
First Look: 2009 Subaru Legacy
By Zach Gale
The Subaru Legacy -- still the only midsize sedan with standard AWD -- drives into 2009 with revised trim levels and a number of subtle changes. Since the current-generation Legacy made its debut for 2005, Subaru has gently tweaked the car, adding the 2.5 GT spec.B and an available navigation system for 2006, SI-Drive controls for 2007, and the 3.0R Limited model for 2008.
All 2009 Legacys benefit from slightly different interior trim colors plus a smaller keyless entry remote transmitter -- an important change considering how often owners will be using it. Most of the other changes are focused on higher-end trims, such as the new Special Edition, which replaces the Premium model. The Special Edition packages together a 385-watt Harman-Kardon nine-speaker audio system, power moonroof, eight-way power driver seat, and Subaru's Vehicle Dynamics Control stability system, which is now available on all models except the 2.5 GT with the five-speed manual transmission.
Limited models get dual-zone automatic climate control and steering wheel controls, a change that makes its way onto the new 3.0 R base model as well. The 3.0 R model lowers the entry price for Legacys with Subaru's 245-hp 3.0L six-cylinder engine, although no word yet on the exact price. The 3.0 R Limited adds 18-in. wheels as standard equipment; 3.0 R models make do with 17-inchers.
Powertrain choices remain the same as last year. A 170-hp 2.5L four powers 2.5i models while a 243-hp 2.5L turbo four gets 2.5 GT models moving. At the top of the Legacy lineup are 3.0 R models, powered by a 245-hp six-cylinder engine. If you want a diesel packaged with the Legacy's AWD and clean, driver-focused (though small) interior, Subaru is preparing a torquey 2.0L diesel for the 2010 model. Until then, the 2009 Subaru Legacy seems ready to do battle in the midsize-sedan arena.




| 2009 Subaru Legacy |
| Vehicle layout | Front engine, AWD, 5-pass, 4-door sedan |
| Engine | 2.5L/170-hp/170-lb-ft DOHC 16-valve flat-4; 2.5L/243-hp/241-lb-ft DOHC 16-valve flat-4; 3.0L/245-hp/215-lb-ft DOHC 24-valve H-6 |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual; 4-speed automatic; 5-speed automatic |
| Curb weight (dist f/r) | 3270-3545 lbs (mfr) |
| Wheelbase | 105.1 in |
| Length x width x height | 185.0 x 68.1 x 56.1-56.5 in |
| Headroom, f/r | 37.6//36.5 in |
| Legroom, f/r | 44.1/33.9 in |
| Shoulder room, f/r | 54.2/53.7 in |
| Cargo volume | 11.4 cu.ft |
| EPA City/Hwy Econ | 17-20/24-27 mpg |
| CO2 Emissions | 0.86-0.99 lb/mile |
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