What makes a car truly comfortable? Air conditioning? Heated seats? Power window shades? Sure, those are all a good start, but with today’s modern luxuries, there are so many extras that can make your commute a comfortable one.

The folks at Kelley Blue Book have assembled the 10 most comfortable cars under $30,000. Not surprisingly Buick placed highly, taking both the first and second spots. And that first place went to none other than the new Buick LaCrosse.

Get the complete list of the Top 10 most Comfortable Cars (and why they made the list) after the jump:

1. 2010 Buick LaCrosse: Key comfort points include a spacious interior, soothing ice blue ambient lighting, and the QuietTuning system (reduces, blocks and absorbs interior noise).
2. 2010 Buick Lucerne: Boasts a smooth ride, soft seats and an impressively quiet interior.
3. 2010 Chrysler 300: Comfortably poised cruiser that’s easy to drive.
4. 2010 Chevrolet Impala: Comfortable, sizeable and affordable.
5. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu: This vehicle offers quiet ride, confident handling, and a well-crafted look inside and out, as well as heated front seats, a two-tone leather-clad interior and Bluetooth.
6. 2010 Ford Taurus: Comes with ample passenger room for five and enough cargo room for plenty of luggage, as well as SYNC for your cell phone and portable music devices.
7. 2010 Hyundai Azera: Plenty of room up front and in the back, with seating that feels like you’re in your favorite chair.
8. 2010 Subaru Legacy: Superb seating and roomy cabin, and offers excellent ride quality, minimal body roll and a quiet interior.
9. 2010 Toyota Avalon: Standard reclining rear seats, a relaxed ride, an inviting cabin and eye-catching styling make this one cushy ride.
10. 2010 Toyota Camry: Soft yet supple suspension, coupled with plush seats, make traffic tolerable, as does the quiet cabin with dual-zone automatic climate control.

[Source: Kelley Blue Book]

Subaru is recalling 70,000 2010 Legacy and Outback models due to a defective steering column electrical roll connector. A broken wire within this component can cause the airbags, paddle shifters, horn or steering wheel audio controls to malfunction.

A Subaru spokesperson told Inside Line that the recall resulted in no injuries and the fix takes roughly an hour. In May, Subaru recalled nearly 30,000 of these vehicles to replace a fault hose in the CVT gearbox.

[Source: Inside Line]

If the recession is slowly beginning to end, it’s companies like Subaru that are leading the charge. The Japanese automaker recorded its best sales ever in July with 21,839 units sold, compared to 16,271 units during the same period last year. That’s an increase of 34 percent!

While a lot of credit can be given to the fact that in July Subaru brought the new 2010 Legacy and Outback to dealerships, both the Forester and Impreza out-paced the new models. Outback sales were up 33 percent over last July, while Legacy sales were up 34 percent. The Forester posted a 36 percent increase while the Impreza wracked up an amazing 41 percent climb. In fact, the only model to suffer decline was the Tribeca SUV, which is sold in such small volume anyway that it doesn’t have much of an effect on overall sales.

“Our sales reflect that our brand has solidly connected with customers,” said Subaru of America executive VP and COO Tom Doll. ”We have been consistent with everything we have done to build not only safe, durable, fun-to-drive vehicles, but also the Subaru brand.”

Official release after the jump:

Subaru of America, Inc. Announces Sales Results for Best Month Ever

- The Company Posted a 34-Percent Increase in Sales for July -

CHERRY HILL, N.J., Aug. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. today
announced that it had its best sales month ever with a 34-percent increase in
sales in July. The company sold 21,839 units this July versus 16,271 units in
July 2008 and had a 4-percent gain year-over-year. Subaru sales for July 2009
also showed a 17-percent increase over June 2009 Subaru sales.  

The introduction of the new 2010 Subaru Legacy and Outback vehicles kept the
momentum going for the car company as it continues to outpace the industry.
The Subaru Legacy posted a 34-percent increase, the Outback a 33-percent
increase, while the Impreza posted a record sales month and the most gains
with a 41-percent sales increase, with the Forester continuing to bring in
strong sales with an increase of 36-percent, which also represented a monthly
record.  

"July's record results built on the momentum we've established this year. The
month started strong and gained momentum with the 2010 Legacy and Outback
launches. We were in a position for a very good month already, but when the
CARS program hit, things went to the next level," said Tim Colbeck, senior
vice president of sales, Subaru of America, Inc. "Our success this month
reflects the strength of the Subaru model line-up. The Subaru Impreza and
Forester models set monthly records while the brand new Legacy and Outback
are off to a strong start."

              Jul-09   Jul-08   % chg   YTD July-09   YTD July-08   % chg
    Legacy     2,340    1,748     34%        14,967        13,075     14%
    Outback*   4,971    3,746     33%        23,898        28,725    -17%
    Impreza    6,247    4,430     41%        28,404        27,973      2%
    Forester   7,574    5,559     36%        43,732        33,128     32%
    Tribeca      707      788    -10%         4,144         7,464    -44%
    Total**   21,839   16,271     34%        15,145       110,365      4%

    * Includes Legacy Wagon
    **2008 total does not include 1 Baja sale in 2008

"We have been consistent with everything we have done to build not only safe,
durable, fun-to-drive vehicles, but also the Subaru brand," said Tom Doll,
executive vice president and chief operating officer, Subaru of America, Inc.
"Our sales reflect that our brand has solidly connected with customers and we
look forward to building great relationships with them as well."

Subaru has just released its EPA fuel-economy numbers for the 2010 Legacy with some impressive figures. The base 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, when paired with Subaru’s CVT transmission, gets 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway for a combined total of 26 mpg. This rating is better, Subaru notes, than base-engine competitors including the Honda Accord, Mazda6i, VW Passat and Hyundai Sonata. What is particularly impressive is how the Legacy manages this feat with all-wheel drive.

In fact, the Legacy 2.5i CVT (priced at $19,995) is now the highest rated midsize AWD sedan in the U.S.

“We are thrilled that the all-new 2010 Legacy not only offers more space and a more rewarding drive than the competition, but it also delivers better fuel economy at a very competitive price,” said Tim Mahoney, senior VP at Subaru of America.

The Legacy 2.5i is also available with a six-speed manual transmission which achieves 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway for a combined total of 27 mpg.

Follow the jump for a full list of EPA ratings for the different 2010 Legacy models:

Legacy 2.5i 6MT 19 mpg city / 22 mpg combined / 27 mpg hwy
Legacy 2.5i CVT 23 mpg city / 26 mpg combined / 31 mpg hwy
Legacy 2.5GT 6MT 18 mpg city / 21 mpg combined / 25 mpg hwy
Legacy 3.6R 5AT 18 mpg city / 21 mpg combined / 25 mpg hwy

Is this the face of a race car? Subaru certainly thinks so.

The latest rumors indicate that the automaker intends to enter a version of its new 2010 Legacy model (launched at the New York Auto Show this year) into Japan’s top-level Super GT series. The car will no doubt receive numerous modifications, but engine output won’t be changed all that much. The reason for this is that Subaru will race the car in the 300 (meaning 300hp) class – rather than the highest 500 class.

A Legacy 2.5GT is the likely choice to form the basis of the race car, especially as it sports a new 2.5-liter boxer engine with 265hp and 258 ft-lbs of torque.

The move is surprising as the cash-strapped automaker pulled from the World Rally Championship (WRC) this year, citing economic reasons. Subaru teams had, however, performed poorly the past few years.

No doubt the Super GT entry will be much less expensive to run than a full WRC team and besides, it would be a shame to reassign those Subaru racing engineers to the accounting department.

[Source: Nihon Car]

As promised, Subaru debuted its 2010 Legacy model at the New York Auto Show and there’s a lot to talk about. 

The car is based on an entirely new platform that has a 3.2-inch longer wheelbase than the previous model for a total of 108.3-inches. Height and width are also up by 3.2-inches and 3.6-inches respectively. Vehicle length has increased by just 1.4-inches.

The benefits of the platform are seen mostly inside, with rear seat legroom increasing by 4-inches.

Also new for 2010 are several of the engines.

The Legacy 2.5i models (the 2.5i, 2.5i Premium and 2.5i Limited) will all get a 2.5-liter boxer engine that makes 170 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 170 ft-lbs of torque at 4000 rpm. A new six-sped manual will come standard with a“Lineartronic” CVT transmission optional. Subaru says both trannies will offer better acceleration and fuel economy.

Legacy 2.5GT models (2.5GT Premium and 2.5GT Limited) will come equipped with a new turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer engine with the turbocharger mounted below the engine for better response, improved emissions and a better center of gravity. Power is rated at 265hp and 258 ft-lbs of torque, an increase of 22hp and 17 ft-lbs of torque over the outgoing model. Subaru says the 2.5GT will be able to hit 60 mph in under 6 seconds.

The 2.5GT models will also come standard with a new 6-speed manual transmission that is more than 50 lbs lighter than the one in the 2009 Legacy 2.5GT spec.B.

As for the top level 3.6R models (3.6R, 3.6R Premium and 3.6R Limited), they will feature a new 3.6-liter boxer engine that makes 256hp and 247 ft-lbs of torque – an increase of 11hp and 32 ft-lbs over the ‘09 model. All 3.6R models get a five speed automatic transmission and only require regular octane fuel (not premium).

The suspension setup for the 2010 Legacy also gets an adjustment – as promised. The front maintains it’s MacPherson-type strut setup, while the rear gets a double-wishbone setup (as opposed to the old multi-link design). This, says Subaru, gives the 2010 Legacy a better ride, along with improved stability and handling.

GALLERY: 2010 Subaru Legacy

More on the 2010 Subaru Legacy after the jump:

Subaru to Introduce All-New 2010 Legacy at New York International Auto Show

PRNewswire
NEW YORK

- 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 Models Gain 265-hp Turbo Engine and 6-Speed Transmission

- New Legacy 3.6R Models Featuring More Powerful 6-Cylinder Engine

NEW YORK, March 31 /PRNewswire/ — Subaru of America, Inc. today announced that the all-new 2010 Legacy® sedan will debut at the New York International Auto Show, providing a bolder design language in a larger midsize package. The 2010 Legacy, whose predecessor is renowned for its sporty handling and reliability, now features a longer wheelbase, almost four inches of extra rear seat legroom and a new powertrain lineup featuring the new Subaru Lineartronic™ CVT (continuously variable transmission).

The 2010 Legacy is built on a new platform that increases room and comfort while preserving the agility and fun-to-drive spirit of the previous model. New powertrains and new suspension design combine with proven Subaru safety technology to deliver a unique offering in the midsize segment. As are all Subaru models, every Legacy is equipped as standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, an invaluable performance- and safety-enhancing system that sets Legacy apart among midsize sedans. All-wheel drive is rare in the midsize segment, and only Legacy makes it standard.

The Legacy line for 2010 will offer three levels of performance. Legacy 2.5i models — 2.5i, 2.5i Premium and 2.5i Limited — are powered by a revised 170-hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine (with available PZEV rating) and equipped with a new standard 6-speed manual transmission or the new Lineartronic™ CVT. Both transmissions help to improve acceleration, response and fuel economy.

The Legacy 2.5GT models make a leap in performance for 2010. Both the 2.5GT Premium and 2.5GT Limited models are powered by a new 265-hp turbocharged / intercooled Boxer engine. The new engine features a unique turbocharger that is mounted below the engine. This new location not only contributes to smooth turbocharger response and improved emissions, but also lowers the car’s center of gravity. In the Legacy 2.5GT models, this high-performance engine is mated with a new 6-speed manual transmission. Designed for the discerning enthusiast, the Legacy 2.5GT models are equipped to challenge some of the best names in the sport sedan field.

Three new Legacy 3.6R models – the 3.6R, 3.6R Premium and 3.6R Limited – offer a sophisticated blend of performance and comfort. All are powered by a new 256-hp 3.6-liter 6-cylinder Boxer engine matched to a 5-speed electronic automatic transmission. Compared to the 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine it replaces, the more powerful 3.6 has the same external size and uses regular-grade fuel, rather than premium as the 3.0 required.

Bold Design Statement in the Midsize Arena

The 2010 Legacy, while rivaling midsize segment leaders in roominess, stands apart with a bold, high-tech look. The Subaru badge centers the new grille, which features a squared off lower edge. Character lines arc from the grille and form power bulges on the hood and taper off into the A-pillar. The sleek silhouette incorporates a larger greenhouse, and a shorter deck gives the vehicle a sporty look. Powerful wheel arches echo the power running through the Symmetrical AWD System. A range of new wheel cover- and alloy-wheel designs also debut on the 2010 Legacy, with the 2.5GT models featuring 18-in. alloy wheels and low-profile tires. A functional hood scoop directs air to the engine-mounted intercooler.

Besting Midsize Benchmarks

Built on an all-new platform, the 2010 Legacy offers roominess comparable to mainstream midsize sedans, with a focus on usable space and long-distance driving comfort. The wheelbase grows to 108.3-in., a 3.2-in. increase over the previous Legacy. The 2010 Legacy provides nearly four inches of additional rear legroom, which is enhanced by the scalloped back design of the new front seats.

The new Legacy is 3.2-in. higher and 3.6-in. wider than the previous model, yielding gains in head, shoulder and hip room. The 2010 Legacy offers more total passenger room (103 cu. ft.) than many competitors. The new-generation Legacy also offers one of the largest trunks (14.7 cu. ft.) in the segment – a significant achievement considering that the car’s design requires packaging a rear differential and drive axles. Overall vehicle length is up by just 1.4-in. (now 186.4 in.), but overhang dimensions are reduced compared with the previous model.

The 2010 Legacy interior is not only more spacious than before, but takes another step up in refinement from an already-praised design in the previous model. The sporty four-dial instrument panel is augmented in all Legacy models by a multi-information display with trip computer located in the center of the dashboard. Richer looking appointments and details abound, including a sporty 3-spoke steering wheel (leather-wrapped in all but the base 2.5i). A new electronic parking brake – with an electronic Hill Holder System — eliminates the traditional parking brake handle, freeing up space in the center console.

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 Subarus are known for. Legacy 2.5i and 2.5i Premium models feature 16-in. wheels (alloy on Premium); the 2.5GT models are exclusively equipped with 18-in. alloy wheels with 225/45R18 tires. The 6-cylinder Legacy 3.6R models have 17-in. alloy wheels with 225/50R17 tires.

All Legacy models for 2010 are equipped as standard with Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), which combines stability and traction control capability. All 2010 Legacy models are equipped with a standard 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). Additionally, Subaru’s Brake Assist safety system is available on all models.

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 new cradle uses high-strength steel and is designed to also enhance 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 enhancement of body rigidity and the new suspension design help to reduce levels of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). Increased wheel travel and optimized suspension geometry also contribute to improved ride comfort.

New Level of Comfort and Convenience in All Models

Standard comfort and available amenities are increased across the Legacy line for 2010. The base 2.5i model, for example, features standard steering wheel audio and cruise control buttons, a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat, new electronic parking brake, automatic lights-on function, ambient overhead console lighting and an available iPod jack. The all-new electronic Hill Holder System holds the vehicle in place until the driver applies the throttle to pull away from a stop. Previous versions of this system only held the car for a few seconds.

Legacy Premium models add more amenities, including an 8-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support adjustment and driver’s auto up/down window. The Premium models also offer additional comfort and convenience options, including a harman-kardon® audio system, a power moonroof, and the All-Weather Package that adds heated front seats and mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer.

The Legacy Limited models feature leather upholstery, dual zone automatic climate control and a 4-way power front passenger seat. The Limited models exclusively offer an available voice-activated GPS navigation system with an 8-in. LCD display and rear-view backup camera, hands-free Bluetooth® connectivity and streaming Bluetooth audio.

Revised 2.5-liter Boxer Engine with New 6-Speed Manual or CVT

The 2010 Legacy 2.5i models are powered by a revised 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine, teamed for the first time to a new 6-speed manual transmission or the available new Lineartronic™ CVT. The CVT is standard in the Legacy 2.5i Limited, where it is also equipped with a manual mode and steering wheel paddle shifters.

The 2.5-liter engine, which is available as PZEV-certified, is modified for 2010 to improve performance, responsiveness, and economy. The engine delivers 170 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm and 170 lb.-ft. of peak torque @ 4,000 rpm. The i-Active Valve Lift System (AVLS) ensures a broad torque curve and smooth response at all engine speeds, while also helping to improve fuel efficiency. All Legacy models for 2010 feature a larger fuel tank, now 18.5 gallons vs. 16.9 gallons in the previous model, to extend driving range.

Whether teamed to the new 6-speed manual transmission or the Lineartronic™ CVT, the roomier 2010 Legacy provides quicker acceleration and lower fuel consumption than comparable 2009 Legacy models. Either transmission helps make the Legacy more responsive in everyday driving.

Subaru has adopted a chain-type CVT, the world’s first longitudinally mounted CVT system for AWD production vehicles. It employs smaller pulley cores, which helps make the unit compact and can help provide better fuel efficiency compared to belt-type CVTs. 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, helping 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. The selectable manual mode of the Lineartronic™ CVT uses six pre-selected steps to allow the driver to “shift” manually using steering wheel paddle controls.

Legacy 2.5GT: 265 Turbocharged Horses

The new-generation Legacy 2.5GT models get a significant boost in performance from the revised 2.5-liter turbocharged / intercooled engine (based on the Impreza WRX engine) teamed to a new standard 6-speed manual transmission. Notably, the new 6-speed is more than 50 pounds lighter than the 6-speed unit used in the 2009 Legacy 2.5GT spec.B.

A larger turbocharger increases boost, and a new exhaust uses a low-density catalyst for reduced backpressure. To improve weight distribution and help lower the center of gravity, the turbocharger is now mounted below the engine. With 265 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of peak torque (compared to 243 hp and 241 lb.-ft. in the previous 2.5GT models), the 2010 Legacy 2.5GT models can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in under six seconds.

3.6-liter H6 Engine: Premium Performance with Regular-Grade Fuel

The new 3.6-liter H6 engine replaces the previous 3.0-liter 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 center of gravity. The 3.6 Boxer engine produces 256 horsepower and 247 lb.-ft. of peak torque, compared to 245 hp and 215 lb.-ft. of torque for the previous 3.0-liter engine. Active Valve Control System (AVCS) 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 engine offer greater performance than the previous 3.0-liter unit, but does so using regular-grade fuel compared to premium required in the 3.0. The specially tuned five-speed automatic transmission, combined with the greater torque output of the new engine, helps make the Legacy 3.6R models more responsive when driving in hilly areas by significantly reducing “hunting” between gears.

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive A Key To Brand Identity

Subaru offers three different Symmetrical 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 locking center differential to distribute power 50/50 front to rear. Slippage at either set of wheels will send more power to the opposite set.

Legacy 2.5i models equipped with the Lineartronic™ CVT use an electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch to actively control power distribution in response to driving conditions.

Legacy 3.6R models exclusively feature advanced Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) All-Wheel Drive with a 5-speed automatic transmission. A planetary center differential works with an electronically controlled continuously variable hydraulic transfer clutch to manage power distribution. 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.

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 further raise the safety quotient. Subaru’s 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 2010 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 as standard equipment front seat side impact air bags and side curtain air bags that offer additional head protection for front and rear occupants. Intelligent 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 in the 2010 Legacy, high-strength front seat frames provide enhanced protection against whiplash injury in a rear-end collision. With the entire seat optimized for a rear-end collision, Subaru replaced the previous active front head restraints with a more comfortable design.

Subaru has decided not to wait until the show floor opens in New York next week to unveil the 2010 Legacy.

The new Legacy isn’t quite as bold a beast as the concept car first shown at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January, but it is quite a looker – which is rare from Subaru.

The car is based on an entirely new platform that has a 3.2-inch longer wheelbase than the previous model for a total of 108.3-inches. Height and width are also up by 3.2-inches and 3.6-inches respectively. Vehicle length has increased by just 1.4-inches.

The benefits of the platform are seen mostly inside, with rear seat legroom increasing by 4-inches.

Also new for 2010 are several of the engines.

The Legacy 2.5i models (the 2.5i, 2.5i Premium and 2.5i Limited) will all get a 2.5-liter boxer engine that makes 170 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 170 ft-lbs of torque at 4000 rpm. A new six-sped manual will come standard with a “Lineartronic” CVT transmission optional. Subaru says both trannies will offer better acceleration and fuel economy.

Legacy 2.5GT models (2.5GT Premium and 2.5GT Limited) will come equipped with a new turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer engine with the turbocharger mounted below the engine for better response, improved emissions and a better center of gravity. Power is rated at 265hp and 258 ft-lbs of torque, an increase of 22hp and 17 ft-lbs of torque over the outgoing model. Subaru says the 2.5GT will be able to hit 60 mph in under 6 seconds.

The 2.5GT models will also come standard with a new 6-speed manual transmission that is more than 50 lbs lighter than the one in the 2009 Legacy 2.5GT spec.B.

As for the top level 3.6R models (3.6R, 3.6R Premium and 3.6R Limited), they will feature a new 3.6-liter boxer engine that makes 256hp and 247 ft-lbs of torque – an increase of 11hp and 32 ft-lbs over the ’09 model. All 3.6R models get a five speed automatic transmission and only require regular octane fuel (not premium).

The suspension setup for the 2010 Legacy also gets an adjustment – as promised. The front maintains it’s MacPherson-type strut setup, while the rear gets a double-wishbone setup (as opposed to the old multi-link design). This, says Subaru, gives the 2010 Legacy a better ride, along with improved stability and handling.

We’ll bring you more details from the New York Auto Show starting April 8th.

GALLERY: 2010 Subaru Legacy

More on the 2010 Subaru Legacy After the jump:

Subaru to Introduce All-New 2010 Legacy at New York International Auto Show

PRNewswire
NEW YORK

- 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 Models Gain 265-hp Turbo Engine and 6-Speed Transmission

- New Legacy 3.6R Models Featuring More Powerful 6-Cylinder Engine

NEW YORK, March 31 /PRNewswire/ — Subaru of America, Inc. today announced that the all-new 2010 Legacy® sedan will debut at the New York International Auto Show, providing a bolder design language in a larger midsize package. The 2010 Legacy, whose predecessor is renowned for its sporty handling and reliability, now features a longer wheelbase, almost four inches of extra rear seat legroom and a new powertrain lineup featuring the new Subaru Lineartronic™ CVT (continuously variable transmission).

The 2010 Legacy is built on a new platform that increases room and comfort while preserving the agility and fun-to-drive spirit of the previous model. New powertrains and new suspension design combine with proven Subaru safety technology to deliver a unique offering in the midsize segment. As are all Subaru models, every Legacy is equipped as standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, an invaluable performance- and safety-enhancing system that sets Legacy apart among midsize sedans. All-wheel drive is rare in the midsize segment, and only Legacy makes it standard.

The Legacy line for 2010 will offer three levels of performance. Legacy 2.5i models — 2.5i, 2.5i Premium and 2.5i Limited — are powered by a revised 170-hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine (with available PZEV rating) and equipped with a new standard 6-speed manual transmission or the new Lineartronic™ CVT. Both transmissions help to improve acceleration, response and fuel economy.

The Legacy 2.5GT models make a leap in performance for 2010. Both the 2.5GT Premium and 2.5GT Limited models are powered by a new 265-hp turbocharged / intercooled Boxer engine. The new engine features a unique turbocharger that is mounted below the engine. This new location not only contributes to smooth turbocharger response and improved emissions, but also lowers the car’s center of gravity. In the Legacy 2.5GT models, this high-performance engine is mated with a new 6-speed manual transmission. Designed for the discerning enthusiast, the Legacy 2.5GT models are equipped to challenge some of the best names in the sport sedan field.

Three new Legacy 3.6R models – the 3.6R, 3.6R Premium and 3.6R Limited – offer a sophisticated blend of performance and comfort. All are powered by a new 256-hp 3.6-liter 6-cylinder Boxer engine matched to a 5-speed electronic automatic transmission. Compared to the 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine it replaces, the more powerful 3.6 has the same external size and uses regular-grade fuel, rather than premium as the 3.0 required.

Bold Design Statement in the Midsize Arena

The 2010 Legacy, while rivaling midsize segment leaders in roominess, stands apart with a bold, high-tech look. The Subaru badge centers the new grille, which features a squared off lower edge. Character lines arc from the grille and form power bulges on the hood and taper off into the A-pillar. The sleek silhouette incorporates a larger greenhouse, and a shorter deck gives the vehicle a sporty look. Powerful wheel arches echo the power running through the Symmetrical AWD System. A range of new wheel cover- and alloy-wheel designs also debut on the 2010 Legacy, with the 2.5GT models featuring 18-in. alloy wheels and low-profile tires. A functional hood scoop directs air to the engine-mounted intercooler.

Besting Midsize Benchmarks

Built on an all-new platform, the 2010 Legacy offers roominess comparable to mainstream midsize sedans, with a focus on usable space and long-distance driving comfort. The wheelbase grows to 108.3-in., a 3.2-in. increase over the previous Legacy. The 2010 Legacy provides nearly four inches of additional rear legroom, which is enhanced by the scalloped back design of the new front seats.

The new Legacy is 3.2-in. higher and 3.6-in. wider than the previous model, yielding gains in head, shoulder and hip room. The 2010 Legacy offers more total passenger room (103 cu. ft.) than many competitors. The new-generation Legacy also offers one of the largest trunks (14.7 cu. ft.) in the segment – a significant achievement considering that the car’s design requires packaging a rear differential and drive axles. Overall vehicle length is up by just 1.4-in. (now 186.4 in.), but overhang dimensions are reduced compared with the previous model.

The 2010 Legacy interior is not only more spacious than before, but takes another step up in refinement from an already-praised design in the previous model. The sporty four-dial instrument panel is augmented in all Legacy models by a multi-information display with trip computer located in the center of the dashboard. Richer looking appointments and details abound, including a sporty 3-spoke steering wheel (leather-wrapped in all but the base 2.5i). A new electronic parking brake – with an electronic Hill Holder System — eliminates the traditional parking brake handle, freeing up space in the center console.

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 Subarus are known for. Legacy 2.5i and 2.5i Premium models feature 16-in. wheels (alloy on Premium); the 2.5GT models are exclusively equipped with 18-in. alloy wheels with 225/45R18 tires. The 6-cylinder Legacy 3.6R models have 17-in. alloy wheels with 225/50R17 tires.

All Legacy models for 2010 are equipped as standard with Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), which combines stability and traction control capability. All 2010 Legacy models are equipped with a standard 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). Additionally, Subaru’s Brake Assist safety system is available on all models.

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 new cradle uses high-strength steel and is designed to also enhance 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 enhancement of body rigidity and the new suspension design help to reduce levels of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). Increased wheel travel and optimized suspension geometry also contribute to improved ride comfort.

New Level of Comfort and Convenience in All Models

Standard comfort and available amenities are increased across the Legacy line for 2010. The base 2.5i model, for example, features standard steering wheel audio and cruise control buttons, a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat, new electronic parking brake, automatic lights-on function, ambient overhead console lighting and an available iPod jack. The all-new electronic Hill Holder System holds the vehicle in place until the driver applies the throttle to pull away from a stop. Previous versions of this system only held the car for a few seconds.

Legacy Premium models add more amenities, including an 8-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support adjustment and driver’s auto up/down window. The Premium models also offer additional comfort and convenience options, including a harman-kardon® audio system, a power moonroof, and the All-Weather Package that adds heated front seats and mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer.

The Legacy Limited models feature leather upholstery, dual zone automatic climate control and a 4-way power front passenger seat. The Limited models exclusively offer an available voice-activated GPS navigation system with an 8-in. LCD display and rear-view backup camera, hands-free Bluetooth® connectivity and streaming Bluetooth audio.

Revised 2.5-liter Boxer Engine with New 6-Speed Manual or CVT

The 2010 Legacy 2.5i models are powered by a revised 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine, teamed for the first time to a new 6-speed manual transmission or the available new Lineartronic™ CVT. The CVT is standard in the Legacy 2.5i Limited, where it is also equipped with a manual mode and steering wheel paddle shifters.

The 2.5-liter engine, which is available as PZEV-certified, is modified for 2010 to improve performance, responsiveness, and economy. The engine delivers 170 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm and 170 lb.-ft. of peak torque @ 4,000 rpm. The i-Active Valve Lift System (AVLS) ensures a broad torque curve and smooth response at all engine speeds, while also helping to improve fuel efficiency. All Legacy models for 2010 feature a larger fuel tank, now 18.5 gallons vs. 16.9 gallons in the previous model, to extend driving range.

Whether teamed to the new 6-speed manual transmission or the Lineartronic™ CVT, the roomier 2010 Legacy provides quicker acceleration and lower fuel consumption than comparable 2009 Legacy models. Either transmission helps make the Legacy more responsive in everyday driving.

Subaru has adopted a chain-type CVT, the world’s first longitudinally mounted CVT system for AWD production vehicles. It employs smaller pulley cores, which helps make the unit compact and can help provide better fuel efficiency compared to belt-type CVTs. 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, helping 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. The selectable manual mode of the Lineartronic™ CVT uses six pre-selected steps to allow the driver to “shift” manually using steering wheel paddle controls.

Legacy 2.5GT: 265 Turbocharged Horses

The new-generation Legacy 2.5GT models get a significant boost in performance from the revised 2.5-liter turbocharged / intercooled engine (based on the Impreza WRX engine) teamed to a new standard 6-speed manual transmission. Notably, the new 6-speed is more than 50 pounds lighter than the 6-speed unit used in the 2009 Legacy 2.5GT spec.B.

A larger turbocharger increases boost, and a new exhaust uses a low-density catalyst for reduced backpressure. To improve weight distribution and help lower the center of gravity, the turbocharger is now mounted below the engine. With 265 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of peak torque (compared to 243 hp and 241 lb.-ft. in the previous 2.5GT models), the 2010 Legacy 2.5GT models can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in under six seconds.

3.6-liter H6 Engine: Premium Performance with Regular-Grade Fuel

The new 3.6-liter H6 engine replaces the previous 3.0-liter 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 center of gravity. The 3.6 Boxer engine produces 256 horsepower and 247 lb.-ft. of peak torque, compared to 245 hp and 215 lb.-ft. of torque for the previous 3.0-liter engine. Active Valve Control System (AVCS) 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 engine offer greater performance than the previous 3.0-liter unit, but does so using regular-grade fuel compared to premium required in the 3.0. The specially tuned five-speed automatic transmission, combined with the greater torque output of the new engine, helps make the Legacy 3.6R models more responsive when driving in hilly areas by significantly reducing “hunting” between gears.

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive A Key To Brand Identity

Subaru offers three different Symmetrical 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 locking center differential to distribute power 50/50 front to rear. Slippage at either set of wheels will send more power to the opposite set.

Legacy 2.5i models equipped with the Lineartronic™ CVT use an electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch to actively control power distribution in response to driving conditions.

Legacy 3.6R models exclusively feature advanced Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) All-Wheel Drive with a 5-speed automatic transmission. A planetary center differential works with an electronically controlled continuously variable hydraulic transfer clutch to manage power distribution. 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.

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 further raise the safety quotient. Subaru’s 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 2010 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 as standard equipment front seat side impact air bags and side curtain air bags that offer additional head protection for front and rear occupants. Intelligent 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 in the 2010 Legacy, high-strength front seat frames provide enhanced protection against whiplash injury in a rear-end collision. With the entire seat optimized for a rear-end collision, Subaru replaced the previous active front head restraints with a more comfortable design.

Subaru unveiled its progressive-looking Legacy Concept at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit and now it is expected to use the New York International Auto Show to showcase the production model.

The rumor of the N.Y. debut started after a Subaru dealer apparently leaked information on the production model Legacy on the North American Subaru Imprezza Owners Club (NASIOC) forum. The information was subsequently removed, however, at the behest of Subaru of America.

According to a post on AutoBlog, the new 2010 Legacy will be available with a 3.6-liter H6 as well as an upgraded 2.5-liter turbo powerplant with a more powerful turbo. Transmission choices will be either a six-speed manual or a CVT box.

The report also states that the new Legacy will forgo the current rear multi-link setup for a double-wishbone setup.

Inside the GT Premium and Limited trims will get an electric parking rake, an iPod interface and Bluetooth connectivity. Outside, 18-inch wheels will be offered as well as six new colors.

Cargo capacity will be significantly improved as well, due in part to a 3.6-inch wider body. This increase in width will also significantly improve rear seat room – with rear seat leg room gaining four inches as well.

We’ll bring you live updates from the New York Auto Show starting April 8th, including plenty of pictures to see if the 2010 Legacy looks anything like the concept.

GALLERY: Subaru Legacy Concept

[Source: NASIOC via AutoBlog]