For the 2024 Legacy, all trims are fitted with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) — which is a type of automatic. According to multiple spec sources, the transmission is listed as “continuously variable-speed automatic” paired with all-wheel drive. (Edmunds)
Does The Subaru Legacy Have A Automatic Transmission in 2024
✅ Yes — it uses an automatic transmission
For example:
- On the spec breakdown, the transmission is described simply as “Continuously variable-speed automatic”. (Edmunds)
- The Cars.com summary states: “All versions of the Legacy have a continuously variable automatic transmission.” (Cars.com)
- A more technical spec page lists: “Transmission type: continuously variable … in continuous mode gear range 4.065-0.502”. (Automobile Catalog)
Therefore, the answer is yes if you define “automatic transmission” as “you don’t need to shift gears manually.”
🔍 What exactly is the CVT here?
Since “automatic” covers everything from traditional multi-gear automatics to CVTs, it’s worth clarifying how the Legacy’s transmission works:
- The 2024 Legacy uses what Subaru calls its “Lineartronic” CVT (or at least a CVT in that family) in the U.S. market. (Automobile Catalog)
- It’s paired with AWD (Subaru’s “Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive” system) across the board. (CarGurus)
- Performance for the 2.5 L base engine (182 hp / 176 lb-ft) and the 2.4 L turbo option (260 hp / 277 lb-ft) both use the CVT. (Automoblog)
- Specs show pre-programmed “gears” (8 pre-programmed shift points) in the CVT design (for simulated feel) in at least some markets. (Automobile Catalog)
In short: you won’t find a conventional torque-converter multi-gear automatic (like 6-speed, 8-speed, etc) in the U.S. version of the 2024 Legacy; instead you get the CVT “automatic”.
👍 What are the benefits & 👎 what are the trade-offs
Benefits
- Because the CVT allows the engine to stay in its most efficient rev range more often, fuel economy tends to benefit. For instance, in the 2024 Legacy the base engine is rated at about 27 mpg city / 35 mpg highway / 30 mpg combined. (Edmunds)
- The automatic (CVT) means ease of use: no clutch pedal, no need to shift manually, which is great for everyday driving and in adverse weather.
- Standard AWD + automatic is often a desirable combo for those seeking traction and convenience.
Trade-offs
- Some drivers dislike the “feel” of CVTs because the shift-feel and engine rev behaviour differ from traditional automatics. For example, the engine may rise in rpm under load rather than shift, which can feel odd. Indeed, some owners of Subaru CVTs (including in the Legacy) have commented on this. > “My 2018 Legacy has a CVT … when accelerating it pretends to shift … I find it annoying.” (Reddit)
- While Subaru has a good reputation in AWD/boxer engine setups, CVTs have had some controversy in terms of long-term durability in general (not necessarily exclusively Subaru’s). It’s wise to review service intervals, user feedback, and warranty coverage.
- Some reviewers of the 2024 Legacy note that while the ride and space are competitive, the CVT can be noisy or less engaging under hard acceleration. (Cars.com)
🎯 What this means for you as a buyer
- If you want a car that’s automatic (in the sense of “no manual shifting required”), the 2024 Legacy delivers.
- If you care about the “feel” of the transmission (for example you prefer the sensation of fixed gears, sporty shifts, or manual intervention), then you should test-drive and evaluate whether the CVT feel is acceptable to you.
- Because all trims use the same type of automatic (CVT + AWD), your decision will more likely hinge on other features (engine choice, trim level, interior, technology) rather than transmission type.
- For resale or reliability planning: investigate Subaru’s warranty coverage for the transmission, maintenance cost of the CVT, and what owner forums say about longevity (especially if you drive in harsh conditions).
- If you’re in a market outside the U.S., it’s worth checking local specs; sometimes manufacturers offer different transmissions in other markets. But for the U.S. market, the CVT is standard for 2024.
📝 Summary
In summary: yes — the 2024 Subaru Legacy does have an automatic transmission in all trims. More specifically, it uses a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) paired with Subaru’s AWD system. This arrangement offers convenience and efficiency but comes with a different “feel” compared to classic automatic gearboxes. If you’re considering buying one, make sure you like how the transmission performs and feel in real-world driving conditions.