Subaru previews Legacy Concept ahead of Detroit

[Elmo187]

Source: Motor Authority

Subaru has released a teaser image for a new concept vehicle previewing the next-generation Legacy (Liberty) sedan due late next year. Appropriately named the Legacy Concept, the vehicle will make its world debut next month at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show.

The concept will feature a 3.6L horizontally-opposed six-cylinder engine and the company’s trademark symmetrical AWD system. Key characteristics include the distinctive front face and flared wheel arches.

The unveiling of the concept also leads up to Subaru’s recognition of 20 years of the Legacy sedan, which the company will be celebrating next year. The Legacy series was first introduced into the world in 1989, and since then factories Gunma, Japan, and Indiana, in the United States, have built more than 3.6 million units.

Subaru is renowned for its love-or-loathe approach to designing cars, as seen in the frequent revisions to its Impreza line over the years, but the styling of the next Legacy isn’t expected to be as controversial.

The new car will build upon the lines of the current model but will feature a more prominent grille, sharper and more angular headlights, flared fenders and a more chiseled overall appearance.

[LSixer]

I like the front end of this guy. The driving lights are a novel concept as well. Any other side/rear shots of this?

[Elmo187]

right now its just a teaser, so no, no shots of the rest of the exterior.

[Polish Guy]

the fog lights are cool

[Elmo187]

Source: Motor Authority

Subaru is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its Legacy (Liberty) sedan with the unveiling of the all-new fifth-generation model next week at the New York Auto Show. Subaru is renowned for its love-or-loathe approach to designing cars, as seen in the frequent revisions to its Impreza line over the years, but the styling of the new Legacy is nowhere near as controversial though we’re sure it will leave opinions divided.

The latest 2010 model is the roomiest Legacy yet and like its predecessors the car comes with a choice of horizontally-opposed ‘boxer’ engines and symmetrical AWD. The car also features Subaru’s latest Lineartronic continuously variable transmission, with a special manual model to allow the driver to change gears using steering wheel paddle shifters. A six-speed manual will also be offered for the first time on the full range of Legacy models.

The base Legacy engine is 2.5L unit, which is rated at 170hp (127kW) and 170lb-ft (230Nm) of torque, and this is followed by a 265hp (197kW) and 258lb-ft (350Nm) turbocharged version of the same engine for the Legacy 2.5GT. Filling out the range is the Legacy 3.6R model, which comes with a 256hp (191kW) and 247lb-ft (334Nm) of torque 3.6L engine.

McPherson front suspension and double-wishbone rear suspension are enhanced for increased roll stability, while the front suspension mount points also improve chassis rigidity by tying into the engine cradle. Sixteen-inch wheels are standard on 2.5L models, while premium-grade and 3.6L models step up to 17in wheels, and the 2.5L turbo model goes to 18in standard.

A distinctive wing-shape embellishment on the front grille shows the Subaru brand identity, and the front bumper designs accentuate flat horizontal surfaces. Embellished with solidly-designed headlamps, the front face of the Legacy is intended to be 'bold and powerful'. The cabin's dynamic design and a shorter deck give the vehicle what Subaru calls 'a sporty appeal', while the size and power of the vehicle are expressed in the rear-end design, which is rounded and capacious and framed by the combination lights.

Both front seats are designed for comfort and support, and their stitched fabric builds on the Legacy’s sporty look. A 10-way driver’s seat, with power lumber support adjustment, and 4-way power front passenger seat are available on premium-grade models.

As previously stated, the new 2010 model offers more space than any previous Legacy and measures up to 35mm longer, 90mm wider and 80mm taller than the outgoing car. While its overhang dimensions are shortened by 45mm, its wheelbase is expanded by 80mm, allowing for additional rear legroom.

Subaru is yet to release availability details for the car but more information should be forthcoming following its debut at next week’s New York event.

leave it to Subaru to fuck up such a great car. the front looks like a 70 year old lady had a facelift where she can't stop smiling even though she just found out her husband of 50 years just died, the rear looks WAYYYYYY too much like an E90/E92 3-Series, and the car bores me. its like Subaru is becoming the new Toyota with how many boring cars they've been coming out with lately.