REVIEW: 2011 Subaru Legacy 3.6R Limited
By Nina Russin
Despite being one of the most enduring models in Subaru’s line-up, the new Legacy sedan seems somewhat un-Subaru-like. On the surface, the midsize sedan has no affinity with Subaru’s sport-utility wagons, the Forester and Outback, nor does it share the extreme sport image of the Impreza WRX: a favorite among World Rally Cup fans.
The Legacy is not suitable for off-road trails due to its scant ground clearance, nor is it particularly practical for hauling large cargo. It doesn’t have a gnarly wing like the WRX STI, or a giant hood scoop.
Twenty years after the first models rolled off the assembly line, the Legacy remains true to its original mission. It is Subaru’s offering in the most competitive passenger car segment, going head-to-head against the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord and Nissan Altima.
The car now has the horizontally-opposed 3.6-liter engine, which replaces the three-liter six-cylinder on pre-2010 models. The horizontally-opposed engine is not only inherently balanced: it is also ideal for all-wheel drive applications. Engineers were able to give the larger-displacement engine identical dimensions to the block it replaced by shortening the connecting rods. The new six-cylinder engine produces 11 more horsepower and 32 more foot-pounds of torque than the three-liter block it replaces. The big increase in torque translates to better acceleration off the line and in the critical 20-to-50 mile-per-hour range, for merging onto the highway.
Subaru’s commitment to safety extends to the Legacy as well, with standard dynamic stability control, antilock braking, front, side and side curtain airbags, hill start assist and tire pressure monitoring. The Legacy shares Subaru’s ring shaped reinforcement structure with other models. A new engine cradle enhances safety in frontal collisions.
And like its siblings, the Legacy is a driver’s car. The all-wheel drive system sends more power to the rear axle under normal conditions to mimic competitive sport sedans. A quick ratio steering system gives the sedan nimble handling on challenging roads.
Formula-style shift paddles on the steering wheel allow the driver to manually select gears, for more aggressive performance. And standard 17-inch wheels with low-profile tires give the Legacy a large footprint for maximum traction.
The base model with the automatic transmission gets up to 31 miles-per-gallon on the highway: the six-cylinder model averages 25. Granted, the bigger engine produces forty percent more horsepower. But a difference of six miles-per-gallon on the highway shortens the driving range on a 12.5-gallon tank of gas by 75 miles.
I had the opportunity to test drive the 2011 Legacy for a week on a combination of surface streets, highways and rural roads outside of town.
While I rarely comment about a car’s appearance, the Legacy is worth talking about. It’s a very pretty car, and the new color drew admiring remarks from passers-by. Designers did a good job of making the exterior sporty yet sophisticated, appealing to a wide range of buyers.
The new engine is quiet and strong. Aside from its unexceptional gas mileage, the five-speed automatic transmission does an excellent job, providing strong acceleration with no noticeable shift shock. I shifted into manual mode on a rural two-lane road outside town, and was impressed by how smoothly the system works.
Engineers did an excellent job of isolating passengers from noise, vibration and harshness. Passengers in back will have no problems conversing with those in front.
Stylish interior
The Legacy’s interior is clean and uncluttered. I found the 10-way power driver’s seat easy to adjust: it provides ample lower lumbar support for longer drives. A standard dead pedal reduces leg fatigue.
A tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel allows smaller drivers to maintain a clear forward view, and a safe distance from the front airbag. Redundant audio, Bluetooth and cruise control functions minimize driver distraction.
Both the gauge cluster and digital center stack display are easy to read in a variety of lighting conditions. Audio control knobs are on the small side: too small for somebody with larger hands or wearing gloves. A 12-volt outlet at the base of the center stack recharges portable electronic devices.
Despite its tall floor tunnel, the Legacy can hold up to three adults in back, though legroom in the middle position is limited. Access and egress to the second-row seats is excellent. Headroom is good in all positions.
In conclusion, the Legacy is a stylish midsize sedan with a spacious interior that seats up to five passengers. The sedan meets our best value criteria for all grades, offering standard all-wheel drive, as well as a high level of standard safety, comfort and convenience features.
Subaru of America Supports Fall Car Care Month
-- Free Vehicle Diagnostic Inspections Offered to Subaru Drivers in October --
Subaru of America, Inc. announced today that the company is endorsing the Car Care Council's Fall Car Care Month, a nationwide October program highlighting the importance of regular vehicle maintenance. To help Subaru owners heed the council's advice to "Be Car Care Aware," most Subaru dealers are offering free vehicle diagnostic inspections in preparation for the demands of winter driving.
The Car Care Council notes that regularly maintaining your vehicle – including checking the oil, filters and fluids; belts and hoses; brakes and tires; and the air conditioning system – can preserve your automotive investment by helping your vehicle last longer.
"No matter where you live or what you drive, Fall is always a good time to prepare your vehicle for winter's cooler weather – and regular maintenance will also help improve your mileage, lower emissions, and improve the future resale value of your vehicle," notes Gary Palanjian, vice president of parts and service, Subaru of America, Inc. "We want every Subaru driver to enjoy the highest possible safety, performance and fuel economy, which is why we support Fall Car Care Month and offer the free service inspections."
During Fall Car Care Month, Subaru dealers will be performing a thorough no-obligation multi-point diagnostic checkup of all major operating systems, and owners will receive a written report of the vehicle's condition.
On October 24th, MileOne Automotive employees, friends and family in Maryland joined together to participate in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk in Baltimore. MileOne Automotive is a long-time participant in the event and look forward to this day each fall.
The weather and turn-out were both great for this year’s event. Team members met at our Flagship Sponsor tent in a park at the Harry and Jeannetta Weinberg YMCA Center in Baltimore. Before the walk began, team members enjoyed light refreshments, turned in their last-minute donations and got ready for the event to begin!
Jerry Fader, President of MileOne Automotive, spoke to all walkers at this year’s Making Strides event before the beginning of the walk. He addressed the importance of fundraising and the impact that The American Cancer Society has in all of our lives. After the speech, there was a quick MileOne team photo taken then everyone headed to the start line.
The walk took place on a scenic, 4-mile course throughout the Mayfield neighborhood of Baltimore. Part of the walk included a trip around Lake Montebello. American Cancer Society volunteers, neighbors and even some cheerleaders encouraged walkers along the way. Everyone ended the walk under a huge pink balloon arch, welcoming them back to the event’s main area. Music, snacks and water were on-hand for all participants.
Overall, the event was successful for MileOne and The American Cancer Society, further strengthening the partnership between the two organizations. Throughout the Making Strides season, MileOne employees helped to raise thousands of dollars, as they do each year, to benefit the ACS. This event each year is a great celebration for all participants to recognize strength, volunteerism and community.