One of our favorite brands made the biggest splash at the 2019 Chicago Auto Show.
We know Subaru for our love of the Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek. Some of us may own Imprezas and even WRXs and BRZs. But, how many of us can say that own – and love – our Legacy?
That might change very soon, as the 2020 Subaru Legacy was unveiled on the floor of McCormick Place. This may become your new favorite Subaru.
For starters, the 2020 Legacy would be built on the company’s Global Platform. This new architecture has been the footprint for every new Subaru since the 2017 Impreza. Models on the new platform include the Ascent mid-sized SUV.
It made sense for Subaru to utilize this platform for its mid-sized models, including the 2020 Legacy. It provides better rigidity in structure and lighter weight construction.
A turbocharged engine will return to the Legacy lineup, with a new 2.4-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine putting out 260 horsepower. This was designed to replace the 3.6-liter Boxer six-cylinder engine across Subaru’s lineup, as it was made for more efficiency with better performance overall. This engine will appear on the Limited XT and Touring XT.
Non-turbocharged models get a 2.5-liter direct-injected Boxer four-cylinder engine. It will receive a power bump to 182 horsepower compared to the previous generation model. Every Legacy will be equipped with a continuously variable transmission, auto stop/start, and Subaru’s standard all-wheel drive.
Subaru has been on a tear when it comes to interior design and quality. The 2020 Legacy may have one of the most luxurious interiors in the brand’s history. The level of quality and design exceeds even the Ascent Touring model – considered the top of the line for the brand.
Subaru added a 11.6-inch high definition touch screen on their Legacy. This is not a tablet-like screen, but a more integrated, portrait-oriented touchpad that powers all of the Starlink infotainment functions. This screen also offers climate control functions, smartphone integration, vehicle settings, and Near Field Communication.
However, it will be the exterior stylish that will invite both loyal and new customers to check out the 2020 Legacy. The overall look is curvy and upmarket. The rear end is trim and tapered, revealing a 15.1 cubic feet trunk underneath its decklid.
The 2020 Legacy will come in seven trim levels – two with the turbocharged engine as standard. No pricing has been set at this time and we should see this new sedan in the fall.
The only thing missing is a new Outback wagon. No word on when we should see the Legacy’s more popular ruggedized long-roof sister. One guess would be the New York International Auto Show in late March.
If the 2020 Legacy is any indication as to Subaru’s direction for its mid-sized lineup, we may be in for a treat. It is more sophisticated than ever in many ways. It may become our favorite Subaru for those of us who still believe in sedans.