Honda Legend In-Depth Review: Hybrid Power And Luxury
Discover why the Honda Legend blends premium comfort, advanced tech, and dynamic performance in a refined package.
The Honda Legend stands as Honda’s flagship sedan, delivering a sophisticated fusion of power, elegance, and technological innovation. Designed for discerning drivers who demand both exhilarating performance and serene comfort, this vehicle redefines expectations in the executive car segment. With its advanced hybrid powertrain and signature all-wheel-drive system, the Legend offers a compelling alternative to European rivals, combining reliability with premium features at a competitive price point.
Powertrain Excellence: Hybrid Innovation Meets Raw Power
At the heart of the Honda Legend lies a sophisticated hybrid system that pairs a robust V6 engine with electric motors for seamless power delivery. The setup produces impressive figures, often exceeding 370 horsepower and substantial torque, enabling effortless acceleration and highway overtaking. This configuration allows short bursts of electric-only driving, ideal for urban environments where silence and efficiency matter most.
Honda’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) elevates the drivetrain further by dynamically distributing torque not just front-to-rear but also side-to-side. This torque-vectoring technology enhances cornering agility, providing neutral handling that inspires confidence on winding roads or in adverse weather. Paired with a smooth multi-speed automatic transmission—often a six- or seven-speed unit with paddle shifters—the Legend delivers precise shifts whether cruising or pushing limits.
| Powertrain Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Total System Output | Up to 377 hp, 462 Nm torque |
| Transmission | 6/7-speed automatic with paddles |
| AWD System | SH-AWD torque vectoring |
| Fuel Economy (Mixed) | ~10.7 L/100km; better in EV mode |
While city driving can push consumption higher due to the powerful engine and AWD, highway efficiency shines, often achieving under 8 L/100km with adaptive cruise engaged. This balance suits long-distance executives who prioritize both thrill and frugality.
Interior Refinement: A Sanctuary of Comfort and Tech
Step inside the Legend, and you’re enveloped in a cabin crafted for luxury. High-quality leather seats with heating, ventilation, and multi-way adjustments cradle occupants, offering exceptional support for extended journeys. The front seats feature electric lumbar and memory functions, while rear passengers enjoy ample legroom and reclining capabilities.
- Dual-zone climate control with rear vents for personalized comfort.
- Premium materials like open-pore wood, brushed metal accents, and soft-touch surfaces.
- Sound-insulating double-layer glass and active noise cancellation for a whisper-quiet ride.
Technology abounds with a large infotainment screen supporting satellite navigation, reversing cameras, and connectivity options. Sunshades—automatic for the rear glass and manual for sides—enhance privacy and comfort on sunny drives. Clever touches like auto-folding rear headrests when the sunroof operates add practicality.
Cargo space, though not class-leading at around 450 liters, accommodates luggage for weekend getaways, with a space-saver spare for emergencies. The overall ambience rivals pricier Germans, emphasizing Honda’s build quality and thoughtful design.
Driving Dynamics: Poise and Precision on Every Road
The Legend excels in delivering a composed ride that absorbs imperfections while maintaining sharp handling. Its double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension tunes for compliance without sacrificing sportiness. SH-AWD ensures sure-footed grip, making it ideal for twisty roads or slippery conditions.
Steering is direct and communicative, providing feedback that engages without fatigue. On highways, the sedan glides effortlessly, isolating occupants from wind and road noise. In town, its refined idle and electric mode make it a stress-free urban cruiser. While not the thirstiest in its class, spirited driving reveals the V6’s thirst, a trade-off for its naturally aspirated punch.
Refinement is key: tyre noise is minimal, and the cabin remains a cocoon of calm even at speed.
Safety and Driver Assistance: Cutting-Edge Protection
Honda equips the Legend with a comprehensive safety suite earning top ratings, such as ANCAP’s five stars. Standard features include multiple airbags, stability control (Vehicle Stability Assist), ABS, and traction aids. Advanced systems like Honda Sensing Elite introduce Level 3 autonomy on compatible highways, enabling hands-free driving with high-definition mapping and LiDAR.
- Adaptive cruise control that excels in traffic.
- Lane-keeping and collision mitigation.
- Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
These innovations position the Legend as a leader in proactive safety, reducing driver workload on long hauls.
Design and Styling: Understated Elegance
Exterior-wise, the Legend adopts a mature, confident stance with sleek lines, LED lighting, and a bold grille. Recent iterations feature full-width taillamps and integrated exhausts for a modern upscale look. It’s not flashy but exudes quality, with dimensions similar to mid-size sedans like the Accord yet packed with luxury.
Wheel options and subtle badging highlight its premium status without ostentation, appealing to buyers valuing substance over show.
Market Positioning: Value Against Premium Rivals
Priced below many German counterparts, the Legend offers loaded standard equipment: xenon headlights, sunroof, heated seats, and nav. It competes with Audi A6, BMW 5-Series, and Mercedes E-Class by emphasizing driving purity, hybrid efficiency, and Honda reliability over badge prestige.
Critics note its ageing design in older models, but newer versions refresh the appeal with advanced tech. For families or executives, it provides luxury without the maintenance headaches of Europeans.
Pros and Cons: Balanced Verdict
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional handling via SH-AWD | Smaller boot than rivals |
| Luxurious, quiet cabin | Higher city fuel use |
| Advanced safety tech | Less prestigious badge |
| Strong value for features | Space-saver spare only |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes the Honda Legend’s AWD unique?
SH-AWD uses electric motors for torque vectoring, improving cornering and stability beyond traditional systems.
Is the Legend fuel-efficient?
It achieves good highway economy (~8 L/100km) and EV mode in city, though mixed driving averages 10-11 L/100km.
Does it have autonomous driving?
Yes, Honda Sensing Elite offers Level 3 hands-free on highways in select markets.
How does it compare to Lexus GS?
The Legend matches in handling and tech but offers better value and Honda reliability.
What’s the boot space like?
Approximately 452 liters, sufficient for daily needs but trails some competitors.
Long-Term Ownership: Reliability and Costs
Honda’s reputation shines through with the Legend’s durable components and low ownership costs. Hybrid batteries prove reliable, and the V6 engine requires standard maintenance. Resale holds steady due to build quality, making it a smart used buy.
In summary, the Honda Legend delivers flagship luxury with engaging dynamics, positioning it as a hidden gem for savvy buyers.
References
- Honda Legend Review — Drive.com.au. 2023-05-15. https://www.drive.com.au/reviews/honda-legend-review/
- 2017 Honda Legend Review (With Video) — Go Flat Out PH. 2018-06-13. https://goflatoutph.com/2018/06/13/2017-honda-legend-review-with-video/
- Honda Legend (2006 – 2010) used car review — RAC Drive. 2022-08-10. https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/car-reviews/honda/legend/legend-2006-2010/
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