Totally redesigned for 2015, Legacy is one of the few passenger cars with standard all-wheel drive, like nearly every Subaru. Closely related to the Outback wagon, the midsize sedan has long provided excellent all-around value. Ranking among the most sensible and practical cars on the market, Legacy has plenty of safety features and a reputation for fuel efficiency. For any sedan shopper seeking a lot of car for the money, the Legacy needs to be on the shopping list.
What's New for 2016
Two versions of the Subaru Starlink Safety and Security group are new for 2016: Safety Plus, and Safety Plus & Security Plus. Subaru’s available EyeSight driver-assist technology adds Lane Keep Assist. Electric power steering has been retuned for a more linear feel. A new auto on/off mode operates wipers with the headlights.
Choosing Your Subaru Legacy
In its current form, Legacy styling is more enticing than in the past, with a slippery profile that helps boost fuel economy. Most Legacy sedans hold a 2.5-liter four-cylinder “Boxer” (flat) engine that sends 175 horsepower to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which has manual mode and paddle shifters. An Active Grille Shutter system aims to improve fuel economy by reducing wind resistance. The top-rung Legacy 3.6R Limited gets a 3.6-liter V6 that develops 256 horsepower, with a high-torque CVT.
Subaru’s available EyeSight system includes adaptive cruise control, automatic pre-collision braking, and Lane Departure and Sway Warning, as well as the new Lane Keep Assist. If the EyeSight camera detects drifting, Lane Keep directs the vehicle back into its correct lane.
Fuel economy is estimated at 26 mpg city/36 mpg highway with the four-cylinder engine, but only 20/29 mpg (city/highway) with the six-cylinder.
Four trim levels are offered:
Although the six-cylinder 3.6R may be tempting, even that version doesn’t qualify as a sport sedan. Most drivers will be fully satisfied with an energetic, and more fuel-efficient, 2.5i model. Picking a 2.5i Premium provides most of the equipment that buyers in this class typically want, including advanced safety features, for less than $25,000.