The Legacy is Subaru's most long lived model name. For 2010, the Legacy was again updated making it a bigger and more sophisticated car than its earlier incarnations. There were 5 earlier incarnations that make the current Legacy what it is today. It's grown larger and somewhat less sporty over the years, but it is now more family practical. Subaru is applauded as one of the most receptive companies to customer concerns and complaints about models and correcting them. They have done a commendable job with the new Legacy, where users wanted more space, more power, and a more capable vehicle. The new vehicle is larger, offers Subaru's superb all wheel drive system and offers a variety of engine choices. The styling may not appeal to everyone and the larger engines don't sip the gasoline, but many will be able to overlook these shortcomings and find a wonderful vehicle for all season driving.
The engine choices for the Legacy are the base 2.5 liter four cylinder (opposed horizontally as is a Subaru trademark) making 170 HP and comes mated to either a 6 speed manual or a CVT transmission.
The Range
Bodystyles: Sedan
Engines: 2.5L H-4, 2.5L turbocharged H-4, 3.6L H-6
Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 5-speed automatic, continuously variable transmission
Models: 2.5i, 2.5i Limited, 2.5GT Limited, 3.6R, 3.6R Premium, 3.6R Limited
What's New
For 2010 Subaru completely redesigned the Legacy, stretching the wheelbase, widening the track and raising the height, giving the Legacy the ability to now comfortably transport the whole family. As the model was all-new in 2010, the 2011 Legacy is largely a carryover, with a few minor trim level and option package changes. Folding exterior mirrors now standard on all models.
Exterior
The 2011 Subaru Legacy has a more grown up look to it, providing the sportiness we have come become accustomed to but with a more mature style. But with any design change, some find the new look to be a step backward.
Interior
The Legacy's larger dimensions and clever interior packaging provide much more usable room on the inside, and the cabin materials and overall build quality have been improved. The new Legacy has 3.9-inches of increased rear legroom and 9.5 cubic-feet of additional passenger volume.
Performance & Handling
The outdated four-speed automatic transmission is gone, replaced with a five-speed unit. Subaru's Lineatronic CVT that is working its way through its lineup is a capable continuously variable transmission. A six-speed manual is also available depending upon configuration. The updated 3.6-liter H-6 now gives the Legacy the much needed torque that the outgoing 3.0-liter six lacked. You really notice this when leaving a stop light or making a pass on the freeway.
Safety
The Legacy features four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS) with brake assist, dual front airbags, side seat mounted airbags, curtain first and second row overhead airbags, airbag occupancy sensor, traction control, and all-wheel drive.
EPA Fuel Economy
2.5 GT: 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway
2.5i: 19-23 mpg city/27-31 mpg highway
3.6R: 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Sleek styling
- Standard AWD
- Roomy interior
- Nice-sized trunk
You Won't Like
- Moderate fuel economy
- No automatic transmission with turbo
Sum Up
Better all around vehicle
If You Like This Vehicle
- Toyota Camry
- Honda Accord
- Nissan Altima
- Hyundai Sonata
- Ford Fusion