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We really liked the previous generation of the Subaru Legacy. Despite being a little small for a midsize sedan, it flaunted a sporty flair that charmed us in addition to being equipped with a competent, all-wheel drivetrain to survive our harsh winters.
However, for the last two years, the Legacy has gotten bigger... much bigger. It's now as big as a Toyota Camry in order to draw more mainstream-sedan buyers. The Legacy is a victim of conformity in its category; and yet, it's got a lot going for it and deserves more recognition from those who seek a comfortable, quiet and refined car.
On a cloud
We like to hate continuously variable transmissions, or CVTs, but I can't criticize the one that now equips the Legacy. It extracts the most from the 2.5L flat-four engine. From a standing start at least (regarding throttle response) it feels as though we're exploiting more than the published ratings of 170 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque, and the gearbox contributes to that feeling.
Our Legacy 2.5i dashed from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.7 seconds, and performed better than the version that participated in our latest midsize sedan comparison test. It also proved more fuel efficient, averaging 8.8L/100km.
Thanks to its refined suspension and its 16” touring tires, the basic versions of the Legacy provide a very comfortable ride, while road noise is well isolated. On the other hand, the car's handling capabilities don't really encourage dynamic driving. At 100 km/h on the highway, the engine spins at only 1,800 rpm. Aboard this Legacy, life is relaxed and soothing.
A major attraction of this sedan, as in most Subarus, is its all-wheel drivetrain. The full-time system is one of the best for tackling slippery surfaces. However, this type of setup theoretically penalizes fuel economy. Among the Legacy's rivals, only the Ford Fusion and Suzuki Kizashi offer AWD.
Sober environment
The Legacy's cockpit benefits from a very good finish, using quality materials. The design is an example of tastefulness and simplicity, although its appearance is rather sober. On the other hand, with enemies such as the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, as well as the targeted customer base, there's really no need to take risks with a more adventurous style.
The silver-painted trim on the dash and door panels add contrast, but is always vulnerable to scratches. Nonetheless, the switchgear is well laid out, and the instruments are easy to read.
What bothers me the most is the Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity system in this version of the Legacy. It's a module that fits into the centre stack's storage compartment and uses its own speakers; it looks dealer installed, not a factory fit, and breaks up the harmony of the dash's appearance. However, it works and that's the important thing, I guess.
Since its 2010 model year redesign, the Legacy obviously offers lots of interior space for front, and especially rear, occupants. While not as cavernous as the immense Accord, the Subie is as spacious as the Camry, the Mazda6 and the Chevrolet Malibu. As for the trunk, it has a below-average volume of 415 litres; in addition, the short decklid doesn't swivel out of the way when loading stuff in.
Competitive pricing, with bonus AWD
The 2012 Subaru Legacy 2.5i with the Convenience package retails for $26,395. Its standard feature list includes air conditioning, cruise control, a telescopic steering column, automatic headlights, a power driver's seat, heated front seats and 16” alloy wheels.
In comparison, a Toyota Camry LE with the Upgrade package costs $26,120, while a Honda Accord SE costs $26,090. With a similar price and feature content, you can get a Legacy with the added bonus of all-wheel drive.
To get AWD in the Ford and the Suzuki, you must dish out $31,499 for the Fusion SEL AWD and $27,995 for the Kizashi S.
We miss the old, smaller and more dynamic Legacy. However, we must admit that Subaru has created a strong adversary for the best midsize sedans, especially in terms of interior space and ride comfort. And when we look at the segment's sales numbers, we can't blame Subie for the Legacy's metamorphosis. If this is the type of sedan you're looking for, you'll be impressed by its space, comfort and safety.
However, for the last two years, the Legacy has gotten bigger... much bigger. It's now as big as a Toyota Camry in order to draw more mainstream-sedan buyers. The Legacy is a victim of conformity in its category; and yet, it's got a lot going for it and deserves more recognition from those who seek a comfortable, quiet and refined car.
 |
On a cloud
We like to hate continuously variable transmissions, or CVTs, but I can't criticize the one that now equips the Legacy. It extracts the most from the 2.5L flat-four engine. From a standing start at least (regarding throttle response) it feels as though we're exploiting more than the published ratings of 170 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque, and the gearbox contributes to that feeling.
Our Legacy 2.5i dashed from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.7 seconds, and performed better than the version that participated in our latest midsize sedan comparison test. It also proved more fuel efficient, averaging 8.8L/100km.
Thanks to its refined suspension and its 16” touring tires, the basic versions of the Legacy provide a very comfortable ride, while road noise is well isolated. On the other hand, the car's handling capabilities don't really encourage dynamic driving. At 100 km/h on the highway, the engine spins at only 1,800 rpm. Aboard this Legacy, life is relaxed and soothing.
A major attraction of this sedan, as in most Subarus, is its all-wheel drivetrain. The full-time system is one of the best for tackling slippery surfaces. However, this type of setup theoretically penalizes fuel economy. Among the Legacy's rivals, only the Ford Fusion and Suzuki Kizashi offer AWD.
 |
| Base versions of the Legacy are equipped with a 2.5L flat-four engine that develops 170 horsepower. (Photo: Philippe Champoux) |
Sober environment
The Legacy's cockpit benefits from a very good finish, using quality materials. The design is an example of tastefulness and simplicity, although its appearance is rather sober. On the other hand, with enemies such as the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, as well as the targeted customer base, there's really no need to take risks with a more adventurous style.
The silver-painted trim on the dash and door panels add contrast, but is always vulnerable to scratches. Nonetheless, the switchgear is well laid out, and the instruments are easy to read.
What bothers me the most is the Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity system in this version of the Legacy. It's a module that fits into the centre stack's storage compartment and uses its own speakers; it looks dealer installed, not a factory fit, and breaks up the harmony of the dash's appearance. However, it works and that's the important thing, I guess.
Since its 2010 model year redesign, the Legacy obviously offers lots of interior space for front, and especially rear, occupants. While not as cavernous as the immense Accord, the Subie is as spacious as the Camry, the Mazda6 and the Chevrolet Malibu. As for the trunk, it has a below-average volume of 415 litres; in addition, the short decklid doesn't swivel out of the way when loading stuff in.
 |
| The cockpit is very spacious, while its sober appearance benefits from a quality finish. (Photo: Philippe Champoux) |
Competitive pricing, with bonus AWD
The 2012 Subaru Legacy 2.5i with the Convenience package retails for $26,395. Its standard feature list includes air conditioning, cruise control, a telescopic steering column, automatic headlights, a power driver's seat, heated front seats and 16” alloy wheels.
In comparison, a Toyota Camry LE with the Upgrade package costs $26,120, while a Honda Accord SE costs $26,090. With a similar price and feature content, you can get a Legacy with the added bonus of all-wheel drive.
 |
| The Legacy 2.5i with the Convenience package is offered at a competitive price of $26,395 before taxes, freight and delivery charges. (Photo: Philippe Champoux) |
To get AWD in the Ford and the Suzuki, you must dish out $31,499 for the Fusion SEL AWD and $27,995 for the Kizashi S.
We miss the old, smaller and more dynamic Legacy. However, we must admit that Subaru has created a strong adversary for the best midsize sedans, especially in terms of interior space and ride comfort. And when we look at the segment's sales numbers, we can't blame Subie for the Legacy's metamorphosis. If this is the type of sedan you're looking for, you'll be impressed by its space, comfort and safety.