Sedan · 1986-2012
Honda Legend
Honda's flagship luxury sedan the one that took on the Germans
Overview
The Legend was Honda's answer to the European luxury sedans, and the foundation for the Acura brand in North America. In Australia, it served as Honda's flagship from 1986 through four generations, offering V6 power, advanced technology, and Honda reliability in a premium package. The final KB generation introduced SH-AWD before being quietly discontinued in 2012.
The Legend arrived in Australia in 1986 as Honda's first luxury car, directly challenging the established European and Japanese luxury sedans. Powered by a 2.5-litre V6 with double-wishbone suspension all round, it offered a level of refinement and engineering sophistication that surprised buyers expecting Honda to stay in the small-car lane. The Legend nameplate was first introduced to Australia in 1986 and sold continuously until 2004, then reintroduced in 2008.
Australian Sales
3,439
Total units sold
| Year | Units sold |
|---|---|
| 1987 | |
| 1989 | |
| 1991 | |
| 1993 | |
| 1995 | |
| 1997 | |
| 1999 | |
| 2001 | |
| 2003 | |
| 2006 | |
| 2008 | |
| 2010 | |
| 2012 |
Source: FCAI VFACTS
1st Gen (KA)
1986-1990
Honda's first luxury car in Australia. A 2.5L V6 with double-wishbone suspension all round. Positioned against the Camry V6 and early Lexus models. Sold modestly but established Honda as more than just small cars.
Variants
| Variant | Engine | Power | Transmission | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (base) 4-door Sedan | 2.0L C20A V6 SOHC | 118kW @ 6,000rpm | 4-speed Automatic | Full specs › |
| (base) 4-door Sedan | 2.0L C20A V6 SOHC | 118kW @ 6,000rpm | 5-speed Manual | Full specs › |
2nd Gen (KA7/KA8)
1991-1996
Larger and more refined. The 3.2L SOHC 24-valve V6 produced 145kW (197PS) and 275Nm of torque. The coupe variant (KA8) was officially sold in Australia and featured a sunroof, leather interior, and a premium equipment list. One of the quietest cabins of its era.
Variants
| Variant | Engine | Power | Transmission | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (base) 2-door Coupe | 3.2L SOHC 24V V6 (145kW / 275Nm) | 145kW @ 5600rpm | 4-speed Automatic | Full specs › |
| (base) 4-door Sedan | 3.2L SOHC 24V V6 (145kW / 275Nm) | 145kW @ 5600rpm | 4-speed Automatic | Full specs › |
3rd Gen (KA9)
1996-2004
The 3.5L V6 made this the most powerful Honda sedan in Australia at the time. Featured Honda's first 5-speed automatic. Sedan only — the coupe was discontinued after the KA8 generation. Low sales meant it was a rare sight on Australian roads.
Variants
| Variant | Engine | Power | Transmission | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (base) 4-door Sedan | 3.5L C35A V6 SOHC VTEC | 176kW @ 6,200rpm | 4-speed Automatic | Full specs › |
4th Gen (KB)
2008-2012
The final Legend in Australia. Featured SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive), a 3.5L VTEC V6 with 217kW, and a tech-laden interior. Struggled against established German rivals and was discontinued in 2012.
Variants
| Variant | Engine | Power | Transmission | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (base) 4-door Sedan | V-Shape 6-cylinder SOHC VTEC | 226kW @ 6,300rpm | 5-speed Sequential Sportshift auto | Full specs › |