Subaru

Subaru must be the envy of just about every automaker, having been one of the few to see sales increases in recent months, thanks in part to its redesigned Forester.

 

With the all-new 2010 Legacy sedan and Outback wagon, which made their world debut at the New York International Auto Show, the company is poised to keep up the positive momentum. Both models offer more of just about everything.

 

Subaru Outback
The Outback is a beefed-up wagon masquerading as an SUV that has appealed to outdoorsy types since it debuted 15 years ago. It’s one of the original crossovers.

 

Among the most impressive improvements is an interior that’s larger in nearly every dimension wrapped in a body that’s barely larger than before. Rear legroom is up by almost 4 inches, and interior volume is up by 8 cubic feet.

 

A more rigid body structure and revised rear suspension system make the Outback ride smoother and quieter than ever. The stiffer chassis and a new engine cradle also make the Outback safer.

 

The 18.9-gallon fuel tank is larger than before, by 1.6 gallons. Ground clearance has increased to 8.7 inches for better off-road capability.

 

Two engines are available. The choice for drivers focused on fuel economy will be a revised 170-horsepower 4-cylinder with the choice of a manual 6-speed transmission or a continuously variable automatic. A new 256-horsepower 3.6-liter 6-cylinder is available for those who put a premium on acceleration and performance. It’s paired with a 5-speed automatic.

 

As with all Subarus, all-wheel drive is standard.

 

Subaru Legacy
The Legacy is the Outback wagon’s sleeker sedan counterpart, which first launched 20 years ago. It shares most of the Outback’s improvements, including a larger interior, but isn’t designed to be as rugged or off-road capable.

 

It’s a sporty sedan and so offers a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine not available on the Outback. This engine puts out 9 more horses and 11 lb-ft more torque than the larger 6-cylinder engine, which makes it the choice for performance enthusiasts.

 

Both the Legacy and Outback have a new hill-holder system and offer three trim levels with different types and amounts of amenities.