Okay, now before you get all goofy, these images are photo-illustrations from the Japanese auto rag Best Car via NASIOC, so take that for what it's worth... Actually, I think they're probably pretty close--but know that they are not the real deal.
It turns out that there have been a couple of recent news leaks on the all-new Legacy, one that originated from a dealer (here and here), and one coming from Canada on the north-of-the-border-spec version.
As we all know, Subaru showed a Legacy concept (above) at the Detroit auto show, and the actual production version is reportedly very close to this concept.
Here's what is known (based on the links provided):
> A CVT will replace the 4-speed automatic.
> The H6 is a version of the 3.6L unit found on the Tribeca. As to tuning and power specs, we'll have to wait and see...
> The car is larger than the outgoing model. It's 3.6" wider, the wheelbase is about 3" longer, and the car is a tad taller; all this meaning a larger and more comfortable passenger compartment, especially so for rear-seat folks.
> 30 mpg is being reported, most likely from CVT-equipped models.
Here's what's assumed (by me, mostly)
> One or both models will debut at the NY auto show. As of this posting Subaru has not announced anything to that effect. And, from what I've read, perhaps only one (Legacy most likely) will be announced, with the other (Outback, most likely) to be announced at another time. Now, again, this is not certain, but don't be surprised if it plays out that way--and if so, you read it here first!
> The Legacy GT turbo is to have more power than the current model, and I expect it to be a 6-speed manual-only. Again, I'm getting these vibes from the above links.
> The H6 will likely continue with the 5-speed automatic, again, if the above links are to be believed (which I do).
As per the recently redesigned Impreza and Forester, expect these new cars to appeal to a much wider audience, as they will be more comfortable, roomier and much more family-oriented.
sabastian says:
06:49 AM, 03/12/09
Wow. Subaru never really found its way out of the styling forest, did it?
trackwrex says:
09:19 AM, 03/12/09
Once again, I'm HIGHLY disappointed with their design... Surprise, surprise. I'm thankful I got the last-gen Legacy.
rsholland says:
09:22 AM, 03/12/09
Keep in mind what you see here are not production cars, just illustrations and a concept.
iskch says:
01:27 PM, 03/12/09
A hint of Camry in the front end.
mb289997 says:
03:22 PM, 03/12/09
The third photo (of the copper-colored vehicle) is what the subaru outback will look like. By the way, Edmunds, do u want 2 hire me as your Japanese translator (as you failed 2 point out this fact in your article)?
hondacura4 says:
04:57 PM, 03/12/09
Its a cross between a Chevy Malibu and an Infiniti M35/45 which isnt a bad thing. The one design element that I wish EVERYONE would stop implementing is the Hoffmeister Kink. Im about sick of seeing it.
billybobbovine says:
05:01 PM, 03/12/09
does anyone thing that the profile of the sedan looks a whole lot like a first gen Infiniti G35 sedan?
tsy says:
05:18 PM, 03/12/09
Wow, that's quite a bit larger. It looks heavy too (although I'm sure that's the design). Kinda Audi-ish grille, G35 headlights, and Mercedes S class fenders?
Oh well, at least it's distinct.
rsholland says:
05:24 PM, 03/12/09
Larger, yes. Heavier? Not so sure. The rumor is that it weighs about the same as the current model. We'll know in a few weeks I guess...
chadera495 says:
08:32 PM, 03/12/09
hopefully subaru carries through with the six speed on gt models and not only specB. about time subaru brings back the leg wagon. like the design but def looks heavier than current model and nothing like a camry
tfinn09 says:
09:02 PM, 03/12/09
The bottom-most picture reminds me of the Chrysler Sebring. Not good. And a CVT in a Subaru? Just does not seem right. All personal preference though I suppose.
zoomzoomn says:
04:47 AM, 03/13/09
While I am not totally fond of the Mazda 6ish fender flares, I do think that it is a proper evolution in their (preferred) corporate design theme. Lest we forget the debacles with the previous Impreza and the original Tribeca! At least it is not cookie cutter generic like the current Impreza and Tribeca (which I think were knee jerk over-reactions given the previous cars' poor receptions).
Personally, I like the styling. It is clean, well proportioned and immediately identifiable as a Subaru! I think they need to infuse some of this type of styling back into the Impreza and Tribeca.
joefrompa says:
04:57 AM, 03/13/09
I saw this concept in person and it has a MUCH more visually imposing presence than the current generation Legacy....of which I own a 2008 model.
That being said, it's not bad. It's actually fairly well done, albeit in concept form....which means you have to tone down the chrome, glitz, and bodykit a bit.
I pray....PRAY....that Subaru does the following:
1. Current generation WRX engine/turbocharger or similar....that puppy is STI territory bone stock.
2. Current gen. or similar Spec.B bilstein struts standard. The damping on the legacy was always sub-par.
3. 6-speed transmission standard in the GT model.
If they do that, and the interior is well executed and the exterior is similar to the concept....well, I might need 2 Subarus in the fold.
Regarding weight: Subaru has truly, truly impressed me in the area of weight. Their current small SUV Forester is still around 3200-3300 pounds. The AWD Legacy GT 5-speed is ~100 pounds less than the RWD BMW 3-series. The Impreza/WRX is around 3200-3300 pounds, about the same as a VW GTI.
In short, Subaru has held the line on weight so far. Lets see where they go this time.
Joe
rsholland says:
05:14 AM, 03/13/09
Joe, while I don't know for sure, but here's what I expect:
1. They have said more power for the turbo, so I expect 265 hp ('09 WRX), if not more power.
2. It sounds like the 2010 GT is replacing the spec.B, as it comes with a 6-speed and 18" wheels. I suspect it also has a sport suspension.
3. I think the GT will only come with a 6-speed manual. If true this is good, as it will help separate (in the market) the GT from the 5EAT-only 3.6 H6 model.
I think you'll be happy. :)
joefrompa says:
06:58 AM, 03/13/09
All of the above will seperate enough from my current LGT 5-speed to make it potentially worthwhile (the extra room is nice too, as the legacy is currently fairly compact).
The real question will be whether or not it is still engaging to drive.
rsholland says:
08:44 AM, 03/13/09
I think the GT will be; not so sure about the other models. From what I'm hearing they will be better than the (Asian) competition, but yes, the car has gotten a bit softer.
atenza94546 says:
01:29 PM, 03/13/09
I wonder how come Subaru always come up with some model with Manuel Speed only version. Are they profitable with people not buying their car being not interested in Manuel drive. Even Lan EVO has to bring in a Dual Clutch verison to grab market share. Subaru really that big of a auto maker that don't need to expand their market shares??
atenza94546 says:
01:30 PM, 03/13/09
I wonder how come Subaru always come up with some model with Manuel Speed only version. Are they profitable with people not buying their car being not interested in Manuel drive. Even Lan EVO has to bring in a Dual Clutch verison to grab market share. Subaru really that big of a auto maker that don't need to expand their market shares??
atenza94546 says:
01:52 PM, 03/13/09
Follow up above I can understand and I agree on have an STI verison of Legacy bring over the Pacific to N.Amer. for a Niche car. With high performance engine and Manuel drive. The Turbo GT can be a option by for people who wants to buy a Turbo version with Auto. Just like the Impreza WRX.
zoomzoomn says:
04:39 AM, 04/ 2/09
It's becoming too generic! It's a cross between the new Accord (overall profile and roofline), some previous Legacy and a splash of Mazda6 (fenders). And just why have all of the manufacturers decided that bigger is better? I liked the size of vehicles like my Mazda6 and the current Legacy.