Having made its debut at the 2017 Chicago Auto Show, the 2018 Subaru Legacy near Mobile, AL has received a significant number of updates that keep it near the top of the midsize family sedan class. It’s offered as the 2.5i in base, Premium, Sport, and Limited trims, and the higher-powered 3.6R is only available in the Limited trim. Here, buyers can learn what the 2018 Legacy has to offer.
New for This Year
The Subaru Legacy line has received a slight refresh on the inside and out. All models now have standard smartphone connectivity, along with a better suspension for a quieter, smoother ride. Limited trims now have responsive HID lights, and other notable changes include new interior color options, a better multimedia system, and an updated HVAC control set.
The Exterior
Upon closer inspection, discriminating buyers can spot some of the minor styling tweaks that brought the Subaru Legacy into the new year. At the front, the grille, bumper, and headlamps are new, while the rear bumper, exhaust outlet, and taillights have been revised as well. The automaker says that newly redesigned wheels are on the way, along with reshaped side mirrors, welcome lighting, and LED turn signals on higher trim levels.
The Interior
Subaru says that it’s taken a few steps to dampen interior noise in the 2018 Legacy, and the cabin has benefited from better materials, improved accents and trim, upscale touches, a reworked center console, and an all-new steering wheel. Other upgrades include a better AC system, auto locking doors, and a new clock. Some Legacy versions also provide dual USB ports in the back.
Power and Performance
While the engine choices for the 2018 Legacy remain unchanged, there have been quite a few changes to the vehicle’s steering, transmission, brakes, and suspension. The 2.5i has a 2.5L, four-cylinder engine that puts out 175hp and 174 lb. ft. of torque. With a step up to the 3.6R, drivers get a 3.6L V6 that puts out 256hp and 247 lb. ft. of torque. Both of these engine choices are mated to a CVT and standard AWD system that includes torque vectoring capabilities.
The CVT (constantly variable transmission) includes a manual shift mode with paddle shifters, and this year’s model offers quicker responses to driver input, as well as seamless acceleration. A hill start assist system comes as standard equipment, as does Subaru’s hill holder system. The Legacy’s suspension reduces body roll while offering a more compliant ride. The automaker says that they’ve revised the electronic steering for a better response, and that they’ve made the brake pedal increasingly firm with more direct engagement. These changes may seem minor, but they have greatly improved the driving dynamics of the 2018 Subaru Legacy near Mobile, AL.
Safety Features
Subaru has a long-standing reputation for safety, and the 2018 Legacy continues that trend. For this year, the Legacy has gained several safety improvements that are worth mentioning. All models now come with guide lines on the backup camera, a TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system), and better LATCH anchors that make it simple to install child safety seats. Available safety features include rear auto emergency braking, responsive LED headlamps, and auto high beams that are controlled by the EyeSight camera. Subaru has also upgraded the vehicle’s blind spot and rear cross traffic monitoring systems for 2018.
Tech
The newest version of Subaru’s StarLink infotainment system makes its debut in this year’s Legacy model. The system boasts a faster startup and response time, smartphone integration technology for Android and Apple devices, better voice recognition, and the capability to update the system over a Wi-Fi connection. The StarLink system’s standard version comes with a 6.5” display, while the upgraded version found on higher trim levels comes with an 8” screen, a TomTom navigation system, and a longer list of Starlink-compatible apps such as Best Parking, Glympse, and Yelp. There’s an optional Magellan navigation app to consider, as well as Right Track driver improvement tips and the eBird birdwatching app.
Test Drive
Most 2018 Subaru Legacys come with the 2.5L four-cylinder, which offers a smooth experience and great fuel efficiency ratings. Those who step up to the V6 will get more power, albeit at the expense of fuel economy. The Legacy feels surprisingly composed in the corners, and the comfortable driver’s seat is a good place to be. Passenger and rear seating is roomy for the class, and visibility is great in all directions.
The 2018 Subaru Legacy near Mobile, LA combines all the right features into a safe, practical, and efficient package. Call us at (888) 486-3576 to find out more, or stop by to take one for a test drive.
