10 Best Sedans In 2021 - Number 3 Subaru Legacy Is The SUV-Alternative

Which are the best sedans for 2021? Consumer Reports ranks the top-10 models and now scores the 2021 Subaru Legacy number three best overall. CR says sedans are a smart choice for consumers because they offer fuel economy, a roomy cabin, cargo space, and flexibility into a package that is often more enjoyable to drive than the average SUV.

Consumer Reports (by subscription) ranks the 2021 Subaru Legacy number 3 overall midsize sedan of thirteen models. Why is the Legacy ranked so high? CR says, "Its super comfortable ride outshines that of some luxury cars. Handling is responsive but not sporty."

Photo credit: Competition Subaru

Subaru Legacy comes with two engine options; a 182-hp 2.5-liter or a 260-horsepower turbocharged 2.4-liter engine. CR says, "The standard engine is adequate but makes an unpleasant roar when pushed. It provides a decent 28 mpg overall. The turbocharged version delivers strong acceleration and is quieter; it returned 24 mpg overall. We like that the well-tuned continuously variable transmission doesn't let the engine get too loud."

What is the downside to the Legacy?

"Unfortunately, users must wade into infotainment menus to perform some common tasks. Standard equipment includes forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking, but blind-spot warning and rear cross traffic alert are optional", says the CR report.

Photo credit: Competition Subaru

Below are the ten best mainstream midsized and large sedans, with base prices ranging from $22,000 to $44,000, ranked in order of Overall Score.

Toyota Camry scores 90
Toyota Avalon 88
Subaru Legacy 84
Honda Accord 84
Mazda 6 83
Nissan Maxima 81
Honda Clarity 80
Nissan Altima 80
Dodge Charger 79
Kia K5 73
Why choose Legacy over an SUV?

Not everyone needs a bigger SUV. If you don't have a family to haul around and you don't use your vehicle for weekend adventures, you don't need that extra space. The advantage of a sedan over an SUV is it's lighter, more aerodynamic, and it offers better driving dynamics.

Ride quality for four passengers will be better than a higher-riding SUV. For the first time in any Subaru vehicle, Legacy gets a floor cross member filled with a highly rigid and lightweight two-part foam material and an all-new suspension that is lighter, stronger, and more responsive. Legacy's stiffened platform and strengthened suspension will lower the center of gravity, providing more responsive steering and handling and a smoother, quieter ride.

What is the fuel mileage of the 2021 Subaru Legacy?

Being lighter also contributes to better fuel economy as well over a bigger SUV. The EPA says the Legacy XT returns EPA mileage figures estimated at 24 mpg city/32 mpg highway. The standard naturally aspirated 2.5-liter flat-4 engine gets an EPA estimated fuel economy of 27/35 mpg city/highway.

Does the Legacy come with all-wheel-drive?

Legacy is still the only sedan in America that comes standard with all-wheel-drive, so you don't need an SUV to get you safely home. It comes with Subaru's excellent Symmetrical AWD system for all-weather capability. You don't need to worry about getting through snow, ice, or muddy roads.

Capable cargo

If you don't need to throw a mountain bike in the back, Legacy offers capable cargo-carrying ability. The 2021 Legacy comes with 15.1 cu ft of cargo capacity and 1.4 inches of additional cargo floor length. The Legacy's trunk can comfortably hold four full-size luggage bags, giving it the functionality to match that of many small crossovers.

Legacy offers standard roof brackets for quick installation of a rack, box, or tray if you need to carry additional cargo, making it easy to load surfboards, canoes, and other sports equipment.

What is the price of the 2021 Subaru Legacy?

The 2021 Legacy comes in six trim levels. The midsize sedan starts at $22,895 for the base trim, Premium ($25,145), Sport ($27,095), Limited ($29,895), Limited XT ($34,445), and Touring XT ($36,145). Destination adds $1,050.

Consumer Reports ranks the 2021 Subaru Legacy number three overall best sedan for 2021. Is the Subaru Legacy a safe car? Check out the safety scores in the Torque News report below.

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Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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Photo credit: Competition Subaru