With the Legacy's somewhat larger size and refocused, more value-driven presentation, it now has mainstream models like the Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, and Toyota Camry in its sights.
But the Mazda Mazda6 is probably its most direct rival.
Like the Legacy, the Mazda6 is a little more exciting to drive yet has a roomy interior.
However, none of these other mid-size models comes with all-wheel drive.
The Volkswagen Passat is one rival; but in its present version, it's a more conventional, value-oriented model.
Simply put, the Legacy offers a little more personality and more driving enjoyment than some of the other mid-size rivals like the Camry or Malibu.
With the CVT, the base 2.5i model gets better fuel economy with all-wheel drive than front-wheel-drive competitors.
Against, the new Camry, the Legacy has a comparable package and feature set, but the all-wheel drive can again be a deal-breaker.
The Camry's interior appointments are also no better.
The Nissan Altima has a smaller backseat; it has a sporty feel and handles well, but it's only offered with front-wheel drive.
Its interior is also somewhat drab on base models.
The Honda Accord is a paragon of mid-size sedan refinement, with a beautiful interior and responsive and fuel-efficient powertrains, but like most of these mid-size sedans, it's not offered with all-wheel drive.
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 2012 Subaru LegacyBrowse Used Listings |  2012 Ford FusionBrowse Used Listings |  2012 Mazda MAZDA6Browse Used Listings |  2012 Nissan AltimaBrowse Used Listings |  2012 Toyota CamryBrowse Used Listings |
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| Quick Specs | ||||
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The 2012 Subaru Legacy remains the only mainstream, mid-size sedan to offer all-wheel drive; it's also among the better-handling models in this class, and a strong value in 2.5i form. |
The 2012 Ford Fusion stays at the top of its game, especially as a Hybrid, with perky handling and its cut-above looks. |
The 2012 Mazda6 is just as comfortable, practical, and refined as most other mid-size sedans, but it's a little more enjoyable to drive. |
The 2012 Nissan Altima isn't as roomy as the newest mid-offerings, but as a coupe or as a sedan, it's one of the best-looking and most sporty mid-sizers. |
The redesigned 2012 Toyota Camry remains the most conservative-looking pick among mid-size sedans, but if you want comfort, value, and frugality above all else, it's probably just your style. |
| MSRP From | ||||
| $19,995 | $20,705 | $20,480 | $20,550 | $22,055 |
| Gas Mileage | ||||
| 18 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 36 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 32 MPG Hwy | 21 MPG City / 39 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | ||||
| Gas Flat 4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 |
| EPA Class | ||||
| Midsize Cars | Mid-Size Sedan | Midsize | Midsize | Midsize Car |
| Style Name | ||||
| 4-Door Sedan H4 Manual 2.5i | 4-Door Sedan S FWD | 4-Door Sedan Manual i Sport | 4-Door Sedan I4 CVT 2.5 | 4-Door Sedan I4 Automatic L (GS) |
| Drivetrain | ||||
| All Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | ||||
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | ||||
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | ||||
| Sedan | 4 Door Sedan | 4 Door Sedan | 4 Door Sedan | 4 Door Sedan |
| Transmission | ||||
| Manual | Manual | Manual w/OD | Continuously Variable Ratio | Automatic w/Manual Shift |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
| 2012 Subaru Legacy vs. 2012 Ford Fusion | 2012 Subaru Legacy vs. 2012 Mazda MAZDA6 | 2012 Subaru Legacy vs. 2012 Nissan Altima | 2012 Subaru Legacy vs. 2012 Toyota Camry | |
