2010 Subaru Legacy scores 31mpg highway in EPA tests

By Nelson Ireson

5 2,693 views Jun 18, 2009

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It's not all bad news, as the Legacy 2.5i with CVT transmission manages 23mpg in the city, 31mpg on the highway and 26mpg combined, putting it solidly in the upper half of its class, especially considering the sedan's size, power, and AWD capability. In fact, Subaru says it's the most efficient 2010 mid-size AWD sedan in the U.S.

"We are thrilled that the all-new 2010 Legacy not only offers more space and a more rewarding drive than the competition, but it also delivers better fuel economy at a very competitive price," said Tim Mahoney, senior vice president and CMO of Subaru America.

But the sportier and more powerful 2.5GT and 3.6R versions offer significantly worse efficiency, ticking over 18mpg in the city and 25mpg on the highway for 21mpg combined. That's only marginally better than some SUVs, and not very competitive in the Legacy's segment.

With real-world figures likely to fall somewhat below that mark for many drivers, it's an even darker picture. The only remaining model, the 2.5i with the six-speed manual transmission, does little to brighten the picture. Rated at 19mpg city, 27mpg highway and 22mpg combined, the manual is blown out of the water by the CVT.

All of that said, however, the 2010 Subaru Legacy is actually more fuel efficient than the preceding generation, so current owners have something to sweeten an upgrade.