Subaru Will Discontinue the Legacy Sedan in 2025

As they say, “All good things must come to an end,” and it seems the same is true for the long-running Subaru Legacy. Subaru recently announced that the 2025 model will be the Legacy’s last year.
The Legacy was first introduced in 1989 as the first Subaru designed specifically for the American market and the first to be built in the automaker’s Lafayette, Indiana, facility. After nearly 1.3 million new cars sold in the United States alone, what is behind the auto manufacturer’s decision to discontinue production?
Driving Factors: Why Subaru is Saying Goodbye
The year 1989 was exciting for the automotive industry. New automotive technologies hit the automobile market, and fresh, sleek new looks rounded out the decade, pushing out the big blocky designs that captivated much of the decade.
It was also the year when BMW released its luxury coupe, the 8-series; Mercedes-Benz unveiled the fourth-generation SL-Class Roadster (the R129) after an 18-year run of the third generation; the first MX-5 Miata was introduced; first-generation Honda/Acura NSX hit the market as the first mass-produced car to have a fully aluminum body; and the Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 made a splash with all-wheel-drive.
Then, of course, the Subaru Legacy model line hit the market. On September 11, 1989, the first Subaru Legacy rolled off the line in a plant originally known as Subaru-Isuzu Automotive. The Legacy was a game-changer for the US-based Japanese manufacturer.
It was introduced as a budget-friendly midsize sedan, comparable to the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry, available in both 5-door wagon and 4-door sedan, in front-wheel-drive (FWD) or an all-wheel drive (AWD) package. Since then, it’s gone through seven beloved generations in North America, though the 7th generation was never introduced in Japan, as they stopped production of the Legacy in June 2020.
So, what sparked the decision to end production of a vehicle that has been a mainstay in the Subaru model lineup for nearly 40 years? Ultimately, the market has shifted away from passenger cars to SUVs and crossovers. Subaru has also expressed interest in focusing on the electric car market thanks to the growing popularity of electric vehicles.
Consumer Shifts: A Changing Preference Landscape
The market has always seemingly fluctuated back and forth between larger vehicles with plenty of cargo space and small, fuel-efficient passenger vehicles. It was just over ten years ago when large, gas-guzzling vehicles were being pushed out of the market in exchange for the cars with the best creature comforts, safety features, and fuel economy. The automakers that fluctuate with the needs of the market are the ones that survive.
Current Trends
The automotive industry has undergone some dramatic shifts over the last few years. The demand for larger and more versatile vehicles with more spacious cargo areas and higher driving positions, like crossovers and SUVs, has increased dramatically.
In fact, since 2010 alone, the SUV/crossover market has grown tenfold, with a whopping 330 million on the road worldwide. In 2022, this platform accounted for nearly 46% of all vehicles sold. Americans prefer to have a more spacious ride when commuting, on road trips or outdoor adventures, and to haul their families around. Not only that, but SUVs and crossovers come standard with advanced safety features and can even have towing capabilities.
Environmental and Economic Factors
Simultaneously, the demand for high-tech and eco-friendly electric vehicles has absorbed much of the passenger vehicle landscape. Fuel efficiency and increased concern for the environment have reshaped buyer priorities away from passenger vehicles and sedans like the Subaru Legacy.
When electric vehicles (EVs) first launched, the purchasing demographic was skewed toward individuals with access to disposable income and cared deeply about the environment. Many Americans could not justify the high price tag that accompanied buying a new EV, even if it meant helping the environment and lower maintenance and fuel costs.
That is no longer the case. With government incentives, lowered price points, and perks like not stopping at the fuel pump when gas prices are spiking, electric vehicles are the fastest-growing vehicle market. Unfortunately, the allure of high-tech, eco-friendly EVS has significantly diminished the gas-powered passenger vehicle market, pushing even the sporty 4-door sedan out of the spotlight.
One Last Try
Subaru attempted to reignite the interest and recapture the market with the seventh generation of the Legacy in 2020 and a redesign in 2023. While the redesign spurred a 13% increase in sales in 2023, they so far have fallen back down 13% this year. To put it into perspective, even with the 13% increase, only 25,510 Legacys were sold, a long cry from 65,000 cars sold in 2016.
These dismal numbers have forced the Legacy to take its final bow. The 2025 model year Subaru Legacy will be available at dealerships in spring, with a starting price tag of $26,040.
Subaru’s Future Lineup and Innovation
However, the discontinuation of the Legacy does not mark the end of Subaru. Although some loyal Subaru owners hope that the Legacy may make a reappearance in the EV market, no hints of that nature have been released by Subaru. However, the company did confirm its intention to produce eight EV models by 2028.
Like other car manufacturers, Subaru took a slow-start approach to the electric car era, but they’ve started off strong with the Solterra SUV EV, which debuted in 2023. Ultimately, their goal is to produce 400,000 EV units annually by 2028, with four new electric crossovers to launch by the end of 2026. However, the vast majority of these vehicles will be produced in Japan, despite 70% of Subaru sales coming from the American market.
Going forward, Subaru intends to focus on advanced safety features, attractive styling, and state-of-the-art technology. Their goal is to create technology that makes Subaru different, excelling in both peace of mind and enjoyment. With the adaptation of AI, they plan to monitor drivers’ states, correct their perception, judgment, and control, and reduce accidents. With these adjustments, they’re following the trends from the last few years and will hopefully meet market needs.
Impact on Current Legacy Owners
If you are one of the tried-and-true loyal Subaru Legacy sedan owners, the discontinuation may impact you in more ways than one, including the resale value, the availability of replacement Subaru legacy parts, and ongoing support. We’ll explore the ins and outs to help you prepare for what lies ahead beyond its last year.
Subaru Legacy Resale Value
When a vehicle is discontinued, it can be difficult to predict how the change will impact the resale value. If a car is discontinued because it isn’t reliable, the release of a new model, or has a poor design, then typically, it will drop in resale value. In other cases, such as limited edition vehicles, the value can skyrocket as a collector’s piece.
Subaru is well-known for its longevity and durability. They typically can go years with routine car maintenance and require minimal repairs. And, according to reports, Subarus hold their resale value better than any other vehicle on the market.
Since the Subaru Legacy was neither a lemon nor a limited run, it could be one of those vehicles that maintain a normal resale value, perhaps with a small initial drop, until it becomes a nostalgic collector’s item. With Subaru’s push to go to SUVs and electric vehicles, a fuel-efficient, gas-powered all-wheel-drive (AWD) passenger vehicle may have its following, especially with enthusiasts and its dedicated fan base.
Parts Availability
Once a vehicle model is slotted for discontinuation, it’s only a matter of time before the parts become difficult, if not impossible, to find. Of course, this also depends on the number of vehicles made, the popularity of the vehicle, and how long the manufacturer continues to produce replacement parts.
Generally, original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are produced for about 6-10 years after the final run of a popular model; however, they’re only required to continue producing parts until the last factory warranty expires.
Parts pricing can also vary. If a specific vehicle part is in high demand without a lot of stock on hand, the price of the replacement Subaru parts may spike. However, if the Subaru manufacturer decides to continue producing parts longer or has ample stock on hand, then pricing may stay the same.
Subaru Support
The Subaru warranty is a factory warranty that lasts for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. This comprehensive, bumper-to-bumper warranty protects Subaru Legacy owners from paying expensive car repair prices during unexpected mechanical breakdowns. New Subarus also comes with a Powertrain Limited Warranty, protecting the vehicle’s most important parts for up to five years years or 60,000 miles. Subaru will continue to honor these car warranties with the 2025 Subaru Legacy.
Extended Warranties: Protecting Your Subaru
Although your new 2025 Subaru will come with a factory warranty, eventually, it will expire. No matter how reliable a vehicle is, with age comes the increased likelihood of mechanical breakdown. An extended car warranty for your Subaru Legacy (or any other discontinued car model) can give you peace of mind even as your vehicle ages and the odometer climbs.
If you own a discontinued model year, you may be concerned with the increased likelihood of expensive car repairs, especially since replacement part prices can fluctuate dramatically. An extended auto warranty, also known as an auto protection plan or a vehicle service contract (VSC), can provide a financial safety net for your wallet, making sure that even expensive car repairs are taken care of. With customizable and comprehensive warranty plans, your Subaru Legacy can have eligible repairs taken care of even after it is no longer in production.
At Endurance Warranty, our plans are customizable in more ways than one. You can choose which parts you need covered (and which you don’t), you can have flexible payment plans, and you can choose any ASE Certified mechanic to do your repairs. Plus, every vehicle protection plan is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it out before you commit.
As an additional bonus, if you buy an extended vehicle warranty through a third-party provider, like Endurance, you’ll have the confidence that your Legacy lasts for years. Additional standard perks also come with Endurance plans, including 24/7 roadside assistance, rental car coverage, and trip interruption reimbursement.
If you really want to ensure your discontinued vehicle is protected, you can also add on a year’s worth of FREE Endurance Elite Benefits.* You’ll get tire repair and replacement, key fob replacement, collision discounts, and more. That way, even if you own your car longer than Subaru can provide support, you know you’re still taken care of when disaster strikes.
Find the Best Subaru Extended Car Warranty for You
Just because your favorite vehicle has been discontinued doesn’t mean you have to go without protection. We can help you find the best auto protection plan for your Subaru Legacy based on your lifestyle and budget.
Our award-winning customer service team is on standby to answer your questions. Call (800) 253-8203 today or request a FREE quote for a Subaru extended warranty — with no obligation to buy. If you aren’t quite ready to talk to a representative, you can always shop online to see your price now.
Find answers to your frequently asked questions (FAQs) and more auto news on the Endurance Warranty blog. Find out what the expected costs are of maintaining a Subaru, get a breakdown of our Subaru auto protection plans, find out how to use an extended car warranty, and more.
Amanda has over 10 years of experience in marketing direct-to-consumer products and services. She is the Content Marketing Manager at Endurance Warranty Services, helping to inform drivers about comprehensive auto protection plans and the latest news in the automotive industry.