2013 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Limited

By Mauricio Lezcano / carsNtravel.com

The 2013 Subaru Legacy features new, sportier front styling with new headlights, grille and front bumper. The changes will further enhance the appeal, with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive; Subaru Legacy remains the most fuel efficient midsize all wheel drive sedan in America. At the same time rewards drivers with engaging performance and a high level of driving comfort and offers outstanding safety performance. For added safety, Legacy adds a new Brake Override system.

Legacy 2.5i models debut a new double overhead cam (DOHC) FB series 2.5 liter Boxer engine for increased performance and fuel efficiency. The new engine produces 173 hp and 174 lb.-ft. of torque. More significant is that produces greater low end torque across a broad speed range, making the 2013 Legacy 2.5i models more responsive in everyday driving.

A choice between a standard 6-speed manual transmission and the second generation Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission) is available; the latter is standard on the 2.5i Premium and Limited. The second-generation Lineartronic CVT offers more responsive and quieter operation compared to the transmission it replaces.

Unlike a conventional automatic transmission that uses fixed gear ratios, a CVT provides infinite variability between the lowest and highest available ratios with no discern able steps or shifts. The CVT continuously and smoothly adapts to performance demand, helping to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range. Models with the CVT also feature a 6-speed manual mode with steering wheel paddle shifters, which allow the driver to control the transmission via six pre-set ratios.

Legacy models debut Subaru’s new EyeSight driver-assist system, which integrates Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking and Vehicle Lane Departure Warning. Projected to be one of the most affordable such technologies available in the U.S. market, EyeSight uses a stereo camera design developed by Subaru to provide a detection angle wider than that of radar-based systems.

Numerous enhancements to the body structure, suspension and steering give the Legacy a smoother and quieter ride for 2013, while also delivering improved handling agility. Greater stiffness at key points of the structure, including the front strut mounts and rear frame rails, helps reduce the transmission of vibration while also contributing to more responsive handling.

New seat fabric enhances comfort in the 2013 Legacy, while dark, glossy wood grain trim provides a luxurious appearance on Limited models. Limited trim level models for 2013 feature a new rear-seat A/C outlet.

With the Keyless Access & Start system, the driver can unlock the car by touching the door handle while carrying the remote control in a pocket or purse. A start/stop switch operates the ignition. A new electro-luminescent instrument cluster in the Limited models integrates a 3.5-inch color screen for the multi-information display, which also shows EyeSight functions when the car is so equipped.

The top level Legacy Limited models exclusively offer an optional new navigation system that includes all of the features in the harman/kardon audio package plus: touch-screen GPS navigation system with 7.0-inch LCD display; voice activated controls and navigation; XM NavTraffic (subscription required); rear vision camera, and an SD card slot for convenient navigation map updates.

The Subaru Ring-Shaped Frame Reinforcement body structure has been proven for occupant protection in more than a decade of use. Inside, the Legacy features standard front side pelvis/torso airbags and side curtain airbags that offer front and rear outboard seat coverage.

Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) combines stability and traction control functions, and traction control works to augment the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive functionality. The 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) integrates Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and the Brake Assist safety system that automatically applies maximum braking pressure in an emergency stop.

The electronic Hill Holder System holds the vehicle in place until the driver presses the accelerator pedal to pull away from a stop. New for 2013, a Brake Override system ensures that engine power will be cut when both the brake and accelerator are pressed simultaneously.

The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $25,895.00, the EPA fuel economy estimates 24 MPG city and 32 MPG highway. mlezcano@carsntravel.com

Posted in CAR REVIEWS, Subaru.

Emilio Lezcano

Journalist - Editor - Photographer
Professional Race Car Driver

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