At first glance, you may notice subtle changes to the Subaru Legacy's body styling for 2013: The grilles, front bumpers and headlights have been replaced for a more aggressive look than its otherwise untouched 2010 redesign. Maintaining a comfortable interior as a result of increasing both the wheelbase and body length remains a key legacy to Subaru's newest Legacy. One of the best options for 5 full-size adults looking to take a road trip, the Legacy's responsive steering and improved balance are also a plus for this midsize sedan.

In general, the Legacy was not conceived as a redlining speedster. Past models jumped from 0-60 mph and reached the quarter-mile mark in 6.4 and 15 seconds, respectively. With a boost in the performance column, the 2013 Legacy should log slightly more favorable stats off the line. Still in the range of competitors like the Camry and Accord, the redesigned Legacy asserts respectable numbers on the track. On a more positive note, all trims will hold fast to the high safety standards that have come to be expected from Subaru. Regardless of trim, the restyled 2013 Subaru Legacy still comes standard with a whole array of safety features: dual front and side-curtain airbags, ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist, Vehicle Dynamics Control (an electronic monitoring system designed to monitor and regulate driving conditions to optimize traction and driver control) and a federally mandated tire pressure monitor will all provide continued peace of mind during family outings.

Subaru will also maintain the same three trim lines as before for 2013, but has added some notable improvements. The base 2.5-liter, DOHC boxer 4-cylinder engine boasts a power boost, up to 173 hp, and an improved 174 lb-ft of torque. Standard equipment features a 6-speed manual, which comes standard in the 2.5i and is projected to provide better fuel efficiency than its predecessor at 21 mpg city/28 highway. If you go for the Premium or Limited trim lines, your only option is Subaru's latest 5-speed CVT (continuously variable transmission), which also comes with an improved 24/32 rating and is optional in the base trim. Fortunately, in addition to providing better fuel efficiency, Subaru has been a front-runner in CVT technology and has better than 20 years of experience with this alternative transmission, which limits momentum loss and provides seamless shifting as driving needs dictate. The 3.6-liter flat 6-cylinder (dubbed the 3.6R in both base and Limited trims) comes ready to charge with 256 hp and paddle shifters and is responsible for creating the most luxurious midsize sedan feel for which Subaru is striving.

Turbo fans will have to mourn the passing of Legacy's 2.5GT trims. However, all performance hopes are not lost, as the new versions boast body-roll reduction of up to 40% thanks to suspension, chassis and body updates. The 2013 Legacy also hosts a more rigid body structure and rear subframe, reducing vibrations and improving ride quality. It also might please you to know that the 2013 Subaru Legacy will be available with a new Eyesight driver-assistance system (Limited trims only). This will provide drivers with adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, a lane-drift warning and pre-collision braking—a far more luxurious option for the only midsize sedan to come standard with all-wheel drive and a back seat that can house three grown adults. Pricing is expected to start at just under $21,000.