Hey car enthusiasts, let's dive into the 2021 Subaru Legacy Sport! If you're on the hunt for a sedan that offers a bit more flair and performance without breaking the bank, the Legacy Sport might just be your jam. Subaru has a reputation for building reliable cars with excellent all-wheel-drive systems, and the Legacy Sport aims to bring a sportier edge to that already solid foundation. We're talking about a car that's practical for daily driving but also has the chops to make your commute a little more exciting. So, buckle up as we break down what makes this particular trim stand out in the crowded sedan market.

Under the Hood: Power and Performance

First things first, let's talk about what's powering this machine. The 2021 Subaru Legacy Sport comes standard with a 2.5-liter BOXER engine. Now, Subaru's BOXER engines are pretty unique – they have a horizontally opposed cylinder layout, which means they're lower and flatter than traditional V-engines. This design helps lower the car's center of gravity, leading to better stability and handling. For the Sport trim, this engine puts out a respectable 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. While it's not going to set any land speed records, it's more than enough grunt for everyday driving, merging onto highways, and keeping up with traffic. The power is sent to Subaru's legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system via a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). I know, I know, some people aren't fans of CVTs, but Subaru has done a decent job of tuning theirs to feel more responsive, especially in the Sport model. It mimics gear shifts under acceleration, which makes it feel less like a droning rubber band and more like a traditional automatic. Plus, with the AWD, you get incredible traction in all sorts of weather conditions, which is a huge plus for anyone living in areas with rain, snow, or just generally slippery roads. The handling is surprisingly nimble for a mid-size sedan, thanks to that low center of gravity and a well-tuned suspension. It feels planted and confident around corners, giving you a sense of security and engagement that many competitors lack. For those who want even more pep, Subaru does offer a more powerful 2.4-liter turbocharged engine on higher trims, but for the Sport model, this 2.5-liter is the go-to, and honestly, it strikes a good balance between efficiency and performance for most drivers.

Exterior Styling: Sporty Accents

Now, let's talk about how the 2021 Subaru Legacy Sport looks. As the name suggests, this trim adds some visual enhancements to make it stand out from the more basic Legacy models. The Sport trim typically gets unique 18-inch dark gray alloy wheels, which give it a more aggressive stance. You'll also notice sportier front and rear bumper styling, subtle but effective tweaks that hint at its performance-oriented nature. Body-colored side mirrors and chrome exhaust tips further differentiate it from lower trims. The front grille often features a sportier mesh design, and red "Sport" badging is usually present to let everyone know you've opted for the more dynamic version. The overall design of the 2021 Legacy is sleek and modern, with clean lines and a slightly sloping roofline that gives it a coupe-like profile. It’s not overly flashy, which is great for those who prefer understated sportiness. The headlights are sharp and modern, often featuring LED daytime running lights that give it a distinctive signature. The rear end is clean and well-proportioned, with taillights that echo the design of the headlights. It’s a handsome car that manages to look both sophisticated and athletic. The dimensions place it squarely in the mid-size sedan segment, offering a good balance between interior space and maneuverability. It’s large enough to be comfortable for passengers and carry cargo, but not so big that it feels cumbersome in parking lots or city streets. The Sport trim successfully injects a dose of visual excitement without going overboard, making it an attractive option for buyers who appreciate subtle performance cues.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Step inside the 2021 Subaru Legacy Sport, and you'll find an interior that's both comfortable and packed with technology. The first thing you'll notice is the sport-oriented seating. These seats are usually upholstered in a combination of cloth and faux leather, with contrasting red stitching – a classic sporty touch. They offer good support for both daily commuting and spirited driving, helping to keep you in place during more enthusiastic cornering. The driver's seat is typically power-adjustable, offering a wide range of motion to find that perfect driving position. Subaru interiors are known for their ergonomics and straightforward layout, and the 2021 Legacy is no exception. Everything is within easy reach, and the controls are intuitive. The centerpiece of the dashboard is the large 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This vertically oriented screen is impressive and houses controls for audio, climate, navigation, and vehicle settings. While it looks high-tech, some users might find that relying heavily on the touchscreen for basic functions like temperature control can be a slight learning curve compared to physical buttons. However, it does offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, which is crucial for seamless smartphone connectivity. Bluetooth, USB ports, and an auxiliary input are standard, ensuring you can connect all your devices. Higher trims offer features like a premium audio system, but even on the Sport, the standard system is generally quite good. The cabin is also quite spacious for a mid-size sedan. Rear-seat passengers will find ample legroom and headroom, making it a comfortable car for families or for carrying friends. The trunk offers a generous amount of cargo space, easily accommodating luggage for road trips or weekly grocery runs. Noise insulation is also commendable; the cabin remains relatively quiet at highway speeds, allowing for comfortable conversations or enjoyment of your music. The overall impression is one of a well-built, functional, and technologically equipped interior that offers a pleasant environment for all occupants.

Safety Features: Subaru's Strong Suit

When it comes to safety, Subaru is a brand that consistently shines, and the 2021 Subaru Legacy Sport is no exception. The Legacy lineup is renowned for its strong safety ratings, and the Sport trim benefits from all the standard safety advancements. The star of the show here is Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This suite of advanced safety features comes standard on most Subaru models, including the Legacy Sport equipped with the CVT. EyeSight uses stereo cameras mounted near the rearview mirror to monitor the road ahead, providing features like: Adaptive Cruise Control, which can automatically adjust your speed to maintain a set distance from the car in front; Pre-Collision Braking, which can apply the brakes automatically if it detects an impending frontal collision; Pre-Collision Throttle Management, which can cut engine power if a frontal collision is detected; Lane Departure and Sway Warning, which alerts you if you start drifting out of your lane or exhibiting erratic driving; and Lead Vehicle Start Alert, which notifies you when a stopped vehicle in front of you has started moving. In addition to EyeSight, the Legacy Sport typically includes automatic high beams, which are a godsend on dark, winding roads. You also get high-strength steel construction throughout the body, multiple airbags strategically placed, and a standard rearview camera. Some trims might also offer Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, further enhancing situational awareness. The Legacy has consistently earned top marks in crash tests from organizations like the NHTSA and IIHS, often receiving the coveted Top Safety Pick+ designation. This commitment to safety is a major selling point for Subaru and provides incredible peace of mind for drivers and their families. It’s reassuring to know that your vehicle is equipped with such advanced technology designed to prevent accidents before they happen and protect occupants if an incident does occur.

The Verdict: Is the 2021 Legacy Sport Right for You?

So, where does that leave us with the 2021 Subaru Legacy Sport? If you're looking for a capable, practical, and safe mid-size sedan with a touch of sporty flair, this car is definitely worth considering. The standard all-wheel drive is a massive advantage for anyone who deals with adverse weather conditions, and Subaru's reputation for reliability is hard to beat. The Sport trim adds just enough visual and minor performance tweaks to make it feel special without being over the top. The interior is comfortable, well-equipped with a large infotainment screen and modern tech, and the safety features are truly class-leading. While the CVT might not be everyone's cup of tea, Subaru's implementation is one of the better ones out there, and the 182 horsepower engine provides adequate performance for most situations. It’s a car that strikes a great balance – it’s sensible enough for the daily grind but engaging enough to keep things interesting on the open road. If you value safety, all-weather capability, and a refined driving experience in a sedan package, the 2021 Subaru Legacy Sport should absolutely be on your radar. It’s a smart choice for those who want a car that does a lot of things well without compromising on the essentials. It represents great value in the segment, offering a comprehensive package that's hard to find elsewhere. Guys, if you want a sedan that’s a bit more exciting than your average commuter but still incredibly practical, give the Legacy Sport a look. You might be pleasantly surprised by what it has to offer!