The Subaru Legacy has a single feature that sets it apart in the midsize category: all-wheel drive is standard across the range. This makes it especially appealing for those who live in harsher climates. It also has high safety ratings, competitive pricing and strong resale value.
Subaru has unveiled a 2015 model, so those who value bargain pricing might find it on outgoing 2014 models, especially as the year proceeds.
What’s New for 2014
The All-Weather Package is now standard on the 2.5i Premium, as is an audio system with a 4.3-inch screen, six speakers and satellite radio. The EyeSight Driver-Assist System, using stereo camera technology, is optional on Limited and Premium models.
Choosing Your Subaru Legacy
The Legacy is offered in five trim levels that use one of two engines:
- 2.5i models come with a four-cylinder engine delivering 173 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. It offers reasonable low-end torque, and relatively smooth and quiet operation. Matching this engine with the continuously variable transmission (CVT) will produce the best fuel economy—24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway—while numbers drop to 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway with the base model's standard six-speed manual.
- The 3.6R Limited model utilizes a 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine with 256 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque matched with a five-speed automatic transmission. It delivers 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
2.5i
The base 2.5i isn't lavishly equipped. You'll find a standard six-speed manual transmission, 16-inch wheels, USB/iPod controls and Bluetooth phone connectivity and audio streaming.
2.5i Premium
The 2.5i Premium adds the CVT, an All-Weather Package with heated front seats, heated side mirrors, a windshield wiper de-icer, a 10-way power driver's seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and an audio system with 4.3-inch touch screen, six speakers and SiriusXM Satellite Radio.
2.5i Sport
Stepping up to the 2.5i Sport brings 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, fog lights and a moonroof.
3.6R Limited
Except for its six-cylinder engine and five-speed automatic transmission, specifications for the 3.6R Limited resemble those for the 2.5i Limited.
Options are packaged according to trim levels:
- The base 2.5i offers only the CVT automatic, upgraded wheels and entertainment system upgrades.
- The Premium trim can be equipped with the 440-watt Harman/Kardon audio system, a power moonroof and rearview camera package that's compatible with the audio system's display screen.
- Limited trims offer voice-activated navigation with rearview camera and a power moonroof.
Both Limited and Premium trims are available with the crash-avoidance safety of the EyeSight driver-assist system.
With a forthcoming 2015 Legacy, all 2014 models should come with attractive pricing—get the best your budget will allow, and you can still think of it as a bargain.