What To Know
- The Subaru Legacy with the base engine boasts a slightly better fuel economy of 27 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined.
- The Kia Forte starts at an MSRP of $20,290, making it a more affordable option than the Subaru Legacy.
- If you’re looking for a sporty and stylish sedan with a lower price tag, the Kia Forte is an excellent choice.
Choosing the right car can be a daunting task, especially when faced with two compelling options like the Kia Forte and Subaru Legacy. Both vehicles offer a blend of practicality, comfort, and affordability, but their strengths lie in different areas. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, performance, and overall value of each car to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Styling: A Tale of Two Aesthetics
The Kia Forte boasts a modern and sporty design that appeals to a younger audience. Its sharp lines, bold grille, and sleek profile give it a dynamic presence on the road. The interior is equally impressive, featuring high-quality materials and a user-friendly layout.
The Subaru Legacy, on the other hand, takes a more conservative approach to styling. Its design is characterized by its smooth curves and understated elegance. While it may not be as flashy as the Forte, the Legacy offers a timeless appeal that will age gracefully. The interior is known for its spaciousness and comfortable seating, making it a great choice for families.
Performance: Power and Efficiency
The Kia Forte comes standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower. While adequate for everyday driving, it lacks the punch of its competitors. Opting for the optional 1.6-liter turbocharged engine boosts the power output to 201 horsepower, making it a more engaging drive.
The Subaru Legacy offers a choice of two engines: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 182 horsepower and a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder generating 260 horsepower. The base engine provides ample power for most driving situations, while the turbocharged option delivers exhilarating performance. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which provides smooth acceleration and fuel efficiency.
Fuel Economy: Saving Money at the Pump
Both the Kia Forte and Subaru Legacy offer impressive fuel economy figures. The Forte achieves an EPA-estimated 31 mpg city, 41 mpg highway, and 35 mpg combined with the base engine. The turbocharged engine sees a slight decrease in fuel efficiency, with ratings of 29 mpg city, 39 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined.
The Subaru Legacy with the base engine boasts a slightly better fuel economy of 27 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined. The turbocharged engine delivers slightly lower figures of 24 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined.
Safety Features: Protecting You and Your Loved Ones
Both the Kia Forte and Subaru Legacy are equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Standard features include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Forte also offers optional driver assistance features such as blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a driver attention monitor.
The Subaru Legacy goes a step further with its EyeSight suite of driver-assist technologies. This system includes features like lane keep assist, pre-collision braking, and automatic emergency steering. The Legacy also offers optional features like a driver attention monitor, blind spot detection, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Interior Comfort and Technology: A Modern Driving Experience
The Kia Forte offers a comfortable and well-appointed interior. The front seats are supportive and offer ample legroom. The rear seats are also spacious enough for adults. The infotainment system is user-friendly and features a large touchscreen display.
The Subaru Legacy provides a more spacious and luxurious interior. The front seats are comfortable and offer excellent support. The rear seats are also incredibly spacious, making it a great choice for families. The infotainment system is intuitive and features a large touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
Price and Value: Finding the Best Deal
The Kia Forte starts at an MSRP of $20,290, making it a more affordable option than the Subaru Legacy. The Legacy’s starting MSRP is $26,695. While the Legacy is more expensive, it offers a more luxurious and feature-rich experience.
Verdict: Finding the Right Fit for You
Choosing between the Kia Forte and Subaru Legacy ultimately comes down to your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a sporty and stylish sedan with a lower price tag, the Kia Forte is an excellent choice. However, if you prioritize spaciousness, comfort, and advanced safety features, the Subaru Legacy is the better option.
The Legacy of Choice: A Final Thought
Both the Kia Forte and Subaru Legacy offer a compelling blend of practicality, comfort, and value. The Forte’s sporty design and affordability make it a great choice for budget-conscious buyers, while the Legacy’s spacious interior, advanced safety features, and refined driving experience make it a strong contender for families and those seeking a more luxurious driving experience. Ultimately, the best car for you will depend on your individual needs and priorities.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which car is better for daily commuting?
A: Both the Kia Forte and Subaru Legacy are excellent choices for daily commuting. The Forte’s fuel efficiency and nimble handling make it a great option for city driving, while the Legacy’s comfortable ride and spacious interior make it suitable for longer commutes.
Q: Which car is better for families?
A: The Subaru Legacy is a better choice for families due to its spacious interior, comfortable seating, and advanced safety features. The Legacy’s larger cargo space also makes it ideal for hauling luggage and other family essentials.
Q: Which car has better resale value?
A: Subaru vehicles generally have better resale value than Kia models. The Legacy’s reputation for reliability and safety contributes to its strong resale value.
Q: Which car is more reliable?
A: Both the Kia Forte and Subaru Legacy are known for their reliability. However, Subaru consistently ranks higher in reliability surveys.
Q: Which car is better for driving in snowy conditions?
A: The Subaru Legacy is a better choice for driving in snowy conditions due to its standard symmetrical all-wheel drive system. This system provides superior traction and handling in slippery conditions.
