31 March, 2009
Roomiest Legacy Ever with New Level of Comfort, Quiet and Refinement
Bold New Design Stands Apart from Mainstream Midsize Sedans
New 6-speed Manual and CVT Transmissions for Legacy 2.5i Models
2.5GT Model Gains 265-hp Turbo Engine and 6-Speed Transmission
New Legacy 3.6R Models Featuring More Powerful 6-Cylinder Engine
MISSISSAUGA, Ontario - Subaru Canada, Inc. (SCI) today announced that the all-new 2010 Legacy sedan will debut at the New York International Auto Show, with bolder design language and a larger midsize package. Legacy, renowned for its sporty handling and reliability, has been further enhanced with a longer wheelbase, a revised suspension design, 100mm (almost 4 inches) of added rear seat legroom, and a new powertrain lineup that includes the new Subaru Lineartronic™ CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).
The Legacy lineup for 2010 offers four well-equipped models—Legacy 2.5i, PZEV, 2.5GT, and 3.6R—along with several packages for even more performance, comfort, and luxury. And, of course, every Subaru is equipped with Symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive. Legacy is the only midsize sedan equipped with this performance- and safety-enhancing system as a standard feature.
Performance Starts with Revised 2.5-litre Boxer Engine with New 6-Speed Manual or CVT
The 2010 Legacy 2.5i and PZEV models are powered by a revised 2.5-litre 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine with improved performance, responsiveness, and economy. The engine delivers 170 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 170 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,000 rpm; 400 rpm lower than last year for more power in everyday driving situations. Subaru’s i-Active Valve Lift System ensures a broad torque curve and smooth response at all engine speeds, while helping to improve fuel efficiency. All Legacy models for 2010 also feature a larger fuel tank, now 70 litres (18.5 gallons) vs. 64 litres (16.9 gallons) in the previous model, to extend driving range.
The Legacy PZEV also meets strict emissions standards set by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Subaru PZEV vehicles in Canada meet the Super Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle tailpipe emission standard (SULEV) and eliminate fuel-system evaporative emissions. Compared to an average new vehicle, Subaru PZEV vehicles have 90 percent cleaner emissions.
For the 2010 Legacy, the 2.5-litre engine may be teamed with a new 6-speed manual transmission or, for the first time, the new Lineartronic™ CVT. The CVT is optional on Legacy 2.5i and standard on the Legacy PZEV.
Unlike a conventional automatic transmission, which uses fixed gear ratios, a CVT provides infinite variability between the highest and lowest available ratios with no discernable steps or shifts. The CVT continuously and smoothly adapts to performance demand, to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range.
Because a CVT does not shift gears, the driver enjoys smoother performance in all driving situations. For drivers who sometimes prefer to shift for themselves, the Lineartronic™ CVT offers a selectable “6-speed” manual mode that allows drivers to shift manually using steering wheel paddle controls.
Every Legacy now also features an all-new driver selectable electronic Hill Holder System that holds the vehicle in place on an incline until the driver applies the throttle to pull away from a stop.
Whether teamed with the new 6-speed manual transmission or the Lineartronic™ CVT, the roomier 2010 Legacy provides quicker acceleration and lower fuel consumption than previous Legacy models. Either transmission helps make the Legacy more responsive in everyday driving.
Legacy 2.5GT: 265 Turbocharged Horses
The new-generation Legacy 2.5GT gets a significant boost in performance from the revised 2.5-litre turbocharged/intercooled engine (based on the Impreza WRX265 engine). A larger turbocharger increases boost, Dual Active Valve Control enhances power throughout the rev range, and a new exhaust uses a low-density catalyst for reduced backpressure. To improve weight distribution and help lower the centre of gravity, the turbocharger is now mounted below the engine. This also reduces emissions as the turbocharger is now positioned closer to the catalytic converter.
The engine now produces 265 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 258 lb.-ft. of torque from 2000 rpm to 5,200 rpm, compared to 243 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 241 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,600 rpm for the previous version. A new standard 6-speed manual transmission is more than 22.7kg (50 pounds) lighter than the 6-speed unit formerly available only on the Legacy 2.5GT spec.B. Harnessing the added power and efficiency, the 2010 Legacy 2.5GT can accelerate from zero to 100kph in under six seconds.
3.6-litre H6 Engine: Premium Performance with Regular-Grade Fuel
The 3.6-litre H6 engine first introduced in the 2008 Subaru Tribeca replaces the previous 3.0-litre H6, yet features the same external dimensions thanks primarily to a unique shortened connecting rod design. As a result, this larger-displacement and more powerful engine maintains its excellent low centre of gravity. The 3.6 SUBARU BOXER engine produces 256 horsepower and 247 lb.-ft. of peak torque, compared to 245 horsepower and 215 lb.-ft. of torque for the previous 3.0-litre engine. The Dual Active Valve Control System variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust valves, optimizes power delivery across the engine’s speed range while helping to reduce emissions.
Not only does the 3.6-litre engine offer greater performance than the previous 3.0-litre unit, but it does so using regular-grade fuel instead of premium to reduce operating costs. The specially tuned 5-speed automatic transmission with blipping control, combined with the greater torque output of the new engine, helps make the Legacy 3.6R more responsive when driving in hilly areas by significantly reducing “hunting” between gears.
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive a Key to Performance and Safety
Subaru offers three different Symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive systems in the 2010 Legacy line, each tailored to the engine and type of transmission. In Legacy 2.5i models equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission, the AWD system uses a viscous-coupling, limited-slip centre differential to distribute power 50/50 front to rear.
Legacy 2.5i models equipped with the Lineartronic™ CVT use an electronically controlled multi-plate transfer clutch system.
Legacy 3.6R models feature advanced Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) All-Wheel Drive with a 5-speed automatic transmission. VTD is a highly sophisticated AWD system that employs an electro-mechanical centre differential with the advanced capabilities of a planetary gear set. The VTD system normally sends more power to the rear wheels to enhance handling agility, and it continuously adjusts power distribution in response to driving and road conditions. In dry conditions power is distributed 45/55 front to rear. On slippery surfaces power is balanced 50/50 front to rear.
Confident, Agile Handling and Safety for Any Road … or Any Weather
The new Legacy improves crash-worthiness and provides a stiffer platform for a smoother, quieter ride, but retains the crisp handling and balance that is the hallmark of Subaru.
All Legacy models for 2010 are equipped with Vehicle Dynamics Control system, which combines stability and traction control capability. They are also fitted with a standard 4-channel/4-wheel disc Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist.
The MacPherson-type strut front suspension is mounted to a new engine cradle, and the engine is attached to the cradle using new hydraulic mounts. The cradle uses high-strength steel and is designed to provide added frontal crash protection. A new double-wishbone rear suspension, mounted to a sub frame, replaces the previous multi-link configuration to provide improved ride, stability and handling. The enhanced body rigidity and the revised suspension design help to reduce levels of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). Increased wheel travel and optimized suspension geometry also improve ride comfort.
Bold Design Statement
The 2010 Legacy, while rivaling midsize segment leaders in roominess, stands apart with a bold, high-tech look. Character lines arc from the grille, creating a muscular hood that tapers off as it flows into the A-pillar. The sleek silhouette incorporates a larger greenhouse, and a shorter deck has a sporty look. Powerful wheel arches echo the power running through the Symmetrical full-time AWD System. A range of new wheel designs also debut on the 2010 Legacy.
Besting Midsize Benchmarks
Legacy’s all-new platform creates roominess that is comparable to mainstream midsize sedans, with a focus on usable space and long-distance driving comfort. The wheelbase grows to 2,750mm (108.3 inches), an 80mm (3.2 inch) increase over the previous model. The 2010 Legacy also provides 100mm (4 inches) of additional rear legroom, which is enhanced by the scalloped back design of the new front seats.
The new Legacy is 80mm (3.2 inches) higher and 90mm (3.6 inches) wider than the previous model, for additional head, shoulder and hip room. It also offers more total passenger room (2,917L or 103 ft3) than many competitors. The new-generation Legacy also offers one of the largest trunks (416L or 14.7 ft3) in the segment—a significant achievement considering that Legacy’s design must also accommodate a rear differential and drive axles. Overall vehicle length increased by just 30mm to 4,735mm (1.4 inches/186.4 inches), but the overhang is actually reduced. Even with the larger size, however, the new Legacy is more fuel efficient than its predecessor.
The 2010 Legacy is even more refined than the previous model. The sporty four-dial instrument panel now includes a multi-information display with trip computer located in the centre of the dashboard. Richer-looking appointments and details abound. A new driver-selectable electronic parking brake eliminates the traditional parking brake handle and frees up space in the centre console.
New Levels of Comfort and Convenience in All Models
Standard comfort and available amenities are increased across the Legacy line for 2010. The 2.5i and PZEV feature standard air conditioning, heated front seats, CD/AM/FM/MP3/WMA audio system with standard steering wheel audio buttons and auxiliary input jack, cruise control with steering-wheel mounted controls, a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat, fully automatic headlights, and heated power-adjustable door mirrors.
Legacy PZEV is further equipped with standard alloy wheels and power driver’s seat.
The Legacy 2.5GT and 3.6R increase luxury and performance with added features that include a media hub with complete iPod and USB integration, SIRIUS® Satellite Radio, power moonroof, windshield wiper de-icer, and auto-dimming rear view mirror with compass—as well as features that are unique to the character of each model.
An optional Sport Package may be added to the Legacy 2.5i, which includes 17-inch alloy wheels, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear selector, power moonroof, windshield wiper de-icer, auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass, stainless steel exhaust tip, power driver’s seat, rear trunk spoiler, a media hub with complete iPod and USB integration, and SIRIUS® Satellite Radio.
The 2.5i and 3.6R may also be equipped with a Limited Package that includes a power passenger seat, automatic dual-zone climate control, a 6CD AM/FM/MP3/WMA premium audio system with 9 Harman Kardon® speakers, woodgrain interior trim, and leather upholstery. On the 2.5i, this package also includes the standard Lineartronic™ CVT.
A Multimedia option is available to be added to the Limited Package for both the 2.5i and 3.6R. This includes a voice-activated navigation system, a back-up camera, voice-activated Bluetooth®, streaming Bluetooth® audio, and CD/DVD player.
The Subaru Safety Story
The Legacy, like all Subaru models, has consistently earned top scores in government and insurance industry crash tests. The 2010 Legacy is designed to provide even better occupant protection. Subaru’s Advanced Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame safety structure, proven over a decade in all Subaru models, again forms the foundation for crash protection and occupant safety in the new-generation Legacy. A new engine cradle design improves front impact safety, and the 2010 Legacy features greater use of high-strength steel.
The 2010 Legacy models include standard front seat-mounted side impact air bags, and side curtain air bags that offer additional head protection for front and rear occupants. Dual-stage deployment front air bags use sensors to detect the presence and weight of a front passenger and also the driver’s distance from the steering wheel. The system determines front air bag deployment strength for optimal occupant protection.
New high-strength front seat frames provide added protection against whiplash injury in a rear-end collision. The entire seat is designed to protect the occupant from the effects of a rear-end collision. Due to the effectiveness of this new seat design Subaru replaced the previous active front head restraints with a more comfortable design.
About Subaru Canada, Inc.
Subaru Canada, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of 88 authorized dealers across Canada. In addition, Subaru boasts the most fuel-efficient lineup of All-Wheel Drive products sold in the market today based on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc., where Legacy is manufactured for the North American market, is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation.
CONTACT: Elaine Griffin or Jen Giller (905) 568-4959
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