Subaru is a popular brand in the Pacific Northwest, but most of the models we see on the road are outdoorsy Foresters and Outbacks, or super-sporty Imprezas.
Positioned between these two groups is a car that combines the characteristics of both — and also adds a touch of luxury. It’s the Legacy.
Available in seven different variations, the Subaru Legacy offers the comfort and ride quality of a five-passenger midsize sedan, the all-weather confidence of all-wheel drive, and the option of higher-performance engines and mechanicals.
The 2009 Legacy lineup includes the 2.5i, 2.5i Special Edition, 2.5i Limited, 2.5GT Limited, 2.5GT spec.B, 3.0R and, new for ’09, the 3.0R Limited.
The first three models come with a 170-horsepower SOHC four-cylinder engine with 170 lb-ft of torque. GT models have a 243-horsepower DOHC turbocharged and intercooled four-cylinder with 241 lb-ft of torque. The 3.0 engine is a 245-horsepower six-cylinder generating 215 lb-ft of torque.
Subaru’s Si-Drive system, which provides — at the twist of a console-mounted knob — three different performance modes, is a standard feature on GT and 3.0 models.
Si-Drive’s Intelligent mode reduces engine torque and maximum power, and relaxes throttle response for gentler driving. It can also help with fuel efficiency. Sport mode’s contribution is powerful, linear acceleration, and Sport Sharp sets the throttle for the quickest response and more power sooner.
My tester was a 2.5GT Limited, liberally equipped with standard features including vehicle dynamics control, anti-lock brakes, side curtain airbags, five-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, halogen fog lights, power moonroof, variable intermittent windshield wipers with de-icer, 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, heated front seats, power and heated exterior mirrors, cruise control, tilt and telescoping steering wheel with sound system controls, remote keyless entry, navigation system, nine-speaker premium Harmon Kardon audio system, and power windows and door locks.
Legacy is somewhat smaller than some of the best-sellers in the midsize sedan segment, most noticeable in its rear-seat leg room. The trade-off is a good one: sportier handling and better maneuverability. Trunk space doesn’t seem sacrificed;
Legacy’s trunk is huge.
Legacy’s fit-and-finish and quality of materials are superb, and the driver’s seat has just the right amount of firmness and bolstering.
Subaru’s navigation system is, for the most part, intuitive and straightforward. That isn’t damning with faint praise, either. Intuitive and straightforward are the best compliments a car’s navigation system can get.
Ride and handling are of the first water, too, but I wished for a little less road noise in the cabin. Steering is nice and precise.
The performance options provided by Si-Drive give the car a clever “something for everyone” touch, though I suspect that one-driver Legacys will be tuned to one setting and stay there almost exclusively.
As for exterior styling, my tester’s best side was its front end, thanks in great part to its functional hood scoop. Otherwise, Legacy’s styling is perfectly fine, just not head-turning.
In crash tests, the 2009 Subaru Legacy earned the highest safety ratings issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
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