2010 Subaru Legacy at 2009 New York Auto Show

• Competes with: Nissan Altima, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Toyota Camry
• Looks like: Subaru is borrowing styling from Infiniti and Lexus
• Drivetrain: 175-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder with six-speed manual or CVT; 265-hp, turbo four-cylinder with six-speed manual; or 256-hp, 3.6-liter six-cylinder with five-speed automatic
• Hits dealerships: Late summer 2009

While we’re not sold on the looks of the completely redesigned 2010 Subaru Legacy, the much-needed increase in interior room is welcome. The car rides on an entirely new platform with a new interior design.

Overall interior volume has increased 10 cubic feet to 103 cubic feet, which is on par with the rest of the class, between the Accord’s 106 and the Camry’s 101. The trunk’s 14.7 cubic feet is also improved, besting the Accord’s 14 cubic feet and just shy of the Camry’s 15 cubic feet. Rear legroom is nearly 4 inches greater than before, which also puts it on par with the competition, once again between the Accord and Camry.

Engine choices are similar to the current lineup, with a base four-cylinder now teamed with a continuously variable automatic transmission instead of a four-speed auto. The turbocharged 2.5GT gets a few more horses and is teamed with a six-speed manual only. If you want more power and an automatic, you can opt for the six-cylinder 3.6R.

The interior changes are significant, with an all-new center console, dashboard, instrument cluster and steering wheel. Standard on the 2010 2.5i are steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, cruise control, a 60/40-split folding rear seat, automatic headlights, ambient lighting and an electronic parking brake. Stability control and all-wheel drive are also standard on all 2010 models.

Premium models add an eight-way power driver’s seat, Harman Kardon stereo system, power moonroof, heated seats and windshield-wiper deicer.

Limited models add leather, dual-zone climate control and a four-way power passenger seat. This is the only trim level where you can add an optional GPS system with Bluetooth and a rearview camera.

More photos are below, and they’re sure to stir debate.