The last-generation Subaru Legacy was a car with plenty going for it—including a great safety story, reliable performance, good resale values and a celebrated AWD system as standard on every model. Thing was, too many shoppers found it a little too small, a little too stiff and a little too expensive.
The Mission
After years as a small, pricey and nichey family sedan that lacked sales superstardom, Subaru execs decided to make a big change to their Legacy. For its latest iteration, the model would no longer be popular primarily with a loyal group of enthusiast owners. Instead, it would be positioned to scrap it out with the big boys for shopper recognition and sales volume.
Subaru’s ambitious plans for the latest Legacy include ensuring Canadian shoppers after a sensible sedan will include it in their mental model checklist—alongside the Accord, Camry and Sonata.
To help with the job, the latest and most ambitious Legacy has been softened, up-sized, up-kitted and up-styled for its fight with North America’s mainstream metal. It’s now bigger, roomier, more honestly-priced and comfortable than ever. Subaru says it’s also more fuel efficient and just as quick as the outgoing model, despite its extra heft.
Old v.s. New
Truly, most anyone driving a generation-old Legacy should find the new unit offers plenty of everything the older model didn’t—including proper arm-rests, adult-friendly rear seats and a generous trunk. There’s a quieter ride and more headroom, too.
Ultimately, the Legacy range has mostly taken very well to becoming larger, heavier and more comfortable.
Mostly.
 |
| The latest and most ambitious Legacy has been softened, up-sized, up-kitted and up-styled for its fight with North America’s mainstream metal. (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com) |
The Mission
After years as a small, pricey and nichey family sedan that lacked sales superstardom, Subaru execs decided to make a big change to their Legacy. For its latest iteration, the model would no longer be popular primarily with a loyal group of enthusiast owners. Instead, it would be positioned to scrap it out with the big boys for shopper recognition and sales volume.
Subaru’s ambitious plans for the latest Legacy include ensuring Canadian shoppers after a sensible sedan will include it in their mental model checklist—alongside the Accord, Camry and Sonata.
To help with the job, the latest and most ambitious Legacy has been softened, up-sized, up-kitted and up-styled for its fight with North America’s mainstream metal. It’s now bigger, roomier, more honestly-priced and comfortable than ever. Subaru says it’s also more fuel efficient and just as quick as the outgoing model, despite its extra heft.
Old v.s. New
Truly, most anyone driving a generation-old Legacy should find the new unit offers plenty of everything the older model didn’t—including proper arm-rests, adult-friendly rear seats and a generous trunk. There’s a quieter ride and more headroom, too.
Ultimately, the Legacy range has mostly taken very well to becoming larger, heavier and more comfortable.
Mostly.
 |
| The new unit offers plenty of everything the older model didn’t—including proper arm-rests, adult-friendly rear seats and a generous trunk. (Photo: Subaru) |