo space: Outback - the wagon’s practicality over five years of kids’ gear, strollers, and sports equipment makes the price difference worth it.
For buyers who want to use an SUV-style vehicle occasionally off-road: Outback Wilderness - the ground clearance and all-terrain tires are genuine differentiators that the Legacy can’t match.
For buyers who prioritize driving dynamics: Legacy - it’s the more car-like, engaging drive of the two.
Both vehicles are available at Grand Prix Subaru in Hicksville. Compare Legacy and Outback inventory side by side, or read our complete Legacy buyers guide for a deeper dive on Legacy trim levels and features.
FAQ
Does the Subaru Outback have better resale value than the Legacy? The Outback consistently outperforms the Legacy in resale value, primarily because demand for crossovers and wagons has outpaced sedans in the Nassau County market. If you plan to sell or trade within 3-5 years, the Outback’s higher resale partially offsets its higher purchase price.
Can the Subaru Legacy tow a trailer? The Legacy has a maximum tow rating of 2,700 lbs - enough for a small boat, utility trailer, or motorcycle trailer. The Outback matches this 2,700-lb rating. Neither is designed as a primary towing vehicle; buyers who regularly tow should consider the Subaru Ascent (5,000 lbs) or a truck-based alternative.
Which is better for Long Island winters - Legacy or Outback? Both perform identically in winter conditions from an AWD standpoint - same Symmetrical AWD system, same EyeSight safety features. The Outback’s higher ground clearance gives a slight advantage in deep snow accumulation. With proper winter tires (available at Grand Prix Subaru), both are among the most capable vehicles in their respective segments for winter driving.
Is the Outback considered an SUV or a station wagon? The Outback is officially a crossover SUV but with traditional wagon proportions - a long roofline extending over a low cargo floor rather than a high, truck-like stance. Subaru markets it as an SUV; it functions as a very capable wagon. This is precisely why it appeals to buyers who want crossover practicality with sedan-like driving dynamics.