The venerable 2015 Subaru Legacy sedan arrives on the scene delivering a fresh new design, with refined interior appointments and ambiance, state-of-the-art safety technology features, and improved fuel economy.
| STATS | Starting Retail Price | As Tested Price | HP / Lb-Ft | |
| 2015 Subaru Legacy | $21,695 – 2.5i $29,595 3.6R – Limited models | $28,085 – 2.5i / $31,185 – 3.6R – Limited models | 2.5i-175 @ 5,800 rpm / 174 @ 4,000 rpm 3.6R – 256 @ 6,000 rpm / 247 @ 4,400 rpm | |
| EPA Rating 26/36 mpg city/hwy – 2.5i / 20/27 mpg city/hwy – 3.6R | As Tested MPG Not tested | |||
| Rating: | BUY IT! |
This latest iteration 2015 Subaru Legacy now boasts the largest interior passenger volume in the midsize sedan market segment. It is also still the only car in its class to provide All-Wheel-Drive as a standard feature, while upping the safety ante with the introduction of the latest version of the EyeSight system, along with an available new Rear Vehicle Detection System that adds Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
Power sources will include a choice of two BOXER engines – either a 4 or 6-cylinder in a flat, horizontally-opposed configuration. The four-cylinder is a 2.5i DOHC, BOXER engine with sequential multi-port fuel injection with cylinder head direct mount multi-spray injectors and Electronic Throttle Control system that delivers 175 horsepower at 5,800 rpm along with 174 pound feet of torque at 4,000 rpm. The 6-cylinder engine is a 3.6R, DOHC BOXER with sequential multi-port fuel injection with cylinder head direct mount multi-spray injectors and Electronic Throttle Control system that produces 256 horses at 6,000 rpm while also developing 247 pound feet of torque at 4,400 rpm.
Both engines direct power to the symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system through standard fare Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVT). The 2.5i’s CVT is a Lineartronic version that includes a 6-speed manual mode and steering –wheel mounted paddle shifters, while the 3.6R CVT is a high torque version with the same properties. Engines are flat forward mounted with symmetrical AWD and Active Torque Split AWD with electronically managed continuously variable hydraulic transfer clutch. Active Torque Vectoring, an enhancement of the Vehicle Dynamics Control stability and traction control system, results in more neutral cornering by applying brake pressure to the inside front wheel.
Suspension componentry consists of MacPherson-type struts with internal rebound springs, lower L-arms, coil springs and stabilizer bar up front and Double wishbone with subframe, coil springs and stabilizer bar in the rear. Braking chores are handled by power-assisted 4-wheel vented discs with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, 4-channel / 4-sensor ABS, Brake Assist and a Brake Override system. The 2015 Subaru Legacy rolls on Goodyear Ecopia or Assurance P225/50 R18 mounted on 5-“V”-spoke with center spoke (10 total).
In terms of its visual appeal, the 2015 Subaru Legacy reflects design cues that were first shown by the Legacy Concept at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show. The production result displays a sporty form with functional efficiency, and key to its sleeker, coupe-like profile is the new front fascia combining the hexagonal grille and bumper into a single smooth piece. An aluminum hood reduces weight over the front wheels, improving steering response.
The windshield of the new Legacy is more raked, pulled forward 2 inches at the base. This new windshield angle, along with higher hip seating points, new front partition windows and door-mounted side view mirrors aid in improving visibility. Aerodynamic efficiency is improved 10-percent, contributing to lower fuel consumption. The 2015 Legacy 2.5i debuts a standard Active Grille Shutter system, which also helps to improve fuel economy by reducing wind resistance when closed.
The Legacy 3.6R Limited showcases new standard HID low-beam headlights that give the car a more distinct signature after dark. The U-shape taillights and brake lights on all models utilize LED bulbs for lower power consumption and a luxurious appearance. Limited trim models feature turn signal exterior mirrors.
Moving to the inside, the new Legacy provides 104.6 cu. ft. of cabin space offering more shoulder, hip, elbow and leg room. Rear seat legroom measures 38.1 inches, and the trunk has been enlarged to 15.0 cu. ft. A standard 60/40 split fold-down rear seat expands carrying capacity.
The sporty instrument panel is highlighted by two binocular-style gauge pods with a center LCD information display. All models provide an ECO gauge that indicates and promotes fuel-efficient driving habits using color bars. Premium and Limited-trims feature gauges with elegant blue ring illumination. The heater control panel integrates digital clock and outside air temperature displays, with the time automatically corrected by GPS in navigation-equipped models.
The available navigation system’s interactive voice command system accepts natural language and phrases, and this functionality can also operate the dual-zone automatic climate control system. The center console armrest provides a storage area that can hold an iPad. A covered and illuminated storage bin at the front of the console incorporates a USB port, 3.5 mm AUX jack and a 12v power port. Models with high-grade audio or navigation feature two USB ports, making it possible to listen to music and charge two connected devices.
Trim levels will consist of a base 2.5i, a 2.5i Premium, the 2.5i Limited, and the 3.6R which only comes in Limited trim. Pricing ranges from $21,690 to $30,390. Add $795 for Destination and Delivery charges. Option Packages offered include a Moonroof Package, a Moonroof Package + Navigation System, EyeSight + Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, a Moonroof/Nav system/EyeSight/Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, a Moonroof/Keyless Access and Start/Nav System, and finally a package that consists of the Moonroof, Keyless Access & Start with Nav and EyeSight.
New standard safety and security features include a rear-view camera, now located closer to the center of the car for more natural imaging and a new rollover sensor that deploys the side curtain airbags should an imminent rollover be detected. Added nighttime security is provided by a new standard Welcome Lighting that automatically turns on cabin illumination and exterior lights as the driver approaches or departs the car.
Limited trim models offer a Keyless Access; Start system with a PIN Code Access, which allows the driver to leave the keys in the Legacy, lock it and then unlock the car using the PIN Code – ideal in situations where carrying keys is not convenient or secure.
The 2015 Subaru Legacy introduces a new type of airbag restraint and a new available rear radar system. The new front seat-cushion airbags help to keep occupants in place in a frontal collision.
The EyeSight driver-assist system is available for Premium and Limited trims and uses Subaru-developed stereo camera technology integrating Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking and Vehicle Lane Departure Warning. Models equipped with EyeSight also come with new Steering-Responsive Fog Lights which works only when the headlights are set to their Auto position and the fog lights are turned off, activating the left or right fog light independently, depending on vehicle speed and steering angle, providing enhanced illumination in the direction of the turn. The fog lights are pre-aimed for maximum coverage in corners.
During the national press launch, I was able to drive both a 2.5i Limited and the 3.6R Limited. Both were finished in Lapis Blue metallic and featured an Ivory interior. The 2.5i came with a base sticker of $21,695, while the 3.6R’s base price was set at $29,595. Final prices were $28,085 and $31,185 respectively.
SUMMARY: Driving both versions of the new 2015 Subaru Legacy delivered satisfying experiences. The trip from Big Sur to Hearst’s Castle in San Simeon was done in the 2.5i Legacy Limited, while the return trip was taken in the 3.6R Limited.
Both vehicles handled well, with a positive sporty steering input along with a solid and comfortable ride quality. The new Legacy is definitely more solid, roomier and more comfortable than its predecessor. Not only that, it is more attractive as well.
The 2.5i works harder and emits a higher noise level when prodded in say, a passing scenario. The 3.5i on the other hand is both smoother and quieter and requires less effort in achieving a higher rate of speed.
In the final analysis, the 2015 Subaru Legacy delivers more bang for the buck than the majority of competitors in its class with the added benefit of satisfactory fuel mileage.
On the TFLcar scale of:
- Buy it!
- Lease it!
- Rent it!
- … or Forget it!
I give the 2015 Subaru Legacy a Buy It! for a roomy, sporty sedan in either version
Watch the Subaru Legacy Concept make its LA Auto Show debut…
SPECIFICATIONS: 2015 Subaru Legacy Sedan
Base Price: $21,695. – 2.5i / $29,595. – 3.6R – Limited models
Price as Tested: $28,085. – 2.5i / $31,185. – 3.6R – Limited models
Engine Type and Size: 2.5i, DOHC, BOXER flat opposed 4-cylinder with sequential multi-port fuel injection with cylinder head dir4ect mount multi-spray injectors and Electronic Throttle Control system
Horsepower (bhp): 175 @ 5,800 rpm
Torque (ft./ lbs.): 174 @ 4,000 rpm
Engine Type and Size: 3.6R, DOHC, BOXER flat opposed 6-cylinder with sequential multi-port fuel injection with cylinder head dir4ect mount multi-spray injectors and Electronic Throttle Control system.
Horsepower (bhp): 256 @ 6,000 rpm
Torque (ft./ lbs.): 247 @ 4,400 rpm
Transmission: 2.5L – Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) includes 6-speed manual mode and steering wheel paddle control switches. 3.6R – High-torque Lineartronic CVT includes 6-speed manual mode and steering wheel paddle control switches.
Drive Train: Flat forward mount engine with symmetrical AWD – Active Torque Split AWD with electronically managed continuously variable hydraulic transfer clutch.
Suspension: Front – MacPherson-type struts with internal rebound springs, lower L-arms, coil springs and stabilizer bar. Rear – Double wishbone with subframe, coil springs and stabilizer bar.
Brakes: Power-assisted 4-wheel vented discs with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, 4-channel / 4-sensor ABS, Brake Assist and Brake Override system.
Tires: Goodyear Ecopia or Assurance P225/50 R18 mounted on 5-“V”-spoke with center spoke (10 total).
Wheelbase: 108.3 inches
Length Overall: 188.8 inches
Width: 72.4 inches
Height: 59.0 inches
Curb Weight: 2.5i: Base 3,468 lbs/Premium 3,455 lbs/Limited 3,485 lbs/ 3.6R limited 3,662
Turning Circle: 36.8 ft.
Fuel Capacity: 18.5 gallons EPA Mileage Estimates: 26 mpg city / 36 mpg highway 2.5 / 20 mpg city /27 highway 3.6R
Drag Coefficient: Not listed
0 – 60 mph: Not tested
Arv Voss is a Northern California based freelance motoring Journalist and member and past officer of several noted Automotive Journalist organizations who contributes regularly to a number of national and international media outlets. He reviews not only cars, trucks and SUVs, but motorcycles as well.
