AWD Subaru Legacy has more powertrain choices
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Subaru brings a new 3.0R model to its Legacy lineup for 2009, giving buyers a wide range of powertrain choices in this great-looking, sporty sedan.
Also new this year are a new Harman Kardon audio system and a standard vehicle stability and traction control system.
The 3.0R model basically brings the 3.0R Limited back at a reduced cost. Other Legacy models for 2009 include the base 2.5i, the 2.5i Special Edition, the 2.5i Limited; the 2.5GT spec.B, and the 2.5GT Limited, which is the Legacy model I tested.
All Legacy models are sedans, even though most drive like sporty coupes.
The sporty 2.5GT Limited came in the Ruby Red Pearl color and sported a functional hood scoop that feeds the 2.5-liter intercooled turbo engine. The transmission was a 5-speed automatic with paddle shifters.
All Subaru vehicles are equipped with the company’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which not only provides safety on slick roads, but delivers intensified performance on any road surface.
Legacy 6-cylinder and turbo models are equipped with the SI-DRIVE performance control system that allows the driver to maximize engine performance, control and efficiency by choosing from three modes: Intelligent, Sport, and Sport Sharp.
The Intelligent setting reduces engine torque and maximum power, switching to a more relaxed throttle response curve. The choice for heavy traffic, the Intelligent setting can also increase mileage by up to 10 percent.
The Sport mode provides quicker throttle responses and better acceleration. The Sport mode brings on the power more quickly.
Finally, the Sport Sharp mode holds each gear longer through the rpm range and downshifts quicker under hard acceleration, the perfect companion for the Legacy’s paddle shifters and for drivers who like an “enhanced” driving experience. An advanced VDC system now standard on all but one model is designed to help the vehicle going in the direction the driver is steering, especially in slick road conditions.
My test Legacy had upscale features like projector beam Halogen fog lights, a power moon roof, dual zone automatic climate control, heated seats, heated mirrors, power everything, a Harman Kardon premium audio system with nine speakers and audio controls on the steering wheel.
When it comes to safety, the Legacy gets high marks from the government: five stars in frontal crash protection for the driver and passenger and another five stars for side crash protection for front and rear seat passengers. Rollover protection is four stars.
The base price for the 2009 Subaru Legacy 2.5GT Limited was $30,395, and after a $665 shipping charge, the out-the-door price was $31,060.
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