Honda Legend 3.5. / Honda test drives

When the Honda Legend first appeared on the market, the public immediately took an interest in this sedan, which the Japanese position as premium. In the exterior, sporty notes are easily read: the eye catches the sloping front pillars, the arrow-like hood, and the smooth side line of the body. But the appearance is just the tip of the iceberg.

The main thing is hidden under the hood. There sits a 3.5-liter engine, from which the Japanese managed to squeeze 295 horsepower. For such a large car, whose mass almost reaches two tons, acceleration to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds is a very decent result.

To keep the car confidently on the road, it is equipped with all-wheel drive with the intricate name SH-AWD. This system, combining electronics and mechanics, instantly redistributes torque between the wheels so that in any situation the driver only has to turn the steering wheel. This is especially felt in winter, when the asphalt is either covered with snow, then ice, then clean again.

The seats deserve a special mention: they are comfortable, the lateral support is thoughtfully designed, and even in fast driving you don't have to "roll around" in the cabin. The trim materials are also up to par. But the interface is not easy to master right away — there are so many buttons and menus that it's easy to get confused, although by trial and error you can figure it out. A long test showed: the Legend is a very comfortable car, but when needed, it happily turns into an athlete.

We must also mention fuel efficiency, which also adds to comfort. Fuel consumption stays within 12–15 liters. Only one thing disappoints: the sedan is offered in only one fixed trim level. Take it as is — there's no choice.

SH-AWD

The SH-AWD technology improves stability and maneuverability by redistributing torque between the front and rear axles, as well as between the right and left wheels on the rear axle. Between the axles, the force is divided in a 30:70 ratio, and between the rear wheels — up to 100:0. On uneven surfaces, the system looks at tire grip with the road and, analyzing the steering wheel angle, wheel speed, and lateral accelerations, builds an overall picture of movement. As a result, torque is always distributed optimally — whether you're driving straight or entering a corner.

Driving
The SH-AWD all-wheel drive allows you to keep the car under control in any conditions.

2005 Honda Legend
© Photo: Sergey Krestov, 5 Koleso

Interior
Spacious, with quality trim materials.

Comfort
Spacious inside, comfortable seats, solid trim, and moderately firm suspension.

Safety
According to the EuroNCAP methodology, the Legend earned the maximum rating for adult occupant protection, a four for children, and a three for pedestrians.

Price
Compared to classmates, the price seems inflated.

Advantages and disadvantages

+ Predictable behavior, powerful brakes, cozy cabin.
− Trunk is a bit small, loading height is high, interface is somewhat complex.

Specifications

Make and model — Honda Legend 3.5
Dimensions — 4955x1845x1450 mm
Engine — petrol, 3471 cc, 295 hp/6200 rpm
Transmission — automatic
Dynamics — 250 km/h; 7.3 s to 100 km/h
Competitors — Volvo S80, Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, Infiniti M35