The refreshed and updated 2018 Legacy will make its world debut at the 2017 Chicago Auto Show.
2018 Subaru Legacy
The sixth-generation Legacy made its world debut at the 2014 Chicago Auto Show. Next week, Subaru will use that same venue to introduce the refreshed 2018 version of its midsize sedan.
Exterior
Outside, both the front and rear fascias have been updated. Up front, the grille is both wider and lower and features what Subaru calls a "wing element." The headlights have also been redesigned and include new "Konoji" LED daytime running lights. The bumper has also been re-styled, while new LED fog lamps are optional.
The exterior mirrors have been re-shaped to reduce wind noise, while new sound-insulating glass for the front windows also result in a quieter cabin.
The changes in back are more subtle with a new tailpipe design integrated into a re-styled lower fascia.
Interior
Inside, Subaru has added more upscale materials. There's a new steering wheel, the center console has been redesigned and a new 8-inch touchscreen is optional. Premium and higher trims get real stitching on the dashboard, seats and door panel trim. In addition to the current black and ivory, buyers will now be offered the choice of a gray interior.
On the infotainment front, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard on all trim levels. A new 6.5-inch touchscreen replaces the 6.2-inch unit, while the premium system now features an 8-inch touchscreen and TomTom navigation (with 3 years of free updates). The standard system now includes a myriad selection of new apps including Magellan navigation, eBird (local bird sightings), Best Parking (locates and compares parking rates), Yelp, Glympse (real-time location sharing), RightTrack (monitors driving habits – recommends improvements), Quick Guide (digital vehicle reference guide), and eventseeker (information on local events).
The new system also features over the air (OTA) updates using wi-fi.
Engines and drivetrain
The two current engines – a 2.5-liter Boxer-4 and 3.6-liter Boxer-6 – carry over from the 2017 model. On 2.5-liter models, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) has been upgraded with a new, quieter, ultra-short-pitch chain. That, along with adjustments to engine timing, has enabled Subaru to reduce powertrain noise under acceleration.
Safety
A new optional safety system will be offered, called reverse automatic braking (RAB). It can detect objects in the vehicle's path (with an audible warning) and show their position and distance on the center display screen. The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) has also been upgraded and now detects pressure changes at each tire. In addition, all trims will now come standard with a rear view camera with dynamic guidelines (guidelines that move in sync with the steering wheel when backing up) for more accuracy.
Finally, automatic locking doors and welcome lighting (cabin and exterior lights come on as the driver approaches or leaves the vehicle) are both standard for 2018.
2018 Subaru Legacy prices and availability
The 2018 Legacy will be unveiled February 9th during media days at the 2017 Chicago Auto Show and will reach Subaru dealers this summer. Pricing will be released closer to its on-sale date.