In an effort to make the Legacy more mainstream, Subaru has created a larger and roomier sedan that’s definitely easier on the eyes. Subaru has an avid customer base, especially in the cold Northwest and New England states, who’s fans appreciate it’s quirky all-wheel drive offerings, but it’s hard to deny that this base hardly compares to Honda’s or Toyota’s. The Legacy redesign is significant because it elevates the car into direct competition with Mazda, Nissan, and Volkswagen.

The 2010 Legacy has grown 3.6 inches wider, 1.4 inches longer, and 3.2 inches taller. The overhangs are shorter and the stance more aggressive, making the overall package a lot more appealing than the outgoing model.

In its effort to gain market share in the segment, Subaru made sure to give buyers plenty of options. The engine offerings start with a fuel efficient four cylinder, adds a turbo for those looking for more pep, and finishes off with a strong V6. The 2.5 liter, four-cylinder base engine on the 2.5i is a good start, with 170 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque on tap. The EPA estimates it will return 23 mpg in the city/ 31 on the highway with the CVT transmission, and slightly less with the six speed manual.

For enthusiasts, the 2.5GT is the obvious choice. Subaru’s 2.5 liter turbocharged boxer engine produces 265 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque between 2,000 and 5,200 rpm, while returning a respectable 18/25 mpg. All turbo models will come with a six speed manual transmission. After considering the 2.5GT turbo, the V6 engine sourced from the Tribeca might not seem like step up from the turbo engine, but with a five speed automatic, it will undoubtedly appeal to those not willing to row through the gears on the manual turbo model. Horsepower on the 3.6 liter V6, known as the 3.6R model, is 256, and torque is 247 lb-ft. While power figures are pretty close, the V6 automatic does offer a smoother experience. Fuel economy is the same as the turbo.

Each variant has slightly different suspension tuning, but all Legacy models have an athletic feel in the corners. The Legacy is setup with Macpherson struts up front and a double wishbone suspension in the back. Being a Subaru, all models will have continuous all wheel drive. Another feature for 2010 lineup is an electronic parking brake which is enabled by a push of a button on the dash. The brake will automatically disengage when you drive away.

The base Legacy 2.5i starts at $20,690, including destination. New models will arrive in dealerships in late July.

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