2010 Subaru Legacy - Automobile Review

Subaru has always been a company that offers distinctly different vehicles than most of its competitors. For example, all Subaru vehicles sport full time all wheel drive that enables their vehicles to travel through rain or snow with ease while competitors offer only front wheel drive or rear wheel drive models. Another distinction in the Subaru lineup of vehicles is the use of a Boxer style engine that is only utilized by one other manufacturer, Porsche. Further distinguishing Subaru vehicles from the competition is the fact that all Subaru models score the highest crash safety rating available.

Subaru's focus on standing out from the crowd has been a company strong point for years. Recent models from the company, aim to become more mainstream and gain more widespread appeal. One such model from Subaru is the 2010 Subaru Legacy. The Legacy is the company's midsize, flagship sedan model that fits into the family sedan category. For 2010, several changes were made to the Legacy which improves the vehicle in many ways.

The redesigned 2010 Legacy is now among the top midsize sedans available. Its roomier and quieter than its predecessor and offers much improved fuel economy. The 2010 Legacy is available in eight distinct trim lines to appeal to all buyers. The base price ranges from a low of $19,995 on up to a high of $29,995. Listed in order of least costly to most costly, the trim lines include the 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Limited, 3.6R, 3.6R Premium, 3.6R Limited, 2.5 GT Premium, and the 2.5GT Limited.

Along with eight trim lines, the Legacy also offers three engine choices. The base engine is the 2.5 liter four cylinder that outputs 170 hp, then there is the 3.6 liter 6 cylinder that outputs 256 hp, and finally the top engine choice is the 2.5 liter turbocharged four cylinder that outputs 265 hp. The Legacy sedan is also offered with three transmission choices including a 6 speed manual, a 5 speed automatic, and a continuously variable automatic transmission.

With all of the drivetrain and trim choices out of the way, let's get down to the driving experience. As with virtually all Subaru products, their is an emphasis on the fun to drive nature with the Legacy. The Legacy has a sound ride and solid handling. All engines are at least sporty, with the turbocharged option as a real screamer. The responsive handling is coupled with accurate steering, the the steering is light on feedback and lack a strong on center feel. The Legacy displays a lot of body lean in tight, fast turns but overall grip is solid.

With performance out of the way, we will now move on to the interior. Perhaps the biggest shortcoming of the Legacy comes when one sits inside the vehicle. Though the legacy offers a good driving position and plenty of room for everyone on-board, the interior lacks the quality of competitive vehicles. Fit and finish is strong as is the layout of the major controls, but hard plastics are found throughout the interior giving the vehicle a cheaper overall appearance than competing products such as the Honda Accord. The rear seat back fold down to expand the cargo room and add versatility to the four door sedan.

What the Legacy lacks in interior appeal, it more than makes up for in features that cannot be found on competitive vehicles. Features such as a turbocharged engine and all wheel drive are virtually non-existent at the price that the Legacy sells for. If you crave a vehicle a little different than the norm, and can look past the budget interior, the Legacy may be perfectly suited for you.