2000cc 
Alloy Wheels
A LASTING LEGACY
Subaru Legacy (2003-To Date)
Introduction
History of the Legacy
Landing in dealer showrooms in late 2003 and early 2004, this version of the Legacy majored on improved build quality and a conscious drive upmarket. It was no longer quite so ludicrous to advise somebody who was looking at an Audi A4 or a BMW 3 Series to take a look at a Subaru instead. Three engines were offered from launch, a 135bhp 2.0-litre, a 162bhp 2.5-litre and a 245bhp six-cylinder 3.0-litre. All of these power plants are horizontally opposed ‘boxer’ units in true Subaru tradition but overall sales were hampered – also in true Subaru tradition – by the lack of a diesel option.
The Spec-B derivative arrived in 2004 to add a sportier dimension to the range. It matched a manual gearbox to the 3.0-litre engine for the first time and featured bigger alloy wheels with uprated dampers. In 2005, this Spec-B flagship replaced the standard 3.0-litre model and a 163bhp 2.0-litre R variant was introduced that did away with the 2.0 and 2.5-litre models. The standard 2.5 and 3.0-litre powerplants continued only in the more 4x4-orientated Outback variants.
The 2007 model year saw all models receive a revised grille with a chrome ‘wing motif’ and swage lines running from the top edge of the headlamps into the wings. The 3.0-litre models were tweaked for low end torque and received the SI-Drive system that gives the option of three throttle response settings for greater economy or sharper responses. Measures were also taken to stiffen up the body and improve ride quality at the same time while the interior received a redesigned fascia and centre console.
Why should I buy a Legacy?
The Legacy majors on simple, cohesive styling but it works well. The headlamps with their budging lower edge are probably the main defining feature and overall, the stance is purposeful yet understated. The interior really is very good, and especially so since that combination of words would have been virtually unheard of in a pre-Legacy Subaru roadtest. Higher quality materials were brought in and fitted together with far more conviction than in Subaru models past. The plastics are precisely colour matched for a unified look and there’s a classy, high-grade feel throughout. There’s a decent amount of rear legroom and a sizable boot that’s refreshingly easy to access.
How much could I expect to pay?
What should I look out for?
Corrosion is notable by its absence, as are electronic gremlins. Japanese reliability is second to none and the Legacy is typical. Do check the driveshaft 'boots' for wear on the more powerful cars - cornering on full lock will have them making awful noises if damaged.
Are parts expensive?
What is a Legacy like to drive?
The 2.5-litre cars produce 162bhp which is largely why this engine was discontinued upon the arrival of the 163bhp 2.0-litre. If you can find one of the early models, it will hit 60mph in 9.2s and return around 34mpg. The 2.5-litre continued beyond its demise in the standard Legacy, being offered in the Outback estate model with its off-road augmentations.
That leaves us with the range-topping 3.0-litre flat-six unit. Again, this is an engine that the keen driver will absolutely love until the time comes to refuel. The sprint to 60mph can be dispatched in a mere 7.9 seconds with this 242bhp lump snarling defiantly all the way. Top speed is 147mph and if you regularly try to replicate those figures, your fuel economy will be markedly less than the 29mpg average. The 3.0-litre Spec B is quicker still thanks in part to its six-speed manual gearbox, 0-60mph takes 6.5s and there’s a top speed of 151mph. Fuel economy, however, will be around 23mpg.
The driving experience is the thing that will attract buyers in the Legacy’s direction and Subaru have take all kinds of steps to ensure it’s up to scratch. ‘Constant Pulsation’ exhausts feature on all models aiding power and economy and contributing to that sweet, burbling boxer engine note. Weight was pared by around 55kg from the previous generation Legacy through the use of aluminium parts and high-tensile steel panels, while body rigidity was up 15%. The chassis underwent extensive tinkering, to create better front end grip and a sharper turn-in with the braking system also being made more effective.
