Let's dive into the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport, a car that often flies under the radar but packs a punch for those in the know. This isn't your average family sedan; it's got a bit of sporty flair, a dash of practicality, and all the reliability Subaru is known for. For those considering a mid-size sedan that offers more than just basic transportation, the 2017 Legacy Sport deserves a serious look.

What Makes the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport Stand Out?

The 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport differentiates itself from the standard Legacy models primarily through its aesthetic and handling enhancements. It's designed to appeal to drivers who desire a more engaging driving experience without sacrificing the comfort and practicality of a mid-size sedan. The exterior boasts unique styling cues such as a distinctive front grille, a rear spoiler, and sporty alloy wheels. These elements give the car a more aggressive and athletic stance compared to its more conservatively styled siblings. Inside, the Sport trim features exclusive upholstery and trim details that enhance the cabin's visual appeal, creating a sportier ambiance for both the driver and passengers. The combination of these visual and tactile enhancements contributes to a heightened sense of driving pleasure.

Beyond aesthetics, the Legacy Sport also offers a slightly firmer suspension tuning. This upgrade sharpens the car's handling and reduces body roll during cornering, providing a more connected feel to the road. While it's not a full-blown performance car, the Sport trim offers a noticeable improvement in driving dynamics over the base and Premium models. This makes it more enjoyable to drive on winding roads or during spirited commutes. The inclusion of features like sport-tuned suspension and active torque vectoring further enhances its agility and responsiveness. These mechanical upgrades work together to deliver a driving experience that is both engaging and confidence-inspiring. For drivers who appreciate a balance of comfort and sportiness, the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport is an excellent choice.

Moreover, the 2017 Legacy Sport comes standard with a suite of technology features that add to its appeal. The infotainment system includes a larger touchscreen display, smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a premium audio system. These features keep drivers connected and entertained on the road, making every journey more enjoyable. Safety is also a priority, with standard features like a rearview camera, blind-spot detection, and rear cross-traffic alert. These technologies enhance driver awareness and help prevent accidents, providing peace of mind for both the driver and passengers. The combination of sporty styling, enhanced handling, and advanced technology makes the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport a well-rounded and attractive option in the mid-size sedan segment.

Under the Hood: Engine and Performance

Let's talk about what powers the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport. It typically comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. While it's not a powerhouse, it provides adequate pep for daily driving. We're talking around 175 horsepower, which is enough to get you around town and merge onto the highway without feeling like you're struggling. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which prioritizes fuel efficiency.

Speaking of fuel efficiency, the 2017 Legacy Sport does pretty well in this department. You can expect to get around 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Of course, your mileage may vary depending on your driving style and road conditions, but these are respectable numbers for a mid-size sedan with all-wheel drive. One of the biggest advantages of the Legacy, including the Sport trim, is its standard all-wheel drive. This gives you extra traction and stability in all kinds of weather conditions, making it a great choice if you live in an area with snow or rain. It provides enhanced grip and control, ensuring confident handling and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. This is a significant advantage over many of its competitors, which only offer all-wheel drive as an optional upgrade.

The CVT in the Legacy Sport is designed to mimic the gear changes of a traditional automatic transmission, which helps to make the driving experience feel more natural. It smoothly adjusts the gear ratio to optimize engine performance and fuel economy, providing seamless acceleration and efficient power delivery. While some drivers may prefer the more direct feel of a conventional automatic, the CVT in the Legacy Sport is well-tuned and responsive, minimizing the typical drone associated with CVTs. It also contributes to the car's overall refinement, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. The combination of the four-cylinder engine, CVT, and all-wheel drive creates a balanced and capable powertrain that is well-suited for everyday driving.

While the Legacy Sport isn't going to win any races, it's a competent performer that offers a good balance of power, fuel efficiency, and all-weather capability. For drivers who prioritize practicality and reliability over outright speed, the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport is a solid choice. It provides a comfortable and confident driving experience, making it ideal for daily commutes and long road trips. The inclusion of all-wheel drive adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind, especially in challenging driving conditions. This combination of features makes the Legacy Sport a standout in its class, offering a compelling alternative to more mainstream options.

Interior and Features: Comfort and Tech

Stepping inside the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport, you'll find a cabin that's both comfortable and functional. The seats are supportive, making them suitable for long drives, and the materials used throughout the interior feel decent for the price point. It's not a luxury car, but it's not cheap-feeling either. One of the highlights of the Legacy Sport is its infotainment system. It features a user-friendly touchscreen display with crisp graphics and intuitive menus. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's system. This makes it easy to access your favorite apps, navigation, and music on the go.

The Legacy Sport also comes with a range of other convenient features, such as a rearview camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. Some models may also include options like a sunroof, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features enhance both comfort and safety, making the Legacy Sport a well-equipped and practical choice. The interior design is straightforward and uncluttered, with all the controls logically placed and easy to reach. This contributes to a stress-free driving experience, allowing you to focus on the road ahead.

In terms of space, the 2017 Legacy Sport offers plenty of room for both passengers and cargo. The rear seats are spacious enough to comfortably accommodate adults, and the trunk is large enough to hold a decent amount of luggage or groceries. This makes it a practical choice for families or anyone who needs to haul stuff around. The interior also includes numerous storage compartments, such as door pockets, a center console, and a glovebox, providing ample space for stowing personal items. The overall impression is one of practicality and functionality, with a focus on providing a comfortable and convenient environment for both the driver and passengers.

Overall, the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport offers a pleasant and well-equipped interior that's perfect for daily driving. The combination of comfortable seats, user-friendly technology, and ample space makes it a practical and enjoyable choice. While it may not be the most luxurious car in its class, it offers a good balance of features and value, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers. The inclusion of features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto adds to its appeal, ensuring that you stay connected and entertained on the road. This makes the Legacy Sport a compelling option in the mid-size sedan segment.

Reliability and Safety: Subaru's Strong Suits

When it comes to reliability, Subaru has a solid reputation, and the 2017 Legacy Sport is no exception. Subaru vehicles are known for their longevity and durability, and the Legacy is generally considered to be a reliable car. Of course, like any car, it's important to keep up with regular maintenance to ensure it stays in good condition. This includes things like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. By following the recommended maintenance schedule, you can help to prevent problems and keep your Legacy running smoothly for years to come.

In terms of safety, the 2017 Legacy Sport earns high marks. It has been crash-tested by both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), and it has received top scores in both tests. This means that it's a safe car in the event of a collision. The Legacy Sport also comes with a range of standard safety features, such as antilock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. Some models may also include advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. These features help to prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe.

Subaru's commitment to safety is evident in the Legacy Sport's design and engineering. The car's structure is designed to absorb and distribute crash energy, protecting occupants in the event of a collision. The inclusion of advanced safety technologies further enhances its safety performance, providing an extra layer of protection. These features work together to make the Legacy Sport a safe and reliable choice for families and individuals alike. The peace of mind that comes with knowing you're driving a safe car is invaluable, and the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport delivers on this front.

Overall, the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport is a reliable and safe car that offers peace of mind. Its strong reliability record and top safety scores make it a smart choice for anyone looking for a dependable and secure vehicle. The combination of standard safety features and advanced safety technologies ensures that you and your passengers are well-protected on the road. This makes the Legacy Sport a standout in its class, offering a compelling alternative to more mainstream options. With its reputation for reliability and commitment to safety, the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport is a car you can trust.

Is the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport Right for You?

So, is the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport the right car for you? If you're looking for a reliable, safe, and practical mid-size sedan with a touch of sporty flair, then it's definitely worth considering. It's not the flashiest or most powerful car on the market, but it offers a good balance of features and value. The standard all-wheel drive is a big plus, especially if you live in an area with challenging weather conditions. The comfortable interior and user-friendly technology make it a great choice for daily driving, and the strong safety ratings provide peace of mind.

However, if you're looking for a true sports car or a luxury sedan, then the Legacy Sport may not be the best fit. While it does have some sporty styling cues and a slightly firmer suspension, it's still a family sedan at heart. And while the interior is comfortable and well-equipped, it's not as luxurious as some of its competitors. Ultimately, the best way to decide if the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see how it feels. Get behind the wheel, experience the handling, and see if it meets your needs and preferences.

Consider your priorities and what you're looking for in a car. If practicality, reliability, and safety are at the top of your list, then the Legacy Sport is a strong contender. If you prioritize performance and luxury, then you may want to consider other options. No matter what you decide, be sure to do your research and choose a car that fits your lifestyle and budget. The 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport is a well-rounded and capable sedan that offers a lot of value for the money. Its combination of features, reliability, and safety make it a smart choice for anyone looking for a practical and dependable car.