The 2016 Legacy is available in either 2.5i or 3.6R models, with the former available in base, Premium and Limited trims, while the 3.6R comes only in Limited configuration.
Two engines are available. In Legacy 2.5i models, the engine is a 2.5L 4-cylinder horizontally opposed "boxer" that makes 175 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. The larger, optional engine found in the Legacy 3.6R Limited is a 3.6L 6-cylinder boxer engine capable of 256 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. The engine maintains at least 225 ft-lb from 2,000, to 6,000 rpm, giving the 3.6R Limited plenty of smooth grunt on demand. Subaru's Lineartronic continuously variable transmission is standard across the model range.
Subaru's trademark symmetrical all-wheel drive is standard on all models, and the Legacy's front MacPherson struts and double-wishbone rear suspension have been overhauled to provide an even more compliant, agile ride.
The base Legacy 2.5i includes plenty of standard features, such as 17-inch steel wheels, automatic projector-beam halogen headlights, side ground effects, air conditioning, 6-way adjustable driver's seat, steering wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, a USB charging port, hill assist and Bluetooth hands-free connectivity. The new infotainment system provides AM/FM stereo and HD Radio functionality, with a multi-function 6.2-inch touchscreen display, smartphone integration and more.
Premium models add 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, a rear-vision camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 10-way power adjustable driver's seat, a leather wrapped steering wheel, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system and the All-Weather Package, which features heated front seats, heated side mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer.
Limited models in both 2.5i and 3.6R come standard with perforated leather upholstery with heated front and rear seating, 2-position memory for the 10-way power adjustable driver's seat, along with a 4-way power passenger seat. Rear-seat air conditioning vents and a premium infotainment system with 12-speaker harman/kardon audio package are also included.
Options on the Premium trim includes voice-activated GPS navigation and blind spot detection, while Subaru's excellent EyeSight driver assist technology is available on both the Premium and Limited. It features adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking and lane departure warnings. A power moonroof package includes a glass moonroof.
Standard safety equipment includes front seat side impact airbags, side curtain airbags, intelligent dual-stage deploying front air bags, 4-wheel disc anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, brake assist, an electronic parking brake with Hill Holder and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Compelling Design
Interior Space
Plenty Of Power
Ride Comfort
Standard All-wheel Drive
Safety Features
Fine Balance Of Luxury And Performance
After a full redesign last year, the Subaru Legacy is mostly unchanged for 2016. Minor tweaks have been made to the steering to improve feel, while windshield wipers and headlights are now automatic across all trim levels. A few new safety features have been introduced as well this year. A lane-keep assist feature has been added to the EyeSight system, while a new STARLINK safety and security package is offered in one of two flavors. The STARLINK package includes items like SOS emergency assistance, automatic collision notifications and, with STARLINK plus, a vehicle locator.
Subaru has long been known for its stellar all-wheel-drive system. The Legacy is no exception, bringing Subaru's reputation for safety and reliability to a stylish mid-size sedan capable of surprising performance. With the recent redesign, there's even more to like about the Legacy, as it offers the largest interior passenger room in the midsize segment. Prices start at just over $21,000.
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