Positioning:
The 2010 Subaru Legacy represented Subaru's commitment to offering a competent and safe mid-size sedan and wagon with its signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Positioned as a practical, reliable, and driver-centric alternative to more mainstream Japanese and American sedans, it appealed to buyers seeking all-weather capability and a refined driving experience.
Competitors:
Competed directly with vehicles such as the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda6, Ford Fusion, and Chevrolet Malibu. Its AWD system was a key differentiator, especially in markets with inclement weather.
Features:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines, refined interior, comfortable ride, strong safety ratings, available turbocharged performance (GT models).
Systems:
Engine mechanical, Engine electrical, Fuel system, Exhaust system, Transmission (manual & automatic), Drivetrain (AWD system), Brakes (ABS, EBD, Brake Assist), Suspension (front & rear), Steering, Climate control (HVAC), Electrical system (wiring diagrams, fuses, relays), Body & chassis, Interior trim, Safety systems (airbags, seatbelts), Diagnostic procedures, Troubleshooting, Specifications
Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, Routine inspections, Component removal and installation, Engine overhaul, Transmission repair, Brake caliper service, Suspension component replacement, Steering rack service, HVAC system diagnosis and repair, Electrical troubleshooting and repair, Body panel alignment, Airbag system servicing, Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic oil changes and filter replacements to advanced engine diagnostics, transmission rebuilds, and complete electrical system troubleshooting. Includes detailed torque specifications, diagnostic flowcharts, and exploded views.
Engine 2.5I:
2.5-liter naturally aspirated DOHC Boxer-4
Engine 2.5Gt:
2.5-liter turbocharged DOHC Boxer-4
Engine 3.6R:
3.6-liter naturally aspirated DOHC Boxer-6
Horsepower 2.5I:
170 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque 2.5I:
170 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Horsepower 2.5Gt:
265 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 2.5Gt:
247 lb-ft @ 2000-5200 rpm
Horsepower 3.6R:
256 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 3.6R:
247 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Fuel Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multiport Fuel Injection (SMPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded (2.5i, 3.6R), 91 Octane Unleaded Premium (2.5GT)
Transmission Standard 2.5I:
5-speed Manual (FWD or AWD)
Transmission Standard 2.5Gt:
6-speed Manual (AWD)
Transmission Optional 2.5I:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) (AWD)
Transmission Optional 3.6R:
5-speed Automatic (AWD)
AWD System Type:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with viscous coupling center differential for manual transmissions, active torque split AWD for automatic transmissions.
Cvt Features:
Includes SI-DRIVE (Subaru Intelligent Drive) with 3 modes (Intelligent, Sport, Sport Sharp) for driver-selectable engine and transmission mapping.
Length:
187.4 inches (Sedan), 190.7 inches (Wagon)
Height:
59.3 inches (Sedan), 59.1 inches (Wagon)
Curb Weight Min:
3,219 lbs (2.5i AWD Manual Sedan)
Curb Weight Max:
3,622 lbs (3.6R AWD Automatic Sedan)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
5 Stars
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes
Active Safety:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA)
Passive Safety:
Front dual-stage airbags, Front side-impact airbags, Side curtain airbags (front and rear), Active front head restraints, Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, LATCH system for child seats.
Infotainment System:
Standard AM/FM/CD stereo with auxiliary input. Optional premium audio systems with SiriusXM Satellite Radio. Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming available on higher trims or as an accessory.
Driver Assistance Features:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system is standard, providing stability and traction management. ABS, EBD, and Brake Assist are also standard.
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary audio input jack. Optional Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (under severe conditions) / Every 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal conditions) with synthetic oil.
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 105,000 miles, then every 30,000 miles thereafter.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.5I:
105,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement 2.5Gt/3.6R:
60,000 miles (Iridium)
Engine Oil Type 2.5L:
SAE 0W-20 (API SN or higher)
Engine Oil Type 3.6L:
SAE 5W-30 (API SN or higher)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., Subaru Extra-S or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Cvt:
Subaru CVTF (Continuously Variable Fluid) (e.g., Subaru CVT Fluid K0515-YA000)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF HP (High Performance) (e.g., K0516-LH000)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent (Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Head Gasket Risk:
While Subaru has improved head gasket designs, early symptoms of failure (coolant loss, white smoke, overheating) are always a concern and should be addressed immediately. The 2010 models generally have more robust head gaskets than earlier generations, but it's still a potential area for inspection.
Cvt Issues:
Some early CVT models experienced juddering or hesitation. Regular fluid changes are critical for CVT longevity.
Turbocharger Maintenance 2.5Gt:
Turbocharged models require diligent maintenance, including regular oil changes with quality oil, to ensure turbocharger longevity. Intercooler hoses can degrade over time.
Heritage:
Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long-standing reputation for building reliable vehicles with a focus on engineering prowess, particularly its all-wheel-drive systems and horizontally opposed engines.
Fourth Generation Launch:
The 2010 Subaru Legacy marked the introduction of the fifth generation (BM/BR), which was a significant redesign. It grew in size, adopted a more sophisticated exterior and interior design, and retained its core Subaru attributes.
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan
