The higher-powered V6 engine in these Legends yields quick acceleration, but gas mileage is no bonus. Our tests ranged from 16-18 mpg in urban driving to the low 20s on the highway. Despite the momentary ignition-retard setup of the automatic transmission, midrange downshifts in earlier models still border on harsh and can get rough under hard acceleration. Performance also slips quite a bit with automatic. Ride quality is smoother and more absorbent than before. The taut ride is never harsh, but falls short of the suppleness displayed by some European rivals. Though stable, it can get harsh and abrupt over rough surfaces. Handling earns high marks, nearly like that of a sports car. Quick turns bring some body lean, but grip, balance, and control are laudable. Standard antilocking makes the brakes feel strong and secure. Though roomier in back than before, this is still essentially a spacious 4-seater. Front-seat occupants might lack head room with the sunroof, or find that the early nontilting, telescoping steering wheel crowds one's thighs. Leg room in the coupe's back seat is scant, and long doors hamper access. Trunks are hardly huge, but have a flat floor and handy bumper-height opening. Instruments and controls are logical, with a feather-touch feel.

Value for the Money
Sporty manners, copious luxury (on LS), worthy workmanship, and stout construction help the Legend rival some more costly premium automobiles--including those from Infiniti and Lexus.