The 2010 Legacy is longer, taller, and wider than the previous generation model. And the engines are more powerful and more fuel-efficient than last year's. For 2010, the Legacy is 1.4 inches longer and 3.3 inches taller, and its track is 2.7 inches wider in the front and 3.3 inches wider in the rear. Passengers in the rear seat now have an additional 3.9 inches of legroom and it makes for a much larger door opening. Interior volume is 103 cubic feet, larger than the Toyota Camry's 101.4 cubic feet, but still smaller than the Honda Accord's 106 cubic feet. The Legacy has 14.7 cubic feet of storage in the trunk, and will accommodate four pieces of luggage
Outside, it's easy to identify the Legacy as a Subaru, but the new design will appeal to most midsize sedan shoppers. Subaru has attracted frugal owners in the past, but the Legacy now offers many luxurious technologies and features. The full-frame doors bring noise, vibration, and harshness levels down considerably. The Legacy also includes an auto-up driver's window, larger, more comfortable seats, better materials, and nicer looking gauges than on other Subaru products. Options are limited but include an upgraded Harman-Kardon stereo, Bluetooth phone and iPod connectivity, a backup camera, a moonroof, and a voice-activated navigation system.
The entry-level Legacy I tested is powered by a 2.5-liter Boxer four cylinder engine that produces 170 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque. A new six-speed manual is paired with a viscous center differential that splits power equally between the front and rear wheels. Those opting for the automatic CVT will get a slightly more sophisticated AWD system that uses a slip-clutch and fancy electronics to determine which end of the car needs more torque. Subaru says this is the first application of a CVT with a Boxer engine. The 170 hp does not do much to raise a driving enthusiast's pulse, but it provides enough power for getting around town and getting up I-70 into the mountains. Those considering the 2.5i will likely be most interested in the standard AWD at its $20,690 base price. Equally impressive is the 31-mpg highway rating for the new Legacy.
One of the biggest changes for the 2010 Subaru Legacy is the ride quality thanks to the double-wishbone rear suspension and front Macpherson-strut setup. This combination is what all Subaru’s now use in their suspension design. Body lean is well controlled, and the Legacy is stable going down the road thanks largely to its wider track and longer wheelbase. Braking performance has improved noticeably from last year’s model. Subaru claims a 20% improvement in response from the new brake booster. Though the midsize Legacy is not a sports sedan, it is fun to drive. With fuel prices starting to head up again, the normally aspirated four-cylinder model should be in demand. The Legacy offers a good mix of power, fun, and frugality, and it comes standard with all-wheel drive. A basic 2.5i Legacy with the six-speed manual transmission will cost $20,690 with destination; the CVT transmission is $1000 extra, but there are no other options. Stepping up to the Premium trim level runs another $1000 and comes with an eight-way power driver's seat, 16-inch alloy wheels, a chrome exhaust tip, auto up/down driver's window, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The 2.5i Limited runs $25,690 and adds a power passenger seat, 17-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, mirrors, and wiper de-icers, dual-zone climate control, leather seats, and a premium audio system.
The Subaru Legacy delivers a refined drive that's surprisingly agile in a sensibly sized package that won't bust the budget. Lower trim levels are high on value and Subaru has an almost cult-like following among those who live in snow country.
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