The Outside

I liked the outgoing Legacy. Its appearance — assertive up front, aggressive in profile — set it apart from a number of tubbier-looking competitors. Sadly, times have changed. The Legacy has caught up in girth, which Subaru says was in response to shoppers finding the last one too small. It isn't appreciably heavier by the numbers, but it no longer looks skinny, at least to my eyes.

The actual styling is a whole other affair. I see some Infiniti G37 up front, a Saab 9-5 in back and some Subaru Impreza along the sides. I find it not so much controversial — that can be a good thing — as simply overwrought, chaotic even. It's no worse than the Accord, another car stuck nursing wounds from the ugly stick. Decide for yourself about the Legacy's appeal, and drop me an email when you do.

    See also:

    Starting your vehicle
    NOTE All vehicle doors, the engine hood and trunk / rear gate must be closed prior to activating the remote engine start system. Any open entry point will prevent starting or cause the system t ...

    Cargo tray (if equipped)
    The cargo tray is provided to protect the cargo area carpet. This cargo tray is removable to facilitate easy clean up. Clean with a cloth when necessary using mild soap and water. It is importa ...

    Disc brake pad wear warning indicators
    The disc brake pad wear warning indicators on the disc brakes give a warning noise when the brake pads are worn. If a squeaking or scraping noise is heard from the disc brakes while braking, im ...