By Larry Lark / Herald Special Sections Writer
If you’re looking for a vehicle that serves as a mid-size family sedan, yet still creates a sporty, fun-to-drive vibe coupled with all-wheel drive functionality and all the latest, greatest safety features, there is a car out there that checks all the boxes:
The Subaru 2017 Legacy 2.5i Sport.
Factor in 34 miles per gallon down the highway as rated by the EPA and an affordable MSRP under $30K, and you’re looking at a minor miracle.
Powered by a 2.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder BOXER engine paired with a Lineartronic CVT transmission with six-speed manual mode, the combination delivers serious acceleration from standing starts and at passing speed, generating 175 horsepower.
The Sport exterior is spruced up with a dark gray front grille, fog lights in black gloss housings, 18-inch sport-styled alloy wheels, a Lapis Blue coat of paint, and chrome-accented rocker trim and high luster, silver-finished, turn-signal mirrors.
The Legacy Sport interior highlights include unique two-tone pairing of gray and black cloth upholstery and exclusive blue stitching on the seats, door panels, and steering wheel. Also, a carbon fiber pattern dash and door panel trim are complemented by piano-black door switch panels and steering wheel switches.
There is plenty of head and leg room for everyone, both front- and back-seat passengers. And the trunk was generous enough (with a little help from one fold-down rear seat) to accommodate three sets of golf clubs and push carts.
My tester included an optional package ($4,845) that added a power moonroof, Starlink navigation system and Subaru’s Eyesight Driver Assist System. That suite includes a pre-collision braking system, blind-spot detection, and rear cross-traffic alert. Newly added for this model are high-beam assist and a reverse automatic braking system.
As one would expect with a Subaru, the standard equipment is no slouch. Features include vehicle dynamics control, anti-lock brakes, anti-theft alarm and immobilizer system and a brake override system.
When it comes to creature comforts, the Subaru Legacy Sport pampers and spoils with the best of them. A 7.0 Infotainment system displays navigation, the rear-view camera and multiple controls. Highlights include a CD player, high-def radio, Bluetooth, dual USB ports, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, 10-way adjustable driver’s seat and push-button start.
Audiophiles can add a Harman Kardon audio system with 12-speakers and 576-watt equivalent amplifier. Almost makes my ears ring a little louder just thinking about the possibility.
All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation.
Base Price: $23,995
Price As Driven: $28,910
Base price includes destination charge. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. Prices may vary at local dealerships.
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