Subaru’s Legacy has been a constant in the mid-size sedan category, one of the industry’s most competitive markets. It’s competitors include the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, two of the nation’s best selling cars, meaning that the Legacy has to up its game. An early glimpse of the 2018 model poked its head out earlier this year, and now, we’ve seen the official release.
Things went mostly as planned during the model’s unveiling. The most obvious changes were in styling as Subaru did a refresh throughout the Legacy’s exterior. Redesigned headlights and wheel choices make the new model easy to differentiate from past years, keeping things on the forward track. The Legacy also gains two new color choices including Magnetite Gray Metallic and Crimson Red Pearl.
Revised powertrain options are familiar yet improved. The 2.5L flat-four remains the standard option with a 3.6L horizontal six being available for higher performance. Each of these are set to produce similar numbers to that of its competitors, meaning that power should be dialed in accordingly. An improved CVT gearbox comes much to the chagrin of enthusiasts, but realistically, it’s a logical advancement in powertrain tech for the Legacy.
Chassis tweaks also aim to improve the Legacy’s driving experience. Minor adjustments throughout mean a more enjoyable driving event, keeping Subaru’s adventuresome demographic happy. Paired with the company’s staple AWD system and enhanced powerplants, the Legacy should be improved considerably.
Tech is up to segment standards as well. Apple Car Play and Android Auto make an appearance, providing all of the connectivity features you’d expect from a product of the Legacy’s stature. Model first Steering Responsive Headlights (SRH) are available, enabling the car’s headlamps to steer in relation to the front wheels, optimizing visibility on curvy roads.