Overview

The Subaru Legacy started out as a midsize family hauler, competing with the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and others. Recently, added performance and luxury features have turned it into more of an executive car. Power, interior space, and exterior design were all addressed in a redesign in 2010, and the 2011 model is mainly a carryover, with some adjustments to the trims. Available as a sedan or a wagon, the Subaru Legacy features standard all-wheel drive.

The 2011 Subaru Legacy comes in seven trim levels and three engine types. The highest trim level, the Limited, features 18-inch alloy wheels with performance tires, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, premium Harman Kardon sound system, and a full range of power accessories. The Limited also offers an optional navigation system. A sunroof is optional on all Legacy trims.

The standard powertrain in the 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, and 2.5i Limited trims of the 2011 Subaru Legacy is a 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder boxer engine with 6-speed manual or optional continuously variable transmission (CVT) with manual shift control, which is standard on the Limited. That engine produces 170 lb.-ft. of torque and delivers 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, according to the EPA. The Limited's equipment raises its fuel efficiency to 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The 2.5GT trim features the same engine, turbocharged to produce 265 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque, and a 6-speed manual transmission. The 3.6R trims feature a 256-horsepower, 3.6-liter, 6-cylinder boxer engine that delivers 247 lb.-ft. of torque, 18 mpg in the city, and 25 mpg on the highway with its standard 5-speed automatic transmission.

Standard safety features on the 2011 Subaru Legacy include anti-lock brakes with brake assist, stability control, traction control, front side air bags, and side curtain air bags. The parking brake features a hill-hold function. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the Legacy highest-possible "Good" ratings in front- and side-impact crash tests.

Starting MSRPs for the 2011 Subaru Legacy range from $19,995 for the base 2.5i trim to $31,395 for the 2.5GT Limited.