2026 Subaru Legacy Base vs 2026 Subaru Legacy Touring XT
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Legacy Base starts at $25,195, $12,150 less. Legacy Base leads with 30 MPG. Legacy Touring XT makes 260 hp (+78).
| Spec | 2026 Subaru Legacy Base | 2026 Subaru Legacy Touring XT |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $25,195 Save $12,150 | $37,345 +$12,150 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L Flat-4 | 2.4L Turbo |
| Horsepower | 182 hp 78 hp less | 260 hp +78 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 +3 | 24 3 less |
| Hwy MPG | 35 +3 | 32 3 less |
| Combined MPG | 30 +3 | 27 3 less |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 15.1 cu ft | 15.1 cu ft |
| Screen | 11.6" | 11.6" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | No | Yes |
| Moonroof | No | Yes |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,449 lbs | 3,680 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.3" | 108.3" |
| Length | 190.6" | 190.6" |
| Wheels | 17" Alloy | 18" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | EyeSight | EyeSight |
Which Trim Is Best?
The Legacy Base delivers value; the Legacy Touring XT adds features worth $12,150.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Subaru Legacy Base and 2026 Subaru Legacy Touring XT?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Legacy Base or Legacy Touring XT?
Is the 2026 Subaru Legacy Base worth it, or should I upgrade to Touring XT?
What features does the Touring XT have that the Base doesn't?
Do the Base and Touring XT have the same engine?
Which 2026 Subaru Legacy trim has the best resale value?
Is the 2026 Subaru Legacy a good car?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Subaru Legacy Base?
Who Should Choose the Base
The 2026 Subaru Legacy Base is the right pick for buyers who prioritize value and don't need every available feature. At $25,195, it delivers the core Legacy experience — the same platform, the same 2.5L Flat-4 engine, and the same safety suite — without the cost of extras that many drivers rarely use.
If your driving is primarily commuting and errands, and you'd rather put the $12,150 price difference toward other expenses, the Base makes a strong case. Budget-conscious buyers and those buying for reliability rather than luxury will feel well-served here.
Who Should Choose the Touring XT
The 2026 Subaru Legacy Touring XT targets buyers willing to spend $12,150 more for a more complete package. That premium buys heated seats, a moonroof, 78 more horsepower — features you'll interact with regularly, not just once at the dealership.
If cold mornings, long drives, or frequent passengers are part of your routine, the comfort upgrades in the Touring XT pay dividends over years of ownership. If resale value matters, higher trims also tend to hold their value better as a percentage of MSRP. See how other Legacy trims compare: Legacy Base vs Legacy Sport, Legacy Sport vs Legacy Touring XT, Camry LE vs Legacy Base.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $12,150 gap between the Base and Touring XT comes down to comfort and convenience features. Specifically, the Touring XT adds heated seats, a moonroof, 78 more horsepower.
There is also a performance difference: the Legacy Touring XT produces 260 hp versus 182 hp, which translates to noticeable acceleration differences.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Most technology-focused buyers won't find a dramatic difference between these trims — the core infotainment and safety tech carries across the lineup. During winter months, the heated seats in the Legacy Touring XT become a daily comfort — something you'll appreciate every morning.
Casual drivers who use their sedan primarily for commuting may find the trims feel very similar once underway. The differences are most apparent when you first get in, adjust settings, and interact with the cabin.
When Both Trims Feel the Same
On the highway at 65 mph, these two trims deliver an identical experience. Same engine note, same ride quality, same safety features active in the background. The Legacy's fundamental driving character doesn't change between the Base and Touring XT.
Both trims also share the same warranty coverage, the same crash-test ratings, and access to the same dealer service network. If your priority is getting from A to B in a reliable, efficient sedan, either trim accomplishes that equally well. The choice ultimately comes down to how much the in-cabin experience matters to your daily satisfaction with the vehicle.