The right target
The price cuts for both models are only part of a larger strategy aiming to position these midsize cars as more enticing alternatives. Executives are now targeting segment mainstays like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry and Mazda6.
"After surveying consumers, we realized what made them reluctant to buy a Legacy or Outback -- rear cargo room, body styling, pricing and the perceived low fuel economy," explains Dan Paras, Training Specialist at Subaru Canada.
The 2010 variants address these issues with, among other things, a dynamic silhouette, a roomier interior as well as new, more efficient powertrains, namely a revised 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder boxer, a new 2.5-liter turbo from the WRX and a 6-cylinder boxer that has grown from 3.0 to 3.6 liters. More sophisticated transmissions are also on the menu of 2.5i models, including a 6-speed manual gearbox and a continuously-variable transmission (CVT).
More affordable than a 2WD Accord!
Incidentally, the 2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i carries a $1,295 lower MSRP than a base Honda Accord LX… even though the former comes standard with all-wheel drive! What’s more, average fuel economy is 5-percent better than the Accord’s according to Transport Canada ratings.
Meanwhile, the Outback becomes the only midsize wagon in Subaru’s portfolio since the Legacy is no longer available in 5-door configuration (except in Japan and other foreign markets). "We believe that the new model can adequately meet the needs of all Legacy and Outback customers," claims Mr. Fabien.
Oddly enough, the 2010 Outback looks more like an SUV than ever before thanks to 8 millimeters of additional ground clearance and shorter overhangs that improve maneuverability on "tough" terrain. Traditional wagon buyers probably won’t find what they’re looking for in Subaru showrooms. However, executives believe that they will find greater value in the more affordable 2010 Outback.
The price cuts for both models are only part of a larger strategy aiming to position these midsize cars as more enticing alternatives. Executives are now targeting segment mainstays like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry and Mazda6.
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| The 2010 Outback becomes the only midsize wagon in Subaru’s portfolio. |
"After surveying consumers, we realized what made them reluctant to buy a Legacy or Outback -- rear cargo room, body styling, pricing and the perceived low fuel economy," explains Dan Paras, Training Specialist at Subaru Canada.
The 2010 variants address these issues with, among other things, a dynamic silhouette, a roomier interior as well as new, more efficient powertrains, namely a revised 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder boxer, a new 2.5-liter turbo from the WRX and a 6-cylinder boxer that has grown from 3.0 to 3.6 liters. More sophisticated transmissions are also on the menu of 2.5i models, including a 6-speed manual gearbox and a continuously-variable transmission (CVT).
More affordable than a 2WD Accord!
Incidentally, the 2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i carries a $1,295 lower MSRP than a base Honda Accord LX… even though the former comes standard with all-wheel drive! What’s more, average fuel economy is 5-percent better than the Accord’s according to Transport Canada ratings.
Meanwhile, the Outback becomes the only midsize wagon in Subaru’s portfolio since the Legacy is no longer available in 5-door configuration (except in Japan and other foreign markets). "We believe that the new model can adequately meet the needs of all Legacy and Outback customers," claims Mr. Fabien.
Oddly enough, the 2010 Outback looks more like an SUV than ever before thanks to 8 millimeters of additional ground clearance and shorter overhangs that improve maneuverability on "tough" terrain. Traditional wagon buyers probably won’t find what they’re looking for in Subaru showrooms. However, executives believe that they will find greater value in the more affordable 2010 Outback.
 |
| The 2010 Subaru Legacy carries a lower base MSRP than a Honda Accord LX… even though the former comes standard with all-wheel drive! |