2009 Subaru Legacy

Base MSRP $21,095

The Legacy covers a lot of ground -- literally and figuratively. The inexpensive base models, starting below $21,000, offer impressive handling and a fun driving experience disguised as a family-friendly sedan. The upper levels of trim emphasize performance, especially in the 3.0 R and 3.0 R Limited editions, which trade in the standard 2.5L 4-cylinder engine for a 3.0L flat-six. The 2.5GT Spec.B trim steps further toward performance, with a 2.5L 4-cylinder mated to a 6-speed manual -- for about $35,000. Fuel economy is reasonable, with the 3.0L 6-cylinder getting 17 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and the 4-cylinder, 5-speed manual achieving 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway.