Honda introduced the third generation of its flagship model, the Legend, in 1996 as a sedan-only body version and aimed directly to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
The Japanese carmaker tried its best to make an executive sedan able to offer a comfortable ride and good performances. It was its key-vehicle to enter in the premium segment, but it couldn’t match the engine choice offered by the European carmakers.

While its look resembled its predecessor, the third generation of the Legend was a new vehicle. It showed the same flat-horizontal lines on the hood and trunk lid. Other European carmakers might have inspired it, but the front grille and the headlights were similar to the Legend’s second generation. Its body-colored bumpers and side moldings made it look like an executive vehicle.

Inside, there was enough room for five adult-sized occupants. Its center tunnel was narrow and short. The wide heated seats with leather upholstery were designed for comfort. In the instrument cluster, Honda installed three binocular-style dials, where the speedometer took center stage while the tachometer was on the left. Its wood-trims on the dashboard and the ergonomic center stack layout made the car looks more upmarket.

Unfortunately, Honda offered the 1996 Legend with only one engine option, a 3.5-liter V-6 that provided 205 hp. It was paired as standard to a four-speed automatic transmission.