Subaru Legacy

In the melee that is the midsize sedan segment, Subaru's Legacy stands out with its standard all-wheel drive and rich selection of engine options. Although less popular in the sunshine states, it is a major player in the snowbelt. Historically AWD has defined Subaru, but other characteristics, such as its roomy cabin and generous standard content, should appeal to buyers in sunnier regions. It doesn't enjoy the degree of recognition of competitors like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, but it is certainly a viable alternative to them.

Legacy is divided into eight trim levels that vary in content and engines. Trim designations, like "Premium" and "Limited," feature somewhat different standard content according to the engine. Prices increase from the $20,690 of the base 2.5i to $30,690 for the 2.5GT Limited. Situated about halfway along this range is the $25,690 Legacy 2.5i Limited like my test Subaru.

Varying degrees of punch are delivered by the three engines powering the Legacy lineup. In addition to the 170-horsepower horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine found in the 2.5i, 2.5i Premium and 2.5i Limited, is the 256-horsepower horizontally opposed six-cylinder that powers the 3.6R, 3.6R Premium and 3.6R Limited. A 265-horsepower turbocharged version of the 2.5-liter engine supplies the go for the 2.5GT Premium and 2.5GT Limited.

Three different transmissions hustle engine production to the wheels. Standard in the 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 2.5GT Premium and 2.5GT Limited is a six-speed manual transmission. A $1,000 option in the 2.5i and 2.5i Premium is a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with a manual-shift mode that is the standard tranny in the 2.5i Limited. The R-designated six-cylinder versions all come with a five-speed automatic.

Earning the best fuel economy numbers are the "i" versions equipped with the CVT. The EPA estimates their fuel consumption at 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. When the manual tranny is teamed with the same engine, the estimates drop to 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. Going with one of the other two more powerful engines drops the numbers even further to 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.

Even the normally aspirated four-cylinder bound to the CVT delivers very respectable acceleration. Goosing the accelerator won't press you into the seat back, but it will initiate an immediate and measurable response. Either of the other two engines is more spirited, and consequently, more fun to drive. But, of course, the trade off is a significant drop in fuel economy.

Four-wheel disc brakes monitored by an antilock system are standard on every Legacy, as are traction control electronic stability control, emergency braking assist and electronic brakeforce distribution. Also included in the base price of every Legacy are six airbags.

Delivering a pliant ride, the four-wheel independent suspension consists of MacPherson struts up front and a double-wishbone setup in the rear. This is a suspension focused on passenger comfort more so than high-speed cornering.

Subaru redesigned Legacy for 2010. In doing so, it has added in about 60 more pounds. This isn't really much when you consider the newer Legacy is 1.6 inches longer, 3.6 inches wider and 3.2 inches taller than last year's edition. Exterior styling is more refined on the new Legacy. Longer headlamps follow the outside lines of the more chiseled hood. The tail lights are longer as well and now extend into the trunk lid. The profile is more coupe-like with a more curved roof line.

Not a radical departure from last year's design, interior styling, however, is more sophisticated than in last year's sedan. Some of this comes from a center stack that appears less busy. The lines and shape of the dashboard also add to the enhanced look.

The seating is arranged for five. Offering moderate lateral support, the front bucket seats are firm and comfortable. In the 2.5i Limited, the driver's seat has eight-way power adjustment while the passenger seat has four-way. They are heated as well. The 60/40 split folding backseat has some definition and is more inviting than might be expected.

Simple to operate, the controls for the nine-speaker harman/kardon-imbued audio system in the Limited with its in-dash, six-disc CD changer and iPod integration are perched atop the dual-zone automatic climate controls in the center stack. Standard in every Legacy, redundant audio controls are also located on the tilt-telescoping steering wheel.

Front- and rear-seat occupants alike find plenty of head and legroom. At 37.8 inches, legroom is up significantly from the previous Legacy. The redesigned sedan has slightly more rear legroom than Accord and slightly less than Camry. The same goes for Legacy's 14.7 cubic feet of trunk space: The Camry has slightly more and the Accord slightly less.

Decently equipped, even the base Legacy 2.5i comes with full power accessories, air conditioning, and a four-speaker audio system with CD player and iPod integration.

Subaru's Legacy might not leap to mind when considering midsize sedans, but its value and user-friendly demeanor shouldn't be ignored. Roomy, comfortable and affordably priced, it can go toe to toe with the big dogs of the segment. Sure AWD isn't as big a draw in Miami as it is in Buffalo; but even on rain-soaked streets, AWD's added stability provides some extra peace of mind.

By Russ Heaps
MyCarData