It’s easy to become excited about a bargain. The problem, of course, is when you dive in without checking all of the details and feel that old buyer’s remorse kick in. Even though the 2011 Subaru Legacy is value priced, you’ll find that it offers style, power and comfort you likely won’t find in sedans with much higher sales stickers.
The Legacy has one of those looks that people either find attractive and distinctive or just don’t like. There really aren’t a lot of people that don’t have a strong reaction one way or the other. I found the boxed fenders and slanted headlamps quite contemporary. I also found the gentle swirls of the wheel wells styled just enough to give an aerodynamic look without becoming a sports car poseur.
There are several different styles of Legacy, of course. I test-drove the Legacy 3.6 R Limited — the top of the line with the retail price starting at $28,295.
| 2011 Subaru Legacy |
| » Engine: 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter, four-cylinder, 265-horsepower, 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder or 256-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 |
| » Transmission: six-speed manual, five-speed automatic or continuously variable transmission |
| » MSRP: Starting at $19,995 |
I’m not a huge engine snob but I did agree with other reviewers that the 256-horsepower, 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine with five-speed automatic transmission was something special. Acceleration was plenty powerful and smooth — who wants to worry about lag when you’re edging into traffic on the Capital Beltway? I am highly attuned to stability in a ride, especially with larger cars. The Subaru Legacy gave me no cause of concern. U.S. News & World Report says the continuously variable transmission (such as those on hybrids) is top in its class. You likely owe it to yourself to test one before making a decision. Just note that your choice will affect gas mileage. Various options mean the difference between 18 to 23 mpg city and 25 to 31 highway.
Of course some of that lower mileage is understandable — and does boost safety. The Legacy is the only midsize sedan on the market that has standard all-wheel drive.
Of course sedans are usually bought for those that plan to travel long distances. The Legacy’s front and back seats were almost sofa-cushy comfortable and supportive. Although the cockpit interior isn’t lush, it was quite practical. Anyone who has spilled coffee or dripped mustard down the front of a dashboard will likely attest that hard plastic is easier for cleanup than fancy woods and leather.
Candidly, I was more pleased that the Legacy I drove had heated seats and mirrors and even a wiper de-icer. Next winter, it’s an easy bet that most drivers who are loading little ones into the car will be more concerned about those features than leather trimmed seats.
The 2011 Legacy is another example of how the legendarily safe Subaru is built for comfort and convenience.
