Completely overhauled, the new Legacy, unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show 2014, was developed based on a “fusion of design and engineering at a high level”.

The safe choice
Designers of the new Legacy amped up its safety features so that it meets the highest safety standards — it was awarded the 2014 Top Safety Pick (TSP)+, the highest standard of safety by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, a nonprofit organisation supported by auto insurers in the United States.

The new car is clad in very high tensile steel so that front, sides and rear are protected, while keeping the whole vehicle light, making it a dream to drive. Seats and seatbelts were improved to meet maximum safety standards while ensuring the ultimate comfort. Side airbags incorporate an all-new two-chamber system with the chest and waist sections split for maximum protection while curtain airbags have an expanded area to prevent passengers from being ejected from the vehicle during a rollover. In case of front collisions, seat cushion airbags were reconfigured so they reduce tightness in the chest and waist areas to help seatbelts better restrain passengers.

Muscular yet agile
Designers conceptualised a sculpted body with aerodynamic enhancements, giving the Legacy a refreshing contemporary silhouette — solid yet sleek, sporty yet refined. Hawkeyed headlights and a hexagonal grille exude modernity and fearlessness.

The new cabin configuration balances openness with a sense of security, while improving comfort.

The new cabin configuration balances openness with a sense of security, while improving comfort. Shoulder, elbow, waist and rear legroom was increased while space between the driver and the passenger seat was widened, enlarging the centre armrest and console box. Subaru added horizontal highlights to the dashboard to give it a wider feel, thinning the frame of door sashes and revising the cabin roof to achieve maximum roominess. The interior of the new Legacy is available in either black or ivory.

The Legacy was also fitted with Harmon/Kardon speakers with exclusive audio settings for uncompromising acoustics. The head unit features a navigation and audio system with a touch-operated wide and flat centre display. The gauge cluster features a dual-dial layout with a 3D feel and integrated colour LCDs, while gauge metres are illuminated with blue rings for a sportier feel.

A dynamic configuration for the best ride quality
The Legacy’s chassis, steering, suspension and brakes were totally revamped. Rigidity was increased to enhance steering stability, while the suspension operation friction was reduced. The rear support sub-frame was also completely redesigned to improve the dynamic rigidity of the rear suspension. Combined with the optimisation of front struts and rear shock absorbers, there is less vibration in the floor and seats. As for the brakes, Subaru created a quieter and more responsive system.

More power from the mid-range torque
The Legacy stands out among similar sedans in its class because it offers a high mid-range torque. The car feels lighter and drivers have better control and more power — a guaranteed smoother ride. The position of the tumbler generation valve and shape of the intake port were adjusted to achieve more efficient combustion at all engine speed ranges. Subaru reduced the engine intake sound to produce a pleasant purring tone. The friction within Lineartronic transmission was reduced and a vibration noise reducer added. The new step shift control retains the smooth shift-shock-free acceleration characteristic of the Lineartronic, while increasing power and drivability.

Beyond its intuitive functional attributes, the new model has a unique emotional appeal through its design and performance, inspiring drivers to dream big and imagine a fuller life.

Subaru Surprises

Here is a rundown of the main events over the past couple of months from around the region. From palm challenges to motor shows, it has been a very busy and exciting year for Subaru!

Free Pet Shop

Subaru teams up with National Geographic Channel and animal welfare groups to promote responsible pet ownership in Singapore’s largest dog- adoption event.

Company News

Look no further than the Editor’s Note for a quick rundown of the events and achievements that have made 2014 a great year for Subie enthusiasts!