2013 Subaru Legacy Gains MPGs and Sharper Looks At New York Auto Show

• EyeSight driver assist system (adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning).
• Standard all-wheel drive.
• Redesigned continuously-variable automatic transmission.
• Bluetooth connectivity on all trim levels.

The 2013 Subaru Legacy gains a more distinct personality thanks to bolder styling, especially when looking at the front of the vehicle where the Subaru badge now resides between twin horizontal bars that intersect the sedan’s grille.  The interior of the Legacy continues to follow the brand’s tradition of conservative yet comfortable trim, with greater levels of standard equipment offered on even the base model.

The big news for the Legacy the New York Auto Show was its new, more robust 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine.  Capable of producing 173 horsepower and 173 lb-ft of torque, this unit is projected to deliver 24-mpg in city driving and 32-mpg on the highway – a one-mpg improvement for each respective figure compared to last year’s model.  A continuously-variable automatic transmission makes these ratings possible, although buyers can also choose a six-speed manual.  More power is available in the form of a 3.6-liter, 256 horsepower six-cylinder engine that comes mated to a five-speed automatic.

In theory, the 2013 Subaru Legacy fights for the dollars of family shoppers who are also looking at the Toyota Camry, the Ford Fusion and the Nissan Altima.  In reality, the Legacy’s free-of-charge all-wheel drive places it in an interesting niche amongst cold climate buyers – a market segment that Subaru is successfully expanding on by making the sedan more of a looker and less of a gas guzzler.

The 2013 Subaru Legacy represents a nice, responsible and stylish alternative to the current mid-size sedan hegemony, and with Subaru moving forward with its intriguing EyeSight technology the brand has a chance to further cement its status as one of the leaders in automotive safety.