Honda Legend 3.5 V6 EX Full Review: Power, Tech, Value

The Honda Legend 3.5 V6 EX stands out as a flagship luxury sedan that combines robust engineering with cutting-edge technology. Powered by a high-output V6 engine and equipped with Honda’s innovative Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), this model delivers impressive performance while prioritizing driver safety and comfort. Priced competitively at around £39,000, it challenges premium rivals by offering advanced features typically reserved for higher-end vehicles.

Engine Performance and Drivetrain Dynamics

At the heart of the Honda Legend lies its all-aluminium 3.5-litre VTEC V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and substantial torque that peaks at 5,000rpm. While the power figures impress on paper, real-world driving reveals a need to rev the engine hard to unlock its full potential, making it feel somewhat peaky in everyday scenarios. The engine pairs seamlessly with a five-speed automatic transmission featuring paddle shifters, allowing for manual control that enhances the sporty driving experience.

Honda’s SH-AWD system is a game-changer, distributing torque to individual wheels—up to 70% to the rear and 100% across the rear axle. This torque vectoring not only boosts stability but also makes the hefty sedan feel surprisingly agile, especially in corners where it instills confidence with minimal understeer. Reviewers note that this setup transforms the Legend’s handling, making it nimbler than its size suggests and competitive against more expensive German luxury cars.

Advanced Safety Innovations

The Legend pioneered several safety technologies that were ahead of their time. The Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS) uses a camera to monitor road markings and gently corrects steering to maintain lane position, reducing driver fatigue on long journeys. Paired with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), it forms a comprehensive driver assistance suite.

Additional features include the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), which detects potential frontal collisions and applies brakes if the driver doesn’t react. These systems, standard on higher trims, contribute to slightly better fuel efficiency thanks to electric power steering. Other highlights encompass night vision, heads-up display, and lane departure warnings, making the Legend a tech-forward choice.

• LKAS: Camera-based lane monitoring with steering correction.
• ACC: Maintains speed and distance from vehicles ahead.
• CMBS: Automatic emergency braking for collision avoidance.
• SH-AWD Integration: Enhances stability during assisted maneuvers.

Interior Comfort and Luxury Appointments

Inside, the Legend offers a refined cabin with leather upholstery, chrome accents, and high-quality fit-and-finish characteristic of Honda’s Japanese engineering. The cockpit feels modern and upscale, a significant upgrade from previous generations, with ample space for five passengers. Features like the Krell audio system deliver exceptional sound quality, particularly in mid-range and highs, while the heads-up display provides clear, legible information without distracting from the road.

Comfort is prioritized with supportive seats, a quiet ride on normal roads, and all the expected luxury kit as standard. From jewel-like LED headlights to responsive brake pedals adjustable via drive modes, every detail enhances the driving experience. The large fuel tank supports respectable range despite thirstier urban driving.

Fuel Efficiency and Practicality

Expectations for fuel economy are tempered by the V6 powertrain and AWD. Combined figures hover around 11.3-11.8L/100km, with real-world tests yielding about 22mpg on mixed routes—thirstier in city conditions at up to 15.6L/100km but more efficient on highways at 7.9L/100km. The 355-mile range is adequate, though rivals like the Lexus GS offer marginally better efficiency.

Practicality shines in its spacious boot, family-friendly seating, and premium unleaded petrol compatibility. Maintenance is straightforward with Honda’s reliable service network, and build quality ensures longevity, even for high-mileage examples.

Driving Experience: From Highways to Twisty Roads

On motorways, the Legend excels with radar cruise control smoothing traffic flow and SH-AWD providing unwavering grip, even in wet conditions. It’s a ‘dream’ for highway cruising, feeling solid like a classic Mercedes. In bends, torque vectoring reduces understeer, making it handle nimbly for its 1,865kg weight.

The transmission shifts smoothly, holding gears during spirited drives, while paddle shifters add engagement. Brakes are strong and modulable, with customizable feel. Overall, it offers tremendous grip and confidence, though it lacks the polished feel of pricier competitors.

Rivals and Market Positioning

The Legend competes with the Audi A6, Lexus GS, and BMW 5-Series, undercutting them on price while matching or exceeding in tech. Its SH-AWD gives it an edge in handling over front-biased rivals, and safety suites rival premium brands. At £8,000 less than the Lexus, it appeals to value-conscious buyers seeking innovation without the badge premium.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Advanced SH-AWD for superior handling; pioneering safety tech; strong V6 power; excellent build quality; competitive pricing.
• Cons: Thirsty fuel consumption; peaky engine needing high revs; not as refined as German rivals.

Long-Term Ownership and Reliability

Honda’s reputation for durability holds true here, with full service histories yielding reliable high-mileage performance. Everything from radar systems to torque vectoring remains functional years later, making used examples bargains under £40,000. Warranty and parts availability support worry-free ownership.

FAQs

What makes the Honda Legend’s handling special?

The SH-AWD system vectors torque to individual wheels, improving cornering agility and stability.

Is the Legend fuel-efficient?

No, it averages 11.3L/100km combined, higher in city driving due to its powerful V6 and AWD.

Does it have modern safety features?

Yes, including LKAS, ACC, CMBS, and night vision—advanced for its era.

How does it compare to Lexus GS?

Cheaper with better handling via SH-AWD, but thirstier and less refined.

Is it reliable for high mileage?

Absolutely, with solid build quality and working tech even on 2007 models.