Hey guys! Are you in the market for a reliable and spacious ride? Let's dive into the 2012 Subaru Legacy Wagon. This car has been a popular choice for families and adventure-seekers alike, known for its practicality, safety features, and of course, Subaru's signature all-wheel-drive (AWD). In this article, we'll break down everything you need to know about the 2012 Subaru Legacy Wagon, from its performance and features to its reliability and potential drawbacks. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the 2012 Subaru Legacy Wagon

The 2012 Subaru Legacy Wagon is part of the fifth generation of the Legacy lineup. This generation aimed to offer a more refined and comfortable driving experience while maintaining the practicality and reliability that Subaru is known for. The wagon body style, in particular, adds a significant amount of cargo space compared to the sedan version, making it an excellent choice for those who need to haul gear, groceries, or even the occasional piece of furniture. The 2012 model year saw some minor updates and improvements over previous years, further enhancing its appeal.

Key Features and Specs

• Engine Options: The 2012 Legacy Wagon typically comes with two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a more powerful 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine. The 2.5-liter engine provides adequate power for daily driving, while the 3.6-liter engine offers more spirited acceleration.
• Transmission: Transmission choices usually include a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a six-speed manual transmission, depending on the engine and trim level. The CVT is designed to maximize fuel efficiency, while the manual transmission offers a more engaging driving experience.
• All-Wheel Drive: Standard on all Legacy Wagon models, Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions, making it a great choice for those living in areas with snow or rain.
• Cargo Space: The Legacy Wagon boasts a generous amount of cargo space, with around 35 cubic feet behind the rear seats and over 66 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This is more than enough space for most families' needs.
• Safety Features: The 2012 Legacy Wagon comes equipped with a range of safety features, including antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags. Some models may also include advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance and handling, the 2012 Subaru Legacy Wagon offers a balanced driving experience that caters to both daily commutes and longer road trips. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides sufficient power for most driving situations, delivering around 170 horsepower. While it may not be the fastest car on the road, it offers a smooth and responsive acceleration that is perfect for navigating city streets and highways. The available 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine, on the other hand, delivers a more robust 256 horsepower, providing quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving experience for those who want a bit more pep in their step. The handling of the 2012 Legacy Wagon is also noteworthy, thanks to Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. This system distributes power evenly to all four wheels, providing excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions. Whether you're driving on dry pavement, wet roads, or snowy streets, the Legacy Wagon feels confident and planted, giving you peace of mind behind the wheel. The steering is precise and responsive, making it easy to maneuver the car in tight spaces. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road without sacrificing handling. Overall, the 2012 Subaru Legacy Wagon offers a well-rounded driving experience that is both enjoyable and practical.

Engine Options in Detail

• 2.5-liter Four-Cylinder Engine: This engine is the standard option for the 2012 Legacy Wagon. It produces around 170 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. While it may not be the most powerful engine in its class, it offers a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency. It's ideal for drivers who prioritize fuel economy and smooth acceleration over outright speed.
• 3.6-liter Six-Cylinder Engine: For those who want more power, the 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine is a great option. It delivers around 256 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving experience. It's perfect for drivers who want a bit more excitement behind the wheel and don't mind sacrificing some fuel economy.

Transmission Choices

• Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT): The CVT is designed to maximize fuel efficiency by continuously adjusting the gear ratio to keep the engine in its optimal power range. It provides smooth and seamless acceleration, making it ideal for daily driving. However, some drivers may find the CVT's lack of traditional gear shifts to be a bit uninspiring.
• Six-Speed Manual Transmission: For those who prefer a more engaging driving experience, the six-speed manual transmission is a great option. It allows you to take full control of the engine's power and provides a more direct connection to the car. It's perfect for drivers who enjoy the feeling of shifting gears and want a more involved driving experience.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the 2012 Subaru Legacy Wagon, you'll find a cabin designed with practicality and comfort in mind. The interior is spacious and well-laid out, with plenty of room for both passengers and cargo. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making them ideal for long road trips. The materials used throughout the cabin are of decent quality, although some may find them to be a bit basic compared to some of its competitors. The dashboard is simple and functional, with all the essential controls within easy reach. The gauges are clear and easy to read, providing all the necessary information at a glance. The center console offers ample storage space, and the cupholders are conveniently located. One of the standout features of the Legacy Wagon's interior is its cargo space. With the rear seats up, there's plenty of room for groceries, luggage, or other gear. And when you need even more space, the rear seats can be easily folded down to create a large, flat cargo area. This makes the Legacy Wagon an excellent choice for those who need to haul a lot of stuff on a regular basis. Overall, the interior of the 2012 Subaru Legacy Wagon is comfortable, practical, and well-suited for families and those who need a versatile vehicle.

Interior Features

• Spacious Cabin: The 2012 Legacy Wagon offers a spacious cabin with plenty of room for both front and rear passengers. Even taller adults will find the rear seats to be comfortable, with ample legroom and headroom.
• Comfortable Seats: The seats are comfortable and supportive, making them ideal for long drives. They are well-cushioned and provide good lumbar support.
• User-Friendly Controls: The dashboard is simple and functional, with all the essential controls within easy reach. The gauges are clear and easy to read, providing all the necessary information at a glance.
• Ample Storage Space: The center console offers ample storage space, and the cupholders are conveniently located. There are also several storage compartments throughout the cabin for storing smaller items.

Reliability and Maintenance

Subaru has a reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the 2012 Legacy Wagon is no exception. However, like any car, it's essential to be aware of potential issues and maintenance requirements to keep it running smoothly. One of the most common concerns with Subaru vehicles is head gasket issues, particularly in older models. While the 2012 Legacy Wagon is less prone to this problem than some of its predecessors, it's still something to be aware of. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks, is crucial for preventing major problems and extending the life of your Legacy Wagon. It's also essential to keep an eye on the car's cooling system, as overheating can lead to serious engine damage. Another potential issue to watch out for is the CVT transmission, which can be prone to problems if not properly maintained. Regular fluid changes are essential for keeping the CVT running smoothly. Overall, the 2012 Subaru Legacy Wagon is a reliable vehicle, but it's important to stay on top of maintenance and be aware of potential issues to keep it running its best. With proper care, it can provide years of trouble-free service.

Common Issues and Maintenance Tips

• Head Gasket Issues: While less common than in older models, head gasket issues can still occur. Keep an eye on the car's coolant level and watch for signs of overheating. If you notice any problems, have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
• CVT Transmission Problems: The CVT transmission can be prone to problems if not properly maintained. Be sure to change the fluid regularly according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
• Cooling System Issues: Overheating can lead to serious engine damage. Keep an eye on the car's temperature gauge and make sure the cooling system is functioning properly.
• Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks, is crucial for preventing major problems and extending the life of your Legacy Wagon.

Is the 2012 Subaru Legacy Wagon a Good Choice?

So, is the 2012 Subaru Legacy Wagon a good choice? Absolutely! It offers a winning combination of practicality, reliability, and safety. Its spacious interior and generous cargo space make it perfect for families and those who need to haul a lot of gear. The standard all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions, making it a great choice for those living in areas with snow or rain. While it's essential to be aware of potential issues and maintenance requirements, the 2012 Legacy Wagon is a reliable vehicle that can provide years of trouble-free service with proper care. If you're looking for a versatile and dependable wagon, the 2012 Subaru Legacy Wagon is definitely worth considering. It's a car that can handle just about anything you throw at it, whether it's a daily commute, a weekend road trip, or a family adventure. Just remember to do your homework, get a pre-purchase inspection, and stay on top of maintenance to ensure that your Legacy Wagon stays in top condition.