2012 Subaru Legacy: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 13, 2026

The biggest change for the 2012 Subaru Legacy is a new standard stereo on Premium trims with Bluetooth calling and audio streaming, USB/iPod integration, and steering-wheel phone controls. Otherwise, this is a light update with no redesign or mechanical changes.

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About the 2012 Subaru Legacy

5th generation (2010-2014), third model year; light feature-update year before the larger 2013 refresh.

The 2012 Legacy is Subaru’s midsize family sedan for shoppers who want year-round traction without moving to an SUV. Subaru markets it as a sport sedan with surefooted all-wheel drive, confident handling, smooth ride quality, thoughtful technology, and long-term durability. Against front-wheel-drive rivals like the Accord and Camry, the Legacy’s core difference is simple: standard AWD on every trim, paired with a roomy cabin and a safety-first reputation.

The 2012 Legacy is a roomy sedan with standard all-wheel drive, ranging from the practical 2.5i to the 256-hp six-cylinder 3.6R models. The 265-hp 2.5GT is the sport-focused version, with a turbocharged engine and six-speed manual transmission, while Limited trims emphasize comfort with leather, heated front seats, and premium audio.

What changed, by category

Styling

A rear spoiler changes from optional to standard across the lineup. The 2.5i Limited and 3.6R Limited also gain standard fog lights.

Tech

The 2.5i Premium and 3.6R Premium gain a standard stereo with Bluetooth calling and audio streaming, USB/iPod integration, and steering-wheel phone controls. USB ports also become standard on the 2.5i Limited and 3.6R Limited.

2012 Subaru Legacy specs and features by trim

Feature	2012 Subaru Legacy2.5i0 in stock	2012 Subaru Legacy3.6R0 in stock	2012 Subaru Legacy2.5GT0 in stock	2012 Subaru Legacy2.5i Limited1 in stock	2012 Subaru Legacy2.5i Premium1 in stock	2012 Subaru Legacy3.6R Limited0 in stock	2012 Subaru Legacy3.6R Premium0 in stock
Engine	4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter	6-Cyl, 3.6 Liter	4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.5 Liter	4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter	4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter	6-Cyl, 3.6 Liter	6-Cyl, 3.6 Liter
Transmission	Auto, CVT Manual Mode	Auto, 5-Spd Manual Mode	Manual, 6-Spd	Auto, CVT Manual Mode	Auto, CVT Manual Mode	Auto, 5-Spd Manual Mode	Auto, 5-Spd Manual Mode
Drivetrain	AWD	AWD	AWD	AWD	AWD	AWD	AWD
Fuel Type	Gas	Gas	Gas	Gas	Gas	Gas	Gas
MPG City	23 mpg	18 mpg	18 mpg	23 mpg	23 mpg	18 mpg	18 mpg
MPG Highway	31 mpg	25 mpg	25 mpg	31 mpg	31 mpg	25 mpg	25 mpg
Horsepower	170 hp	256 hp	265 hp	170 hp	170 hp	256 hp	256 hp
Torque	170 lb-ft	247 lb-ft	258 lb-ft	170 lb-ft	170 lb-ft	247 lb-ft	247 lb-ft
Max Towing		2700 lb	2700 lb	2700 lb		3000 lb
Trunk/Cargo	14.7 cu-ft	14.7 cu-ft	14.7 cu-ft	14.7 cu-ft	14.7 cu-ft	14.7 cu-ft	14.7 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	37.8 in	37.8 in	37.8 in	37.8 in	37.8 in	37.8 in	37.8 in
Seats	5	5	5	5	5	5	5
Doors	4	4	4	4	4	4	4
Safety & Security
Alarm System
Rear View Camera
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
Heated Mirrors
Power Moonroof
Rear Spoiler
Entertainment & Electronics
Bluetooth
Front DVD Entertainment System
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Satellite Radio
Subwoofer
USB Ports
Comfort & Convenience
Dual Power Front Seats
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Leather Seats
Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
Power Driver Seat
Remote Start

How the 2013 Subaru Legacy compares

The 2013 Subaru Legacy gets a substantial mid-cycle refresh, led by a newer 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine on 2.5i models. Subaru also updated the styling, handling, cabin, driver-assistance technology, and trim lineup.

See the full 2013 changes

Frequently asked questions

Is the 2012 Subaru Legacy a redesigned model?

No. The 2012 Legacy remains part of the fifth generation introduced for 2010 and receives only light equipment updates. Its engines, transmissions, core safety equipment, chassis, and overall styling carry over.

What changed from the 2011 Subaru Legacy to the 2012 model?

The main differences are added standard equipment. Premium trims gain Bluetooth and USB/iPod stereo features, Limited trims gain standard fog lights and USB ports, and a rear spoiler becomes standard across the lineup. The 2.5GT Limited name is shortened to 2.5GT.

Did the 2012 Subaru Legacy get any engine or transmission changes?

No. The 2012 engine lineup carries over with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder, and a 3.6-liter six-cylinder. The transmissions also remain unchanged.

Is the 2012 Subaru Legacy 2.5GT a new trim?

No. The 2012 2.5GT is the renamed continuation of the 2011 2.5GT Limited. It remains the sport-focused Legacy, with a 265-hp turbocharged engine, six-speed manual transmission, larger brakes, and leather upholstery.

Which 2012 Subaru Legacy trims gained standard Bluetooth?

The 2.5i Premium and 3.6R Premium gained standard Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming for 2012. Their updated stereos also added USB/iPod integration and steering-wheel phone controls.