

Model Year | 2020 | 2012 | |
Model | Subaru Legacy | Subaru Outback | |
Engine | turbocharged 2.4L H4 DOHC-4v 260 hp@5600 277 lb-ft@2000 |
3.6L H6 DOHC-4v 256 hp@6000 247 lb-ft@4400 |
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Transmission | 8-speed shiftable CVT | 5-speed shiftable automatic | |
Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | |
Body | 4dr Sedan | 4dr Wagon | |
Difference | |||
Wheelbase | 108.3 in | 107.9 in | 0.4 in |
Length | 190.6 in | 188.2 in | 2.4 in |
Width | 72.4 in | 71.7 in | 0.7 in |
Height | 59.1 in | 65.7 in | -6.6 in |
Curb Weight | 3779 lb. | 3597 lb. | 182 lb. |
Fuel Capacity | 18.5 gal. | 18.5 gal. | 0 gal. |
Headroom, Row 1 | 39.4 in | 40.8 in | -1.4 in |
Shoulder Room, Row 1 | 58.1 in | 56.3 in | 1.8 in |
Legroom, Row 1 | 42.8 in | 43.0 in | -0.2 in |
Headroom, Row 2 | 37.2 in | 39.3 in | -2.1 in |
Shoulder Room, Row 2 | 57.4 in | 56.1 in | 1.3 in |
Legroom, Row 2 | 39.5 in | 37.8 in | 1.7 in |
Total Legroom | 82.3 in (over 2 rows) | 80.8 in (over 2 rows) | 1.5 in |
Cargo Volume, Minimum | 15.1 ft3 | 34.3 ft3 | -19.2 ft3 |
Cargo Volume, Maximum | 15.1 ft3 | 71.3 ft3 | -56.2 ft3 |
2020 Subaru Legacy Seat Room and Comfort: Pros | ||
Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
2021 | 4dr Sedan turbocharged 260hp 2.4L H4 8-speed shiftable CVT AWD |
Front seats are softly padded in a way that is uncommon in modern vehicles. Driver's seat adjustments are above average, as there is an adjustable thigh support. Passenger seats lack lumbar adjustment and thigh support extensions, but have full 8-way power including seat-bottom tilt and height adjustment.
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Some drivers complain the lumbar support is intrusive, while others complain it's too subtle. Remember to sit in a seat and get a feel for yourself, as it is very subjective.
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The driver's seat has the option of a facial recognition system that is fairly reliable if used correctly and a useful feature that is not common in other cars. Memory buttons remain on the door for those that prefer them.
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The details that count: According to the owner's manual, the facial recognition system's software is open-source and data remains in the vehicle.
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2020 Subaru Legacy Seat Room and Comfort: Cons | ||
Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
2021 | 4dr Sedan turbocharged 260hp 2.4L H4 8-speed shiftable CVT AWD |
The Mazda6 has a smaller rear seat, no way around it. That being said, I find it to be more richly appointed than the Legacy's with the same great materials as up-front and cool touches: the USB ports are in the center armrest with a covered storage cubby, and the rear seat heaters are 3-level with controls in the armrest. These touches are reminiscent of very high-end luxury cars and are more convenient locations in general. The Mazda's heated rear seats also seem to be stronger than the Legacy's. --- The seats follow the same theme as the front in both cars- softer/plusher in the Legacy, firmer but well shaped in the Mazda. --- The front seat-backs are more upscale in the Mazda, and the rear seat of the Mazda has ambient lighting in the door pockets (unlike the Legacy). Overall, the rear cabin of the Mazda is snugger but remains comfortable while carrying on the quality and elegance of the front. For space though, the Legacy still grabs a Win here. see full Subaru Legacy review |
2012 Subaru Outback Seat Room and Comfort: Pros | ||
Year | Body/Powertrain | Comment |
2012 | 4dr Wagon 256-horsepower 3.6L H6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD |
I am a big guy. 5'10 and about 290 lbs. This car is very comfortable for me. I can reach the controls nicely, love the heated leather seats. see full Subaru Outback review |
2012 | 4dr Wagon 170-horsepower 2.5L H4 6-speed shiftable CVT AWD |
0 see full Subaru Outback review |
2012 | 4dr Wagon 170-horsepower 2.5L H4 6-speed shiftable CVT AWD |
I have found our 2012 Outback to be very comfortable for long drives. The driver's seat has plenty of adjustment to accommodate my frame. Legroom is outstanding. My wife got so spoiled with the heated seats in our 99 Outback Limited that she balks at cars without. So our 2010 and now the 2012 have had the heated seats. see full Subaru Outback review |
2012 | 4dr Wagon 170-horsepower 2.5L H4 6-speed shiftable CVT AWD |
Rear seat comfort is excellent even for very tall teenagers and 20 somethings. The redesign of the Outback in 2010 noticeably improved rear seat space. One note when flipping down the back seats. Make sure your head is out of the way when you lift the release lever. The seat back springs forward quickly. The angle of the rear seat can also be reclined for additional comfort. The fold down center cup holder is a nice touch. The seating position is high so visibility is great. see full Subaru Outback review |
2012 | 4dr Wagon 170-horsepower 2.5L H4 6-speed shiftable CVT AWD |
Very comfortable. see full Subaru Outback review |
2011 | 4dr Wagon 170-horsepower 2.5L H4 6-speed shiftable CVT AWD |
Impressed with the seat comfort/adjustability/durability. 12+hours in the chair is no problem. see full Subaru Outback review |
2011 | 4dr Wagon 170-horsepower 2.5L H4 6-speed shiftable CVT AWD |
Wide space with lots of shoulder, hip, leg and head room. Seats are comfy too without being decadent. see full Subaru Outback review |