2011 Subaru Legacy

Review

If you are at all familiar with the 2010 model of the Subaru Legacy then the 2011 model will at first glance seem very much the same. Subaru continues its Legacy body style in 2011 with c-pillar designs and traditional front grill. MSRP of the 2011 model starts at $19,995 for the base package and goes up to $36,390 for all of the bells and whistles found on the Limited package. The Legacy's sporty look with all wheel drive makes this your less than typical mid-size sedan.

How does the 2011 Subaru Legacy perform?

The 2011 Subaru Legacy is available in 3 different engine choices. The 2.5 liter four cylinder offers 170 horsepower with 170 foot pounds of torque. Climbing the ladder, the next available engine is the 2.5GT which is a four cylinder producing 265 horsepower with 258 foot pounds of torque. Finally, the 3.6R features a 3.0 liter V-6 that gives 256 horsepower and 247 foot pounds of torque.

All Legacy models, regardless of engine size, feature all wheel drive to make handling smoother. Fuel economy ranges from 18 mpg city to 31 mpg on the highway. A 6 speed manual or automatic transmission is available, which allows drivers to pick their preference of driving experience. The option of a turbocharged engine is sure to please those seeking a little thrill.

Styling of the 2011 Subaru Legacy

While the body style is essentially the same as its previous model, Subaru did add about 1.5 inches to the total length of the Legacy for 2011. A wagon is available for those seeking to accommodate larger families, but the sedan version still offer plenty of room for a comfortable journey with 4 passengers or 5 if they are children.

On the inside, the 2011 Legacy offers a wide range of options as the price goes up. Heated seats are available for comfort and MP3 and Bluetooth capabilities are options for entertainment. A voice activated navigation system comes equipped on the 2.5 Limited and 2.5 GT packages, along with a first row LCD screen with DVD audio.

Safety of the 2011 Subaru Legacy

You will find most safety features standard regardless of package options, which really says something for Subaru. Frontal, side impact, and side curtain airbags along with an occupancy sensor keeps you and your passengers safe in the event of a collision. The 2011 Subaru Legacy offers only one optional safety feature and that is the parking assist. Everything else from traction control to rear child safety door locks and tire pressure monitors will be on each and every model from base to luxury.

How does the 2011 Subaru Legacy handle?

The steering ratio on the new Legacy makes this car handle like a dream. It can hug curves with the best of them and its all wheel drive delivers power where it's needed. The redesigned brake booster offers impressive stopping power for added driver confidence and safety. Its rigid, low chassis design give puts the final punch on handling. From thrill seeker to daily driver, the driving experience you'll get in a Legacy is sure to put a smile on your face.

How does the 2011 Subaru Legacy compare to other makes and models?

As far as competition goes, the only real thing one would need to consider is personal preference of appearance. The Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Mazda6 all offer very similar safety features, options, and performance. The Camry’s base model offers 169 horsepower, while the Accord and Mazda6 offer 180 and 170 respectively. With all of the great features the 2011 Legacy offers, the only real con would be seating space as 5 adults may be a bit cramped. Beyond this, however, the Legacy would be a great buying decision.