Item: 2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i
Rating: 4.5
Author: Subaru Owner

At a Glance: 2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i

Tested Model: 2.5i Premium with CVT
Ownership Duration: 5+ years
Real-World MPG: 32.8 average (Colorado driving)
Standout Features: Symmetrical AWD, spacious interior, Harman Kardon audio
Overall Rating: 4.5/5 stars

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Why This Owner Chose the Legacy Over Competitors

After test driving four midsize sedans in 2010, our reader selected the Subaru Legacy 2.5i with the then-new Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The decision came down to three key factors:

All-Wheel Drive Capability: Essential for Colorado winters
Surprising Fuel Efficiency: Unusual for AWD vehicles at the time
Spacious Interior: Outperformed segment expectations

Performance and Driving Experience

Subaru CVT performance

The 2010 Legacy's 2.5L 4-cylinder boxer engine delivers 170 horsepower—adequate but not thrilling acceleration. Where this sedan shines is in its balanced driving dynamics:

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Performance Specifications
Category	Rating (1-5)	Notes
Acceleration	★★★☆☆	Adequate for daily driving, not sporty
Handling	★★★★☆	Minimal body roll, confident cornering
Ride Comfort	★★★★☆	Smooth over rough pavement
Road Noise	★★★★★	Exceptionally quiet for class

What Holds Up Remarkably Well

AWD System: Performed flawlessly through multiple Colorado winters
CVT Transmission: Maintained smooth operation with proper maintenance
Interior Space: Still competitive with newer midsize sedans
Audio System: Harman Kardon stereo remains a standout feature

Areas That Show Their Age

Infotainment: Outdated by modern standards
Material Quality: Some interior plastics showing wear
CVT Drone: More noticeable as vehicle ages
Rear Visibility: Thick pillars create blind spots

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Real-World Fuel Economy: Exceeding Expectations

The owner's reported 32.8 mpg average in Colorado driving (with elevation changes) significantly outperforms the EPA's original 23 city/31 highway estimates. This exceptional efficiency stems from:

CVT Optimization: Maintains ideal engine RPM
Aerodynamic Design: 0.28 drag coefficient
Lightweight Engineering: Aluminum hood and suspension components

Winter Performance: Living Up to the Subaru Reputation

True to the owner's prediction, the Legacy's Symmetrical AWD system proved invaluable during Colorado winters. Key winter advantages include:

Balanced Weight Distribution: 58/42 front/rear with boxer engine
Standard All-Season Tires: Adequate for most conditions
Confident Traction: No need for additional winter gear in most scenarios
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Maintenance and Reliability After 5+ Years

The 2010 Legacy has required only routine maintenance:

Regular oil changes (every 6,000 miles)
CVT fluid replacement at 60,000 miles
Brake service at 50,000 miles
No major mechanical issues reported

Feature

2010 Legacy

2023 Average

AWD Standard

Yes

No (usually $2,000 option)

Rear Legroom

37.8 inches

38.2 inches

Cargo Capacity

14.7 cu ft

15.2 cu ft

Base MSRP (adjusted)

$26,500

$31,200

Final Verdict: Still a Worthy Used Car Purchase?

Based on this long-term ownership experience, the 2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i with CVT remains:

An Excellent Value: Typically $8,000-$12,000 on used market

A Reliable Winter Performer: Outshines many newer FWD sedans

Surprisingly Efficient: Beats many contemporary AWD crossovers

Showing Its Age: Lacks modern safety tech and infotainment

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For buyers prioritizing AWD capability and practicality over cutting-edge features, this generation Legacy represents one of the smarter used car choices in its price range.

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