ShareThisSubaru's Legacy has embodied the beauty of all-wheel drive since 1989, the year Lexus and Infiniti appeared on the scene.
Now in its fourth generation, the compact sedan is awaiting a fifth-generation remodel based on the concept car shown at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
To keep the Subaru flagship competitive with the Nissan Altima or the deftly redesigned Mazda 6, the 2010 model is expected to offer a larger interior, created by a 108.3-inch wheelbase 3.2 inches longer than the current model's.
Truth be told, the current Legacy feels a little bit like the Toyota Camrys and Mitsubishi Galants of the 1990s in terms of proportions. Mid-size cars are now expected to offer full-size ambience in the American market.
The automotive offspring of Fuji Heavy Industries is busting the curve by actually increasing sales in a year when others are falling like a rock. In February, Subaru's sales were 1 percent higher than those of February 2008, and year-to-date sales were running 4 percent ahead of 2008's.
Much of the credit goes to the popular Forester crossover vehicle, as Legacy sales slipped. A remodeled 2010 Legacy could keep the momentum rolling.
The Legacy concept car, clad in brilliant "Ultimate Silver" paint, advances the beauty of all-wheel drive with a brawnier, bolder stance featuring wide wheel arches and a deep central grille accented by sharp headlamps with multiple LED lamps. The back end blends rounded edges with crisp horizontal lines and thin tail lamps that suggest a luxury performance sedan.
Meanwhile, the current 2009 model is attractive, well-powered and safe.
The recently added Legacy 3.0R adds a 6-cylinder option to the previous array of turbocharged and naturally aspirated 4-cylinder Boxer engines, so-called because the cylinders are horizontally opposed like four bicycle riders lying on their backs.
The new model adds features to the 4-cylinder Legacy 2.5i Special Edition, which for 2009 is equipped with the new Harman Kardon Premium Audio System, steering-wheel audio controls, an eight-way power driver's seat and a power glass moonroof.
Other Legacy models for 2009 include the base 2.5i, the 2.5i Limited with added luxury amenities, the 2.5GT Limited with a high-performance turbo/intercooled Boxer engine and the high-performance 2.5GT spec.B with six-speed manual transmission, specially tuned Bilstein Sport Suspension, 18-inch wheels and tires plus exclusive amenities and trim.
The review car, a 2.5GT, commands a base sticker price of $30,395, with $665 for delivery. Given the glut of great cars sitting in showrooms right now, this price seems a little high, despite the nice menu of standard equipment. Nonetheless, Subaru seems to have kept its fan club fairly well intact.
The turbocharged 2.5GT is extremely fast and maneuverable, with a low center of gravity that adds an element of safety, especially on snow-covered routes to the ski slopes.
With 243 horses flowing from the four combustion chambers, the torque pours through a five-speed automatic transmission that can be shifted manually in the Sportshift mode. Buyers also have the option of a six-speed stick
Legacy 6-cylinder and turbo models are equipped with the SI-Drive performance control system that allows the driver to adjust engine performance, control and efficiency by choosing from among three selectable modes: "Intelligent," "Sport" or "Sport Sharp." The choice is made with a rotary dial on the center console or a button on the steering wheel.
In the "Intelligent" mode, the system reduces engine torque and maximum power and switches to a softer throttle response suited to urban traffic and improving fuel efficiency by up to 10 percent.
"Sport" mode provides quicker throttle responses, while "Sport Sharp" delivers the quickest throttle response and more power at lower engine speeds.
Safety equipment includes front-seat side impact air bags and side curtain air bags for front and rear passengers. Active front head restraints can help reduce potential whiplash injury in a rear collision.
The base price for the GT covers a full menu of standard equipment that makes the sedan a near-luxury vehicle. A 385-watt Harmon Kardon audio system is outstanding. With the Premium trim, you get leather upholstery, heated seats and outside mirrors, automatic climate control and the full array of power accessories.
Having sold 3.6 million Legacy sedans and wagons since 1989, Subaru plans to keep the beauty of all-wheel drive alive when the fifth generation appears.
WHAT'S NEW: Styling tweaks in the last year of the fourth generation; 6-cylinder version in 2008.
PLUSES: Safety, performance, standard equipment.
MINUSES: Interior dimensions, price.
BOTTOM LINE: If you love Legacy, wait for 2010 model.
(E-mail Richard Williamson at motorfriend(at)sbcglobal.net)
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