© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Updates for 2018
A few years ago, Subaru unveiled the next-generation Legacy at the Chicago Auto Show, and this year the Windy City seems like the appropriate venue to reveal an updated version of the all-weather sedan. The 2018 Subaru Legacy features revised styling with a number of updates to comfort, safety and infotainment systems.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Freshened Exterior
The exterior changes are somewhat subtle, but the 2018 Legacy gets wider, lower grille openings as well as a new bumper that better integrates with the trademark hexagonal grille, which is also larger than the previous model. Headlights are also redesigned with distinctive daytime running lights; LED fog lights are available.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Wider Appearance
Updates in the rear are designed to give Legacy a wider appearance, and the new tailpipe is better integrated into the rear fascia.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Better Handling
Legacy’s suspension has been retuned to improve agility as well as steering and brake feel. Revamped dampers provide a smoother ride while reducing body roll in turns. The updated Legacy should also be quieter with better-insulated windows in the driver and passenger doors. Reshaped exterior mirrors should reduce wind noise.
© Subaru of America
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
The updates inside are more noticeable and certainly welcome. The 2018 Legacy gets the latest STARLINK infotainment system featuring Bluetooth wireless capability, iPod control and long-awaited smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Two USB power ports are needed additions on the back of the center console — mobile-minded rear-seat passengers will appreciate the update.
© Subaru of America
STARLINK
Two versions of STARLINK will be available — one with a 6.5-inch screen as well as an upgraded version with an 8-inch display that has a more powerful CPU for quicker performance. In addition to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, STARLINK offers integrated features such as Aha and Pandora, along with cloud applications including iHeartRadio and Stitcher, as well as a calendar, music player, news and weather. Additional apps added for the 2018 model year include Magellan navigation, Yelp reviews, Glympse and eBird, which provides information on bird sightings and locations.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
EyeSight Updates
Subaru’s innovative EyeSight driver assist technology continues for the 2018 Legacy, bolstered by some new features such as Reverse Automatic Braking, which helps the driver avoid objects when backing up. Steering Responsive Headlights are also a new addition.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Carryover Engines
Continuing the powertrain choices of the previous model, the 2018 Legacy can be equipped with either a 2.5-liter 175 horsepower 4-cylinder engine or a more powerful 3.6-liter 6-cylinder unit that generates 256 horsepower. Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is standard on all Legacy variants.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
