I like the idea of success without all the recognition. I like to hear about people who silently rise to the top without the need for glorification or fanfare. The strong silent types are the ones that often do the best, the ones who really succeed. And when they are finally recognized, it seems they’re applauded even more for doing so well without anyone even noticing.
That’s kind of how I feel about the 2015 Subaru Legacy. Not that it’s in the shadows, but it’s also not hugely in your face either on the road or even in advertising. It’s there. It does what it’s meant to do extremely well, and it gets rewarded for it including AJAC’s 2015 Canadian Car of the Year Award, along with AJAC’s Best New Family Car (Under $30K), as well as being a 2015 IIHS Top Safety Pick.
The Legacy has silently snuck into one of the top spots in the midsize segment, and with very good reason.
First impressions don’t lie
Over a year ago, I had the pleasure of travelling down to Lafayette, IN to drive the brand new 2015 Subaru Legacy. One of the more shocking reveals on that drive event was how little general consumers knew about the Legacy, and how few considered it a viable option when purchasing a new car in the midsize segment (despite it taking home the awards it does).
That made me a little sad since it wasn’t the first time I’d been behind the wheel of the Legacy, and I knew of its goodness on the road and its overall likability.
So, when I got another chance to spend some time with the 2015 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Touring, I leapt at the chance because my first impression was so good that I knew a repeat visit would be just as pleasant.
A vibrant wallflower
Here’s the thing about the Subaru Legacy; it’s not at all flashy or vibrant. It’s a midsize sedan that does a job, and does it well. It’s not ugly or ungainly; in fact its design is quite nice. One might even call the Legacy sophisticated and mature-looking. It’s got some really nice lines, and I really like the new front fascia that’s much more bold and beefy than the previous generation. The 18” aluminum alloy wheels on my Touring model secured its elegant, classy look.
Inside, that same demure yet functional look and design continues. The 2015 Subaru Legacy really does silently conquer all. Sitting in the Legacy for the first time, you’re not blown away by anything really. It’s a pleasant interior, comfortable and oh-so roomy, but not overly exciting or technologically loaded.
However, spend some time in there and the ergonomics and comfort of it all will impress you. You’ll exit the vehicle each time feeling satisfied with your time there, content in the layout of it all, and how easy it was to manipulate the HMI features, and (most importantly) drive.
With 425 litres of trunk space, a sizable backseat, and a super roomy front cabin, the 2016 Legacy is made for comfort and long hauls. While leather seating is available, my Touring featured cloth seating, which is just as good (if not better) when it comes to wear and tear and usability.
Gentleman on the streets, too
As demure and subdued as its looks are inside and out, the drive of the 2015 Subaru Legacy is anything but mundane. Equipped with a 2.5L 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine, the 2015 Legacy produces 175 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, and is paired with a Lineatronic CVT that’s actually quite pleasant to use.
While it’s not a ginormous amount of power, the Subaru Legacy has plenty of oomph, and the symmetrical AWD means that no matter what weather or road surfaces you throw this midsize sedan’s way, it will handle it with aplomb.
Unlike its rambunctious rally-inspired cousins (read: WRX/STI), the 2015 Subaru Legacy offers a plush, comfortable ride. Some might call it numb, but I like to call it unperturbed. The Legacy’s four-wheel fully independent suspension with double-wishbone in the rear and MacPherson strut up front along with STABLEX-Ride control dampers keeps the vehicle well-balanced and at ease, even over our roughest roads. It’s not a removed feeling, just a coddled one. I like it, a lot.
And a protective gentleman
Now, my particular test vehicle, the2.5i Touring with an optional Technology Package (MSRP $31,295) featured Subaru’s EyeSight safety system. Essentially, it enlists the help of two windshield-mounted cameras to “watch” the road ahead while you drive. Pre-collision warning/throttle management and brake assist help prevent accidents, as well as lane-departure warning, lane sway warnings and even a lead vehicle alert (which lets you know when the vehicle in front has driven off from a light so you don’t hold up traffic behind you) help you be a better driver. Of course, it can all be turned off and deactivated as you see fit, which is also a nice feature.
Overall, the 2015 Subaru Legacy is a highly capable car. I enjoyed it when I was first introduced to it over a year ago, and I enjoyed it just as much this second time around. The Legacy is definitely Subaru’s suited gentleman, and it shows in its design and its drive.
Road Tests and Reviews
Review Highlights
