Only a month after introducing the new WRX STi, Subaru is back at it at the Chicago Auto Show, where they just debuted the all-new 2015 Legacy. The newest iteration of the Legacy is everything you would expect from the successful line: ample power, a high-end drivetrain, an enjoyable driving experience, and healthy dose of style.
Let’s start with the engine, where the biggest criticism of the STi is also present in the Legacy: virtually unchanged power. Still, it’s hard to argue with what the Legacy puts forth; thee standard model (the Legacy 2.5i) features a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder DOHC BOXER that makes 175 hp and 174 lb.-ft. of torque. Next up is the 3.6R, which features a 3.6-liter 6-cylinder BOXER capable of 256 hp and 247 lb.-ft. of torque. Both models come with Subaru’s new and improved continuously variable transmission.
While the engines aren’t improved for power, they are still improved: the engines are lighter, more efficient, and quieter than on the previous model. The fuel efficiency – 26 mpg city/36 mpg highway/30 mpg combined for the 2.5i, and 20/28/23 for the 3.6R – is not incredible, but it is a step forward, and still better than many cars in the same class.
As always, off-road capability is stressed in the Legacy, and it remains the only car in its class to come standard with all-wheel drive. And, as we’ve come to expect with Subaru, the safety features are top notch, including a new rear radar system that integrates Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Subaru anticipates that the Legacy will be given the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, which has become pretty standard at the company.
What’s less expected is the luxury for the driver. The re-designed interior is far more cushy than ever before, with the new 6.2 Infotainment System being a notable improvement over the last iteration, and the Navigation Infotainment System (available on the Premium and Limited models) offering a hug improvement. The sound system is pretty nice, too, with the standard model getting a 6-speaker system, and the Limited model getting a 12-speaker Harmon-Kardon system.
No one area of the 2015 Legacy stands out, but the already great car moves forward in nearly every spectrum, creating the most well-rounded Subaru to date.
Photo Credit: Subaru
