Introduced nearly 20 years ago, the Legacy is the longest running nameplate Subaru has in the United States. Because of the availability of all wheel drive, it has often been chosen as an alternative to trucks and SUVs for those who will have to drive in harsh winter conditions. For 2010, the Legacy’s cabin has been expanded significantly, obviating the problem of an interior that was sometimes criticized as a bit cramped. The 2010 legacy gains sightly over 3 inches in the dimensions of height, width, and wheelbase, while increasing only about one and a half inches in overall lengths and 50 pounds in weight. Thus the increased cabin comfort does not involve a sacrifice of handling in the corners. The 2.5GT Premium is the mid-level trim option, featuring a turbocharged engine, 18 inch alloy wheels, performance tires, larger brakes, a hood scoop, and the All Weather package.
Safety
Standard safety features on the Legacy include anti-lock disc brakes with power assist, stability control, side airbags for the front seat, and side curtain airbags. In crash tests, the Legacy earned top marks for protection of passengers in both front and side impacts.
Interior
The interior is designed to look modern and sleek, at least one assumes that is the impression all the silver paint is trying to convey. A three-spoke steering wheel gives a hint of the sporty nature the Legacy can exhibit. The seats are comfy, and expanding the cabin has had real benefits in the leg room department, particularly for the rear seat riders. Space in the trunk is a fairly pedestrian 14.7 cubic feet.
Driving
For what is after all primarily a family hauler, the Legacy doesn’t handle half bad. The AWD drive traction is very nice in the corners, though the suspension is still tuned for a soft ride and not sport. The ride is quite smooth, and the engine provide adequate acceleration for the needs of most. Overall, an excellent about-town car that can also be relied upon when the weather turns abominable.
Pictures
[nggallery id=81]
- 2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Premium 4 Door
- 2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Premium
- 2010 Subaru Legacy 3.6R Premium
- 2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5 GT Limited
- 2010 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium
