Search Car Reviews



See all makes

Subaru Legacy

Subaru Legacy 2.0R

Why produce one facelifted model when you can do two? Not con- tent with overhauling its Forester, Subaru has found time to tweak the Legacy line-up, too.

By Chris Thorp

July 2005

Why produce one facelifted model when you can do two? Not con- tent with overhauling its Forester, Subaru has found time to tweak the Legacy line-up, too.

A new base model, the 2.0R, is top of the bill, and it is just arrived in Europe with Auto Express first to drive it. The Legacy is powered by a 2.0-litre flat-four engine, which replaces the old 2.5 unit and feeds 163bhp to all the wheels.

Unlike the facelifted Forester, the base Legacy rarely feels underpowered, with its five-speed manual gearbox giving slick, precise changes. A 0-60mph time of 9.2 seconds is nothing special, but in everyday conditions the engine is strong and refined. A new exhaust system helps to make the Legacy quieter, while also improving performance.

Once again, though, running costs are a drawback. Economy is 32.4mpg, but emissions of 207g/km are higher than those from the outgoing 2.0 and 2.5-litre units. Yet at ΂£16,995, this attractive premium saloon will be within reach of Ford Focus hatch buyers.

The 2.0R, available from next month, has climate and cruise control, plus attractive 17-inch alloy wheels. Revised rear lights further enhance the look, ensuring that this is one of Subaru's best-value four-doors ever. The Forester seems overpriced in comparison.

Tell us about your car in our Driver Power survey.

What Next

For more breaking car news and reviews, subscribe to Auto Express magazine. We'll give you 6 issues for £1 and a free gift!

< Previous   Next >

Sponsored Results

0 Comment

Be the first to comment on this article

You need to register to post comments. Existing members can log in below to comment, otherwise click here to join.



Sponsored Results

More SUBARU LEGACY articles

- Advertisement -

Pictures

Sponsored Results

FIRST OPINION

    Buying a Legacy is a bold decision. While the sleek looks and charismatic motors hold plenty of appeal, the lack of a diesel engine and the prospect of costly servicing could put some buyers off. But the introduction of a new base model will help counter that; the 2.0-litre Legacy is competent and keenly priced. While the 2.0-litre model is the cheapest in the range, it is also the pick of the bunch. If you are bored of top-selling saloon car rivals, this could be for you.
 

AT A GLANCE

    The revised Legacy gets additional safety kit. All variants have active head restraints, plus front, side and curtain airbags. There are alsoanti-lock brakes with EBD.
    Engine: 2.0-litre flat-four, 163bhp
    Price: £16,995
     
    - Advertisement -