2013 Subaru Legacy: More Powerful, Smoother Ride, Redesigned Styling, Better Value

MISSISSAUGA, ON--Aug. 2, 2012: Subaru Canada, Inc. (SCI) is pleased to announce the release of the 2013 Subaru Legacy . With more modifications than a typical model year change, the 2013 Subaru Legacy has undergone an extensive facelift with a restyled front end including new headlights, grille and front bumper. The 2013 Subaru Legacy also debuts chassis enhancements, which improve ride quality, as well as new amenities, audio capabilities and the introduction of the brand new EyeSight driver-assist system.

With standard Subaru symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive, the 2013 Legacy remains the most fuel-efficient mid-size all-wheel-drive sedan in North America. At the same time, the Legacy rewards drivers with engaging performance, a high level of driving comfort and outstanding safety performance. For added safety, the 2013 Legacy adds a new Brake Override system, and an airbag deployment signals fuel cutoff.

Under the hood, the 2013 Legacy is powered by the choice of a 3.6-litre H6 or a new double-overhead camshaft (DOHC) 2.5-litre, four-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine for increased performance and fuel efficiency. This new engine produces 173 hp and 174 lb.-ft of torque, as compared to 170 hp and 170 lb.-ft from the outgoing model. More importantly, the new engine produces greater low-end torque across a broad speed range, making it more responsive in everyday driving - and all while consuming less fuel.

Best of all, the 2013 Legacy now offers even greater value with price reductions across all trim levels. The well-equipped 2013 Subaru Legacy 2.5i is now offered at $23, 495 which is $500 less than last year.  In addition to this, the MSRP of all CVT models has been reduced by $400 and the 3.6R Limited receives the greatest reduction, now offered for $1,000 less at its new price of $34,695.

The Most Fuel-Efficient All-Wheel Drive Mid-size Sedan

The 2013 Legacy 2.5i offers a choice between a standard 6-speed manual transmission and the second-generation Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission). The second-generation Lineartronic CVT offers more responsive and quieter operation compared to the transmission it replaces. Models equipped with the CVT also feature a 6-speed manual mode with steering wheel paddle shifters, which allow the driver to control the transmission via six pre-set ratios. Legacy models equipped with the Lineartronic CVT are able to travel 1,100 km per tank, delivering fuel efficiency equivalent to comparable two-wheel-drive sedans.

The 2013 Legacy 3.6R Limited continues to be offered with a 256-hp 3.6-litre 6-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine and 5-speed Electronic Direct Control Automatic Transmission with Manual Mode (5EAT). A downshift blipping feature enhances its sporty feel when using the Legacy 3.6R steering wheel paddle shifters.

Models equipped with the Lineartronic CVT will see fuel efficiency of 6.0 L / 100 km on the highway and 8.4 L / 100 km in the city. Models equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission will see fuel efficiency of 7.0 L / 100 km on the highway and 9.8 L / 100 km in the city.

New EyeSight Driver Assist System

The 2013 Legacy (and Outback) models debut Subaru's new EyeSight driver-assist system, which integrates Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking and Vehicle Lane Departure Warning. Combining safety and convenience features, this new technology - which uses a stereo camera design developed by Subaru to provide a detection angle wider than that of radar-based systems - can detect obstacles in front of the car and limit potential damage in an impact. Unlike other manufacturers who only introduce this system in top-end models, Subaru's plans to incorporate EyeSight in its intermediate, mid-size segment will further enhance an already value-packed offering and reinforce Subaru's commitment to remaining leaders in safety.

At relative speeds under approximately 30 km/h, EyeSight's Pre-Collision Braking system can help avoid a potential collision. The system can detect obstacles in the car's path and, if the driver has not applied the brakes in time, the system can act to slow the vehicle or bring it to a full stop. Pre-Collision Braking is always on in the background to act like a second set of eyes for the driver.  It can also be turned off temporarily for off-road or rough road travel.

At relative speeds above approximately 30 km/h, the system can apply the brakes when an object is detected, and will attempt to brake if the driver takes no evasive action or does not apply the brake. The system, which can recognize programmed objects such as vehicles, motorcyclists and bicyclists, can help mitigate collision damage.

By monitoring traffic lane markers and lines, the Subaru EyeSight system can detect if the car begins to wander outside the intended lane without a turn signal being used, or if the car begins to sway within the travel lane.

Intended for freeway use, EyeSight's Adaptive Cruise Control system can maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, braking and/or accelerating the car as needed to maintain the driver-selected target speed or following distance. Adaptive Cruise Control is operational from 40-145 km/h and can continually brake until the vehicle stops if the system "locks on" to a vehicle ahead. As an added convenience, Adaptive Cruise Control assists the driver in heavy stop-and-go freeway traffic by maintaining distance from the vehicle ahead.

EyeSight will also alert the driver when the vehicle ahead has moved if he or she doesn't react within several seconds.  The technology can also help reduce collision damage by cutting the throttle when it senses an obstacle in front, even though the accelerator pedal continues to be pushed.

Retuned Suspension Enhances Agility and Ride Quality

Numerous enhancements to the body structure, suspension and steering give the Legacy a smoother, quieter ride for 2013, while also delivering improved handling and agility. Greater stiffness at key points of the structure, including the front strut mounts and rear frame rails, helps reduce vibration while also contributing to more responsive handling.

In tandem with the structural enhancements, Subaru has increased the diameter of the front suspension's sway bar and also changed the spring and damper rates and bushing stiffness. As a result, body roll has been reduced by up to 40 percent.  The Legacy driver will experience a more responsive yet quieter vehicle overall.

Increased Interior Comfort and Convenience

All 2013 Legacy models offer new seat fabric, which feels more comfortable. Limited Package models gain a new dark, glossy wood grain trim for a more luxurious appearance.

Updated Audio Technology

The standard audio system in Legacy 2.5i models is upgraded for 2013. New features include voice-activated Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity and audio streaming, iPod control capability and a USB port. Carryovers from the previous model year include an AM/FM stereo with four speakers, single-disc CD player, Radio Data System (RDS) and auxiliary audio input. The Touring Package adds a pair of dash-mounted tweeters.

Top-level Legacy models with the Limited Package exclusively offer a new navigation system that includes all of the features in the harman/kardon audio package plus a touchscreen GPS navigation system with 7.0-inch LCD display, voice-activated controls and navigation, XM Satellite Radio (subscription required), rear-vision camera, and an SD card slot for convenient navigation map updates.

Four Trim Levels

The 2013 Subaru Legacy 2.5i is available in four trim levels - entry, Convenience, Touring and Limited Packages. Legacy 2.5i models with the Convenience Package offer an available PZEV option for greater eco-friendliness, while the Legacy 3.6R Limited will feature the optional brand new EyeSight driver assistance system. The entry 2.5i features a long roster of standard features, among them power-adjustable, foldable, heated body-colour door mirrors, heated front seats, Bluetooth  mobile phone connectivity and streaming audio, a USB charging port, steering wheel cruise control and audio switches, a 60/40-split flat-folding rear seat, electronic parking brake with Hill Holder system and an automatic headlight function. The electronic Hill Holder system, which holds the vehicle in place until the driver applies the throttle to pull away from a stop, now includes a memory function for added convenience.

Legacy models with the Convenience Package add additional amenities: a 10-way power driver's seat including power lumbar support adjustment, 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels, instrument panel storage bin and an ambient light for the overhead console.

Additionally, Legacy models with the Touring Package also include new 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, a power tilting and sliding glass sunroof, windshield wiper de-icer, a 6-speaker system, dual-zone automatic climate control with synchronize button, driver's automatic up/down power windows as well as a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.

Models with the Limited Package  additionally come equipped with Subaru's Lineartronic CVT,  perforated leather upholstery, harman/kardon speakers and amplifier,  electro-luminescent gauges and a 4-way power front passenger seat. A new electro-luminescent instrument cluster in Limited Package models integrates a 3.5-inch colour screen for the multi-information display, which also shows EyeSight functions when the car is so equipped.

Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle Technology

PZEV is a designation awarded to vehicles that meet strict emissions standards set by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Subaru PZEV vehicles in Canada comply with the CARB Super Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle tailpipe standard (SULEV) and virtually eliminate fuel-system evaporative emissions. Compared to an average new vehicle, Subaru PZEV vehicles have significantly cleaner exhaust emissions. In certain cases, vehicles meeting PZEV emission standards are even cleaner than hybrid or alternative fuel vehicles.

Symmetrical Full-time All-Wheel Drive: Three Different Types

Subaru offers three different symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive systems in the 2013 Legacy lineup, each tailored to the engine and type of transmission. In all Legacy models equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, the AWD system uses a viscous-coupling limited-slip centre differential to distribute power 50/50 front to rear.

Legacy 2.5i models equipped with the Lineartronic CVT use Subaru's electronically controlled MPT (Multi-plate Transfer Clutch), which adjusts torque distribution to the front and rear wheels in real time to suit driving conditions. The Multi-plate Transfer Clutch AWD maintains a 60/40 torque split front-to-rear for more predictable handling, and then automatically adjusts to a 50/50 split under strong acceleration or when road conditions warrant.

The Legacy 3.6R Limited Package exclusively features advanced Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) All-Wheel Drive with a 5-speed automatic transmission. A planetary centre differential works with an electronically controlled continuously variable hydraulic transfer clutch to manage power distribution. A 45/55 front/rear torque distribution is continuously variable using a multiple-disc clutch limited-slip differential. Torque distribution is controlled automatically up to an equal 50/50 front and rear to suit road surface conditions for superb stability.

Independent Suspension for Flatter Cornering

All Subaru models feature a strut-type front suspension with a wide track and long wheel travel. The double-wishbone rear suspension, also on all models, handles rough roads and sharp corners with both poise and precision - ensuring maximum tire contact, minimum vibration and significantly improved ride quality. Together, these characteristics deliver flatter cornering as well as a quieter, more comfortable ride over a variety of road surfaces.

Vehicle Dynamics Control

Standard on every Subaru, the Vehicle Dynamics Control system monitors and analyzes if the vehicle is following the driver's intended course via an array of smart sensors. If the vehicle approaches the limits of stability, the AWD torque distribution, engine output and brakes at each wheel adjust automatically to assist in keeping the vehicle on course. A Vehicle Dynamics Control 'off' switch is useful for driving out of slushy roads, deep snow or very loose gravel. The 'off' position deactivates the system's torque-reduction control, while the ABS and traction control remain active.

Subaru's Safety Leadership

The extensive roster of dynamic safety technology in the 2013 Legacy includes standard 4-wheel disc brakes with Subaru's four-wheel, four-channel, four-sensor Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) electronic stability system, as well as symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive and Brake Assist. In emergency braking, drivers usually apply less pedal force than needed even if they react quickly. Brake Assist detects how quickly the driver has pressed the pedal, and if pedal velocity exceeds a certain level, Brake Assist immediately applies system hydraulic pressure up to the ABS limit to help increase braking effectiveness.

Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) is also standard. The EBD system automatically adjusts front/rear brake proportioning based on vehicle load and is more effective than conventional brake proportioning valves.

In all Subaru models, the foundation for outstanding occupant protection is the advanced ring-shaped reinforcement frame unibody structure, with a front-end configuration that disperses collision energy in three directions. This design forms a series of rings around the passenger compartment, providing protection in a variety of collision types. High-tension steel side-impact door beams and impact-absorbing foam materials enhance side-impact safety performance.

Standard passive safety technology includes the Subaru advanced frontal air bag system (SRS), driver and front passenger seat-mounted side-impact air bags, and standard side curtain air bags.

Whiplash-reducing front seats help reduce potential whiplash injury in a rear collision, while a collapsible brake pedal and impact-absorbing driver's footrest help reduce lower leg injury in a frontal collision.

About Subaru Canada, Inc.

Subaru Canada, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of over 85 authorized dealers across Canada. For additional information, please visit www.pr.subaru.ca or www.subaru.ca.

* EyeSight is not designed as a substitute for due care and attention to the road. The system may not react in every situation. There are certain operational limitations, such as when weather conditions obscure the view of the cameras. Finally, even with the advanced technology used, a driver with good vision and who is paying attention will always be the best safety system.