[blu_]

Its just there for ease of daily driving. Most new engines make peak torque very early and sustain it for most of rev range. They are trying to create an engine that mimics a large displacement sedan/wagon's driving experience but with better fuel economy. I would also assume it helps with highway gearing on most cars. CVT's are a trainwreck to drive imo though, so I dont even want to think about how that would be affected on this car.

Remember its a Legacy, not a sports car.