2009 Subaru Legacy 3.0R Premier Package Review
The current-generation Legacy and Outback models were launched for the 2005 model year. But unlike some cars that go through a product cycle without any changes, Subaru is constantly improving its mid-size sedan and wagon offerings.
For 2009, the Legacy is getting yet another round of changes. The greenish PZEV models were presented on the Canadian auto show circuit despite the WRX STI grabbing all the attention, but there are other notable changes to the lineup.
First Legacy with 6-cylinder power
Previously offered in the Outback and the B9 Tribeca, Subaru’s 3.0-litre flat-6 has now been assigned to motivate uplevel versions of the Legacy. The 2.5GT model is replaced by the 3.0R, which is better suited to rival the competition’s V6-powered mid-size sedans. The 2.5GT spec.B still tops the model range, but gets a price drop for 2009.
Rated at 245 horsepower and 215 lb-ft of torque, the H6 in the Legacy is a smooth and quiet performer, and generally considered as more docile than the 243-hp turbo four. Yet it now gets SI-DRIVE, the company’s driver-selectable engine-management system, as well as wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
The car performs well when Sport Sharp mode is activated; 0-100 km/h takes 7.6 seconds, and the quarter-mile is cleared in 15.5 seconds at 146 km/h. In intelligent mode, the car is rewarding us with an average of 10.9 L/100 km, which is better than what the turbo 2.5 can do.
Competent chassis
The current Legacy has always been an agile car, and although it’s not a back-road burner, the car feels light on its feet. With little body roll and precise steering, it doesn’t mind at all being hustled by its driver. The ride can become a little harsh in badly-maintained roads, however.
Unlike most setups found in other all-wheel drive cars, Subaru’s sends power to all four wheels on a permanent basis. Together with stability and traction control systems (and a good set of tires), the 3.0R is sure-footed and a good choice for those who are afraid of Old Man Winter.
Fits like a glove
Since the Accord, Camry, Mazda6 and Malibu have all grown in size in recent years, the Legacy is slowly becoming the runt of the mid-size pack. The cockpit isn’t very spacious, but there’s enough room for four adults. Actually, five can fit, but the three rear occupants will draw straws to figure out who’s going to sit in the middle; the loser must put up with a transmission tunnel and a shortened seat cushion.
Fit and finish is very good, and the car’s interior is assembled with high-quality materials. The audio and climate control buttons are easy to operate while driving, and the wheel-mounted controls are perfectly-placed; I prefer the audio buttons on the left spoke. The 385-watt Harman Kardon sound system’s output is impressive.
Trunk space is adequate but a pull handle to close it would be nice.
For 2009, the navigation system is offered in 3.0R with the Premier Package as well as the 2.5GT spec.B. The touch screen makes punching in destinations quick and easy, although you have to get used to the various display buttons. The system also includes a fuel consumption meter, a calculator and a personal maintenance reminder.
Competition
The 2009 Legacy 3.0R Premier Package costs $38,995. If you don’t need a navigation system, the 3.0R Limited costs $2,000 less. Here’s a look at this Legacy’s similarly-equipped rivals:
Chevrolet Malibu LTZ with options, 252 hp, $34,805 (no navigation)
Dodge Avenger R/T AWD with options, 235 hp, $33,895
Ford Fusion SEL V6 AWD with options, 221 hp, $35,604
Honda Accord EX-L with options, 268 hp, $37,790
Hyundai Sonata Limited V6, 249 hp, $31,495 (no navigation)
Mazda6 GT-V6 with options, 212 hp, $37,905
Mitsubishi Galant Ralliart, 258 hp, $32,998
Nissan Altima 3.5 SE with options, 270 hp, $39,398
Pontiac G6 GXP with options, 252 hp, $37,605 (no navigation)
Saab 9-3 with options, 210 hp, $41,345
Saturn Aura XR with options, 252 hp, $33,395 (no navigation)
Toyota Camry XLE V6 with options, 268 hp, $36,620
Volkswagen Passat 3.6L 4MOTION, 280 hp, $49,425
As you can see, there aren’t many mid-size sedans that offer all-wheel drive within the Legacy’s price range. Many luxury manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz, Audi and BMW have AWD options, but they’ll cost much more than the Subaru.
Conclusion
This Legacy may be five years old, but it’s just starting to show its age, if only because the competition is getting fatter. The car gets revisions almost every year, which makes it age gracefully.
Subaru’s mid-size sedan isn’t cheap, but it’s a solid car that offers a long list of equipment, admirable performance and a host of safety features.
