Montreal, Quebec - As Subaru makes its way through their lineup redesigns, we went along for the ride and were given the opportunity to check out the 2013 Subaru Legacy.
While Subaru claims the 2013 is close to a complete redesign, the changes are more subtle and low-key than in-your-face. From a slight facelift to tweaks here and there in the suspension, chassis, and the CVT gearbox, the 2013 Subaru Legacy might be hard to pinpoint on the road when compared to the previous generation, however, the changes made were done with purpose.
A gentleman's Subaru
Whereas some Subaru models might be a bit rougher round the edges (read: STI and even the new BRZ), the Legacy is all about class and sophistication. A gentle, refined ride that will get you to your destination no matter what the climate and/or driving conditions thanks to Subaru's stellar AWD system.
The Legacy has always been Subaru's pseudo-luxury model, and the 2013 model maintains that image quite well.
Just like the 2013 Subaru Outback, the new Legacy feature subtle exterior changes, such as a bolder, more aggressive front grille coupled with hawk-eye headlights. Exaggerated fenders sit atop new wheel designs.
On the inside, much remains the same save for the addition of available wood inserts instead of chrome accents and an available Harman/Kardon sound system. The Subaru Legacy boasts a massive interior in both the front and back with 96 mm of legroom for rear passengers and 415 litres of trunk space. There's no denying, the Legacy is a comfortable ride no matter what seat you're in.
It's all about the BOXER
Just as the 2013 Subaru Outback features an all new 2.5L 4-cylinder DOHC engine, the 2013 Subaru Legacy gets the same treatment. Horsepower is up a few at 173 as is the torque at 174 lb-ft. As for the top-of-the-range 3.6R Limited engine, it remains the same 3.6L H6 pushing out 256 hp.
As with the Outback, the 2013 Legacy has a new and improved CVT. As I've mentioned before, CVTs are not my cup of tea, however, this one is tolerable and actually performs quite well. Response is good and Subaru have managed to make it quieter, as well as making sure it “shifts” to stop the driver from wanting to drive into the lake due to droning revs.
The new 2.5L engine helps the 2013 Subaru Legacy (in 2.5i Convenience trim) be one of the most fuel efficient midsize sedans with AWD. With NRCan figures approximately 0.5L/100km better than the previous generation's, Subaru has done its very best to keep the greenies happy and the green in your wallet, not at the pumps.
Of course, the most exciting bit of new kit available on the 2013 Subaru Legacy is their EyeSight driver assistance system. For the moment it will only be featured on the 3.6R Limited model, however it will trickle down to other trims in the near future.
With four trim levels available (starting at approx. $24k and reaching up to the $37k mark), the 2013 Legacy is a great family sedan that will see you through winters as well as it does summers.
While Subaru claims the 2013 is close to a complete redesign, the changes are more subtle and low-key than in-your-face. From a slight facelift to tweaks here and there in the suspension, chassis, and the CVT gearbox, the 2013 Subaru Legacy might be hard to pinpoint on the road when compared to the previous generation, however, the changes made were done with purpose.
 |
A gentleman's Subaru
Whereas some Subaru models might be a bit rougher round the edges (read: STI and even the new BRZ), the Legacy is all about class and sophistication. A gentle, refined ride that will get you to your destination no matter what the climate and/or driving conditions thanks to Subaru's stellar AWD system.
The Legacy has always been Subaru's pseudo-luxury model, and the 2013 model maintains that image quite well.
Just like the 2013 Subaru Outback, the new Legacy feature subtle exterior changes, such as a bolder, more aggressive front grille coupled with hawk-eye headlights. Exaggerated fenders sit atop new wheel designs.
On the inside, much remains the same save for the addition of available wood inserts instead of chrome accents and an available Harman/Kardon sound system. The Subaru Legacy boasts a massive interior in both the front and back with 96 mm of legroom for rear passengers and 415 litres of trunk space. There's no denying, the Legacy is a comfortable ride no matter what seat you're in.
 |
| The new Legacy feature subtle exterior changes, such as a bolder, more aggressive front grille coupled with hawk-eye headlights. (Photo: Subaru) |
It's all about the BOXER
Just as the 2013 Subaru Outback features an all new 2.5L 4-cylinder DOHC engine, the 2013 Subaru Legacy gets the same treatment. Horsepower is up a few at 173 as is the torque at 174 lb-ft. As for the top-of-the-range 3.6R Limited engine, it remains the same 3.6L H6 pushing out 256 hp.
As with the Outback, the 2013 Legacy has a new and improved CVT. As I've mentioned before, CVTs are not my cup of tea, however, this one is tolerable and actually performs quite well. Response is good and Subaru have managed to make it quieter, as well as making sure it “shifts” to stop the driver from wanting to drive into the lake due to droning revs.
The new 2.5L engine helps the 2013 Subaru Legacy (in 2.5i Convenience trim) be one of the most fuel efficient midsize sedans with AWD. With NRCan figures approximately 0.5L/100km better than the previous generation's, Subaru has done its very best to keep the greenies happy and the green in your wallet, not at the pumps.
Of course, the most exciting bit of new kit available on the 2013 Subaru Legacy is their EyeSight driver assistance system. For the moment it will only be featured on the 3.6R Limited model, however it will trickle down to other trims in the near future.
 |
| Subaru has accepted the challenge and released a brand new safety system they call EyeSight. (Photo: Subaru) |
With four trim levels available (starting at approx. $24k and reaching up to the $37k mark), the 2013 Legacy is a great family sedan that will see you through winters as well as it does summers.
2013 Subaru Legacy 3.6R Limited with Eyesight
2013 Subaru Legacy 3.6R Limited with Eyesight
2013 Subaru Legacy Limited Package with Eyesight
2013 Subaru Legacy Limited Package with Eyesight
Article Gallery