Moreover, the new Legacy boasts a comprehensive choice of transmissions, although there's room for improvement in some cases. Models powered by the 2.5L gasoline engine (base, Sport and Limited) are available with an all-new CVT with manual mode and a standard 6-speed manual gearbox. The 3.6R model gets a newly-calibrated 5-speed automatic unit, while the GT happily makes do with a 6-speed manual gearbox that's more precise than before.
Accessories galore
Subaru not only wanted to give a new look to the 2010 Legacy but also position it as a genuine premium midsize sedan. Therefore, expect to find a lengthy list of features and amenities (standard or optional depending on the trim level) just like in today's top competitors.
It ranges from the available Harman Kardon premium sound system to a back-up camera and standard satellite radio. Another brilliant addition on the options menu is the Blueconnect system which integrates the hands-free functionality of your Bluetooth-enabled phone at the touch of a button. This is a must-have for any user who loves to chat while driving (like me).
Safety has been enhanced, too. For instance, there's a new electronic parking brake with push-button activation (it deactivates when you depress the throttle). In a smart move, the system is designed to lock the parking brake if it detects that the driver is buckled up but a door is still open.
Subaru also incorporated Hill-Start Assist, which prevents the car from rolling backwards, even on Newfoundland's steepest grades.
A very sedan-like driving experience
The company invited journalists to test-drive the 2010 Subaru Legacy on the twisty coastal roads of this Atlantic province, often on the exact same route used for the Targa Newfoundland rally. Sitting next to me was a colleague from Ontario who regularly takes part in the event. I felt in perfect mood to put the new Legacy through its paces -- at legal speeds, of course!
First observation: this sedan is very comfortable. My old back had nothing to complain about, even after driving the various models over hundreds of kilometres. Granted, it took me several long seconds to find a proper driving position in each car, but once I was set, I could have stayed there until I reached Vancouver!
 |
| Therefore, expect to find a lengthy list of features and amenities just like in today's top competitors. |
Accessories galore
Subaru not only wanted to give a new look to the 2010 Legacy but also position it as a genuine premium midsize sedan. Therefore, expect to find a lengthy list of features and amenities (standard or optional depending on the trim level) just like in today's top competitors.
It ranges from the available Harman Kardon premium sound system to a back-up camera and standard satellite radio. Another brilliant addition on the options menu is the Blueconnect system which integrates the hands-free functionality of your Bluetooth-enabled phone at the touch of a button. This is a must-have for any user who loves to chat while driving (like me).
Safety has been enhanced, too. For instance, there's a new electronic parking brake with push-button activation (it deactivates when you depress the throttle). In a smart move, the system is designed to lock the parking brake if it detects that the driver is buckled up but a door is still open.
Subaru also incorporated Hill-Start Assist, which prevents the car from rolling backwards, even on Newfoundland's steepest grades.
A very sedan-like driving experience
The company invited journalists to test-drive the 2010 Subaru Legacy on the twisty coastal roads of this Atlantic province, often on the exact same route used for the Targa Newfoundland rally. Sitting next to me was a colleague from Ontario who regularly takes part in the event. I felt in perfect mood to put the new Legacy through its paces -- at legal speeds, of course!
First observation: this sedan is very comfortable. My old back had nothing to complain about, even after driving the various models over hundreds of kilometres. Granted, it took me several long seconds to find a proper driving position in each car, but once I was set, I could have stayed there until I reached Vancouver!
 |
| My old back had nothing to complain about, even after driving the various models over hundreds of kilometres. |