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Subaru Legacy

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Subaru Legacy
Subaru
aka {{{aka}}}
Production 1989–2020 (worldwide)
1989–present (North America)
Class Mid-size car
Body Style 4-door sedan
Length {{{Length}}}
Width {{{Width}}}
Height {{{Height}}}
Wheelbase {{{Wheelbase}}}
Weight {{{Weight}}}
Transmission {{{Transmission}}}
Engine {{{Engine}}}
Power {{{Power}}}
Similar {{{Similar}}}
Designer {{{Designer}}}


The Subaru Legacy is a mid-size sedan that was introduced by Subaru in February 1989 as a larger, more upscale companion to the Subaru Leone/Loyale. It came with a 2.0 L engine and was available with all wheel drive, which later became standard worldwide. In Australia, where it is sold as the Subaru Liberty (due to Australia's Legacy Clubs rejecting use of their name), it was Wheels magazine's Car of the Year for 1994 and again for 1998.

In the Pacific Northwest, the Rocky Mountain region and New England, the Legacy has gained considerable popularity as an icon of the outdoor lifestyle. The Legacy (and the Outback especially) typifies the outdoor lifestyle market in the US; this is an image of Subaru that differs greatly from that which the rest of the world has of it. The rise of the performance-oriented Impreza has done much to change the brand image in recent years, emphasizing performance and safety as well as utility.

On March 14, 2005, Subaru sold its three-millionth Legacy worldwide.

See Autopedia's comprehensive Subaru Legacy Review.


Recent Changes[]

  • On May 20 2009, Subaru unveiled the JDM only Legacy Touring. The AWD wagon is powered by a variety of 2.5 and 3.6 liter boxer engines producing anywhere between 170 to 265 hp. As a family hauler, it will come equipped with a host of electronic toys including radar based cruise control, GPS navigation, keyless entry with push button starting, and automatic windshield wipers. On Oct 2009, Subaru also unveiled the Legacy Tourer 2.0D forthe UK market.[1][2]

JDM

UKDM

  • The Legacy is all new for the 2010 model year. Although it is not set to officially debut until the 2009 New York Auto Show, the new Legacy will feature a new 3.6-liter Boxer 6 engine, styling from the Legacy Concept, more space, and more toys such as Subaru's new Lineartronic CVT. The new car was designed under Osamu Namba.[3]
  • For 2008, the Subaru Legacy Touring Wagon and B4 Sedan get reworked by Subaru's in house performance modification division STI.

Styles and Major Options[]

For 2007, the Subaru Legacy is available in either a sedan or a wagon. In addition, there are four trim levels offered: the 2.5i SE, 2.5i Limited, 2.5 GT Limited, and 2.5 GT spec.B. While the sedan is available in any of these trims, there is no 2.5 GT spec.B version of the wagon. The 2.5i models are powered by a 2.5L 175hp 4-cyl. engine, and while the 2.5i SE is available in a choice between a 5-speed manual transmission and a 4-speed automatic, the 2.5i Limited is only available in a 4-speed automatic/SPORTSHIFT manual transmission. GT trims are powered by a more powerful 2.5L 243hp 4-cyl. engine. As with all Subaru models, the Legacy comes equipped with all wheel drive.

From the 2.5i SE to the 2.5 GT spec.B, each trim level adds more standard features. Some of the standout items on each trim include:

2.5i SE

  • 17" silver alloy wheels
  • Premium cloth seating
  • Carpeted floor trim
  • 6-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system w/MP3 capability
  • Exterior temperature guage and trip computer
  • Power windows, locks and mirrors

2.5i Limited

Adds to or replaces i SE features with:

  • Driver/front passenger heated seats
  • Leather seating, shift knob, and steering wheel
  • Express open/close sunroof
  • Dual zone front air conditioning

2.5 GT Limited

Adds to or replaces i Limited features with:

  • Sports seating
  • Power front seats w/heated driver's side
  • 6-speaker AM/FM/in-dash 6CD changer audio
  • MOMO leather steering wheel
  • Lip wing

2.5 GT spec.B

Adds to or replaces GT Limited features with:

  • Stability control
  • Sport suspension
  • Bilstein shocks
  • 18" silver alloy wheels
  • Navigation system

Pricing[]

Legacy Trims

2.5i SE
Sedan

2.5i Limited
Sedan

2.5 GT Limited
Sedan

2.5 GT spec.B
Sedan

2.5i SE
Wagon

2.5i Limited
Wagon

2.5 GT Limited
Wagon

MSRP

$20,495

$24,095

$28,295

$33,995

$21,495

$25,295

$30,895

Invoice

$19,365

$22,615

$26,438

$31,534

$20,277

$23,708

$28,807

Gas Mileage[]

As seen on the FuelEconomy.gov website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

Trim

2.5i SE
manual

2.5i SE
auto

2.5i Limited
auto

2.5 GT Limited
manual

2.5 GT Limited
auto

2.5 GT spec.B.
manual

MPG

22/29

23/30

23/30

20/27

19/25

19/26

Reliability[]

Safety[]

The 2007 Legacy received high marks on safety tests carried out by the NHTSA. Although no tests for side-impact were performed, the Legacy received a 5-Star rating for front-impact crash tests and a 4-Star rating for rollover. Some of the standard safety features on the Legacy include:

  • Front and rear anti-roll bars
  • Four wheel anti-lock brakes
  • Driver/passenger front impact airbags
  • Driver/passenger seat mounted side impact airbags
  • 1st/2nd row overhead mounted airbags
  • Occupancy sensor8
  • Side impact bars

The fourth generation Subaru Liberty is the first car in its class to receive a 5 star rating from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP). [4]

Photos[]

Legacy (BM)

Legacy Tourer (BR)

Previous generations

Colors[]

Colors for the Legacy will vary by trim, and a full list is viewable at CarsDirect.com. Some of the available combinations include:

Exterior

  • Brilliant Silver Metallic
  • Diamond Gray Metallic
  • Newport Blue Pearl
  • Obsidian Black Pearl
  • Regal Blue Pearl

Interior

  • Charcoal Gray
  • Dark Charcoal
  • Warm Ivory

Main Competitors[]


Hybrid Models[]

There are currently no hybrid models of the Legacy in production.

Unique Attributes[]

The Legacy is the only vehicle that currently offers symmetrical all wheel drive as standard equipment.

Resale Values[]

According to Kelley Blue Book, the Legacy is expected to "hold its value as well as its best-performing competitors."

Criticisms[]

  • "Doesn't offer a lot of sex appeal." - New Car Test Drive
  • "Still not powerful enough" - USA Today
  • "Rear-seat passengers will find knee and toe space to be a bit tight." - Edmunds.com
  • "If you don't live in an area where slick roads are a regular concern, the premium price of all-wheel drive might seem unwarranted." - Kelley Blue Book
  • "Brakes feel mushy." - AutoWeek
  • "Some clunky interior bits, poor seat support." - motioncars.com

Generations[]

Seventh generation (BW/BT; 2020)[]

Series production of the seventh generation Legacy and sixth generation Outback started in July 2019.[6] The first of each model was driven off the SIA production line in Lafayette, Indiana, on July 29.[7

The seventh generation Legacy was not marketed in Japan. Orders for the sixth generation Legacy were accepted through June 22, 2020, and production was discontinued after that.[8]

Design[]

The 2020 model year Legacy was moved to the Subaru Global Platform (SGP), which is torsionally stiffer compared to the previous generation Legacy. Its exterior styling is similar to the previous generation model, but the headlights and the taillights are slightly restyled. The interior now features an 11.6 inch touchscreen on all trims except the base model, which has two 7 inch displays.[9] Those screens are manufactured by Denso and shared with the Toyota Prius Prime.[10][11] There are two separate Denso processors, one drives the infotainment system while the other operates critical vehicle functions.

Notable mechanical changes include an updated base engine, the FB25 now featuring direct injection, and a turbocharged 2.4 liter FA24 flat four engine from the Ascent for higher trim levels which replaces the outgoing 3.6 liter EZ36 flat six engine. 90% of the components in the new FB25 are new compared to its predecessor.

In terms of safety, there is a new optional facial recognition system which uses cameras to warn the driver if the system detects that they are distracted or fatigued.

Sixth generation (BN/BS; 2014)[]

The sixth generation of the Subaru Legacy made its debut at the 2014 Chicago Auto Show, and went into production for the 2015 model year. The Legacy Touring wagon was dropped from the lineup worldwide only having the Outback as its wagon counterpart, especially in its home market in Japan.

Engines and drivetrain[]

A 2.5-liter flat-four FB25 and a 3.6-liter flat-six EZ36D are carried over from the fifth-generation model. Output is slightly increased on the four-cylinder model to 175 PS (129 kW; 173 bhp). The six-cylinder model remains unchanged from the 256 PS (188 kW; 252 bhp) 3.6 litre engine.

The Legacy still offers standard all-wheel drive and horizontally-opposed engine layouts, but discontinues the manual transmission for the US market in favor of the Lineartronic CVT on both engine configurations. The Canadian market offered the manual transmission for the 2.5i and 2.5i Touring trim levels until 2017.

EyeSight[]

EyeSight is Subaru's active safety system. When turned on, it monitors the road through windshield-mounted cameras, and can react to driving conditions and possible collisions, even before the driver can. Models equipped with EyeSight earned the highest possible rating in the IIHS front crash safety test.

The Adaptive Cruise Control function senses the speed and pace of vehicles ahead of the vehicle, and can automatically adjust the cruise control accordingly. Pre-Collision Braking uses the cameras to monitor the activity of the vehicles in front of the vehicle, and alerts the driver visually and audibly. It can also apply the brakes, if the driver hasn't done so already. According to Subaru, EyeSight also monitors the vehicle's space in its lane. It will alert the driver if the vehicle has accidentally swayed too far to either side of the lane.

All of these features are available on the 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Limited, and 3.6R Limited models.

Markets[]

Japanese models[]

This is the last Legacy model sold here. The exterior body panels are now shared internationally, as opposed to the North American version having a slightly different grille and hood for the previous generation.

Southeast Asian models[]

Model available as of December 2, 2014, the sixth generation Subaru Legacy was officially launched in Southeast Asian region. The sixth generation Legacy debuted in the 2015 Manila International Auto Show in the Philippines.

European models[]

There is one engine, a 2.5i and SE and SE Premium trim levels.

South African models[]

The Subaru Legacy is available in South Africa with the 3.6l engine only. There is only one derivative, the 3.6R-S ES Premium.

Australian model[]

Due to the lack of right-hand-drive 7th generation Legacy production in Japan, the sixth generation was the final generation sold in Australia, with 31 sixth generation Liberty's offered up as the "Subaru Liberty Final Edition". These featured various upgrades including STi wheel and body components, unique numbering, upgraded infotainment system, black exterior highlights instead of chrome, and blue and black stitching instead of the usual colours. It was offered only in three colours - Magnetite Grey (15 units), Crystal Black (10 units) and Crystal White (6 units).

Fifth generation (BM/BR; 2009)[]

2010-Subaru-Legacy-10small

The fourth-generation Subaru Legacy was originally unveiled as a concept car[1][2] at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the model, and the production version was introduced at the 2009 New York International Auto Show.[3] Production of the fifth generation started on 29 May 2009.[

A number of design traditions have ended with the fifth generation. The side windows are no longer frameless, ending a Subaru tradition started with the first generation Leone in the early 1970s. On wagons, the "D" pillar is no longer covered in glass. The parking light switch traditionally installed on top of the steering wheel column has also been removed. An engine coolant temperature gauge is no longer offered, replaced by a fuel economy gauge instead that gives estimates in either miles per gallon or liters per 100 kilometers based on regional requirements where the vehicle is sold. When the engine temperature is below normal, an indicator light shines blue and when the engine is overheating, the light turns red. Using the key to unlock the drivers' door after locking the vehicle with the remote will set off the security system; the vehicle must be unlocked with the remote, a tradition going back to the second generation when remote keyless access was introduced.

The manual parking brake handle located between the front passenger seats has been replaced with an electric parking brake switch installed on the dashboard next to the driver's door. The term "Hill Holder" has returned but is now integrated with the electric parking brake. VDC is now standard on all models currently offered internationally.[5] The vehicle has also added safety technologies such as Electronic Stability Control, Brake Assist, and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution to the list of standard features. The external "Limited" badge, introduced in 1998, has been retired on North American vehicles, and if the vehicle has the 3.6 L six cylinder engine, the rear of the vehicle has a "3.6R" badge applied on the bottom right side. If the vehicle has the diesel engine, a badge that says "Boxer Diesel" is installed on the middle right rear side of the vehicle. Gasoline turbocharged vehicles can be visually identified with a front hood (bonnet) installed air scoop and symmetrical dual exhaust pipes below the rear bumper.

Subaru introduced improvements to the chassis, that they call Dynamic Chassis Control Concept, which uses high-tensile steel in critical areas to achieve high strength with lighter weight. The front-end structure introduces Cradle Mount that isolates the suspension and engine from the passenger compartment for a smoother and quieter ride using rubber mounts. New for this generation is a double wishbone rear suspension, with all suspension links and the rear differential isolated from the rear subframe with large rubber mounts to minimize noise and vibration intruding into the passenger compartment.

North American models[]

The interior is available in 2 colors (Warm Ivory or Off-Black) with leather offered on Limited trim packages. Standard on Limited models, and optional on Premium models, is a 440 W, 9-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system using Dolby Pro Logic II technology and DTS Digital Sound is standard, with Bluetooth and iPod capability, and an optional 8- voice activated GPS touch screen navigation system. A Harman/Kardon sourced stereo with a single disc in-dash CD player and SRS Circle Surround sound is the standard sound system offered with four speakers on all other models. A separate Bluetooth wireless package with voice recognition, called Blueconnect, is available optionally on all trim packages without the GPS/stereo package, installed in the center of the dashboard below the standard sound system, and is not offered internationally. Black housing for headlights is not offered on North American models. The front hood (bonnet) and front bumper covers are unique to the North American market due to slight changes in the sheet metal in comparison to those items used internationally. This is due to the North American Outback grille sharing a more prominent appearance also used on the third generation Forester and facelifted Tribeca and the hood and front bumper are shared on North American Legacies and Outbacks.

A dual zone climate control system is standard and available only on Limited trim designations with a 6-speed fan; the standard air conditioning/heating system has a 4-speed fan. Lower trim levels have silver metallic trim on the interior door panels and dashboard, with woodgrain on Limited vehicles. An optional LED accessory lighting package in blue can be installed for the front passenger footwells and a matching illuminated sill panel for the front doors. Oddly, the North American version has exposed cupholders without a retractable cover, whereas international versions have a retractable cover for the console installed cupholders. For model year 2011, the 2.5GT received some interior changes, replacing the woodgrain inserts on the doors and dashboard with faux carbon fiber inserts already offered on Legacy models internationally, along with contrasting stitching on the black leather interior, similar to the Japanese version and aluminum cross drilled pedals. XM Satellite Radio is also offered on Premium and Limited trim packages.

All models include painted exterior door handles, with black exterior side mirrors on the base level 2.5i sedan. Turn signal repeaters are no longer integrated into the side exterior mirrors, unlike the previous generation, however, for model year 2011 the exterior mirrors can be manually folded in. The 2.5i model is still certified as PZEV and is available for sale in all 50 states, with a badge installed on the right rear side of the vehicle. Other models have been certified LEV2 or ULEV. Premium unleaded fuel is required for vehicles identified as GT, where the engines are equipped with a turbocharger. The 2.5 L flat-4 engine without a turbo is available with a six speed manual transmission, a characteristic shared with Australia only.

Japanese models[]

SI-Drive, or Subaru Intelligent-Drive , (Japanese: SI-Drive) is standard equipment on all trim versions. It is a feature that enables three distinctly different modes of vehicle performance characteristics (identified as "Sport", "Sport Sharp", and "Intelligent") by regulating the engine control unit (ECU), the automatic transmission control unit (TCU, if equipped), and by fine-tuning the electronically controlled throttle. The SI-Drive control knob is installed on the center console between the heated front seat control switches. The "Intelligent" mode makes throttle response more gradual, and decreases maximum engine power by 10 percent. The "Sport" mode allows the engine to run at higher speeds and increases fuel efficiency by 5 percent in comparison to Subaru engines without the feature. The "Sport # (Sharp)" mode makes throttle response more abrupt and enables the automatic transmission to maintain higher RPM's within a given gear's range, and minimizes steering wheel effort. When the engine is started, the default setting is the "Sport" selection. SI-Cruise is an autonomous cruise control system that can reduce or resume a preset speed, or bring the vehicle to a complete stop if the system detects a slower vehicle is being followed, without driver intervention.

Japanese buyers can choose two different premium level entertainment systems; they can select the previously described Harman/Kardon GPS-stereo with six speakers, or a McIntosh sourced GPS/stereo with Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, a separate powered amplifier and 10 speakers. Both units are Gracenote, G-BOOK and VICS enabled, with both systems available with an internal 600 MHz 40GB HDD coupled with a digital TV tuner that can be watched when the transmission is in park and the parking brake applied. Both stereos are compatible with CD, CD-R/RW, DVD and DVD R/RW as well as MP3 and WMA music formats. A Harman/Kardon sourced stereo with a 6-disc in-dash CD changer and SRS Circle Surround sound is the entry level sound system offered with six speakers and is standard equipment. The center dashboard trim is color matched based on the stereo installed; if it has the Harman/Kardon units, the trim color is silver brushed aluminum, and if the McIntosh is installed the trim color is black brushed aluminum. The climate controls are also colored either silver or black as well.

Both GPS navigation systems can be displayed in a split screen format that shows both two- and three dimensions with graphic landmarks. Trim panels on the doors and the dashboard can be exchanged for an optional second woodgrain appearance or carbon fiber. The front and rear bumper covers can also be exchanged for Subaru designed aero-effects, allowing the buyer to install two types of mesh grilles, a choice of two front fog light selections, and a choice of oval or trapezoidal dual rear exhaust ports in chrome. A rear wiper is still available optionally on the back of the sedan, a tradition established with the first generation Legacy. The Warm Ivory interior color is only available on vehicles with the "L" package and SI-Cruise models; all other trim levels are available with black interior with black cloth upholstery, with leather offered optionally on the "L" package and SI-Cruise model. The dual-zone climate control system is standard on all trim levels.

A smart key is available as an option coupled with two position memory seat that memorizes driver's seat positions and adjustments, exterior mirror adjustments, and climate control settings. The settings can be customized based on the smart key module being used to unlock and start the car. Turn signal repeaters are still integrated into the side exterior mirrors on all Japanese-spec models. The black leather interior installed on vehicles with the "S" package can be fitted with optional black corduroy inserts with white contrasting French stitching on all visible seams and aluminum cross drilled brake, clutch and accelerator pedals. The Legacy wagon can be fitted with twin white LED lights installed on the interior hatch vertically surrounding the rear window with a separate light switch for additional illumination when the rear hatch is open. An optional LED accessory lighting package in either white or blue can be installed for the front and rear passenger footwells and a matching illuminated sill panel for the front and rear doors, and the standard overhead dome light can be exchanged for white LED as well.

HID headlights are standard equipment on all trim levels except the base 2.5i coupled with headlight washers. Rain sensing automatic wipers are also available. A choice between two backup cameras can be installed, along with front parking assist sensors. Bilstein struts continue to be available for performance handling. Air vents are installed for rear passengers at the back of the center front armrest compartment. According to the JDM STi Accessories brochure for the fifth generation Legacy sold in Japan, buyers can choose from several options to include stiffer springs for the suspension, short throw gear shift and specially designed 18 inch alloy wheels from BBS and ENKEI.[

On the one-year anniversary of the introduction of the fifth generation, "EyeSight" was once again offered on the Touring Wagon only. EyeSight consists of 2 cameras with one on each side of the interior rear view mirror, that use human like stereoscopic vision to judge distances and generally keep tabs on the driver. The system can help maintain a safe distance on the highway, a lane departure warning system, a wake up call when traffic lights change, and even keeps an eye out for pedestrians. SI-Cruise has been integrated into the EyeSight feature as a driver safety aid.

Legacy 2.5GT tS[]

In June 2010, the Legacy 2.5GT tS or tuned by STI (Subaru Tecnica International) was released for the Japanese Domestic Market. Built only as 600 units limited edition, the 2.5GT tS is available as B4 Sedan and Touring Wagon.

The modifications were focused on sharper handling and ride improvements. STI flexible tower bar, Bilstein inverted struts with stiffer springs, front flexible low stiffeners, and rear pillow-ball, and reinforced front crossmember means the 2.5GT tS has more rigidity and better steering feedback.

With front lip spoiler, 18 inch alloys, sport exhaust system, "tS" grille emblem, lip trunk spoiler (B4 Sedan), or roof spoiler (Touring Wagon), the Legacy 2.5GT tS has a sportier appearance than the regular 2.5GT.

Inside, the 2.5GT tS has black leather and Alcantara sports seats with red seams and STI label, titanium-finished instrument panels, and STI logo on the speedometer, steering wheel, shift lever, engine start/stop button, and floor mats.

Legacy 2.0GT DIT[]

Starting May 8, 2012, Subaru has replaced the EJ engine series with the new FA and FB engine series, co-developed with Toyota, and uses the FB25 on all trim packages, with the FA20 installed with a turbocharger called the Legacy GT DIT (direct injection turbo).

United Kingdom models[]

Currently only the wagon, called Legacy Tourer, is available to United Kingdom buyers with a choice of the Subaru EE turbodiesel with a six-speed manual transmission only or the 2.5 L with the continuously variable transmission only. The 3.6 L flat-6 engine and the turbocharged gasoline engine are not offered. The interior is available in black only, with cloth interior available on the 2.0D S base model and leather on all other trim levels. The interior trim strips on the doors and dashboard are silver on the base model and carbon fiber on all other models. The front bumper and bonnet use the Japanese configuration, to include self-levelling HID headlights and headlight washers. The SE model has sporty front bumper. The UK and Europe are offered an exterior paint selection, called Camellia Red Pearl that is not available in Japan or North America. Bilstein struts are standard on all trim levels except the 2.0D S. The dual-zone climate-control system is standard on all trim levels. All engines offered in the Legacy are Euro5 compliant. For vehicle security, a Thatcham Category 1 perimeter alarm and immobilizer, along with a rolling code ECU engine immobiliser are standard equipment.

The smart key is available on NavPlus models only using the Harman/Kardon GPS-stereo unit, and the two-position memory seat is available on all models except the 2.0D S trim level. 16-inch alloy wheels are standard on the 2.0D S model and 18-inch alloy wheels are standard on all other models. Rain sensing automatic wipers are standard on all models, as well as heated exterior mirrors, glass moonroof, heated front seats, fog lights, and tilt and telescoping steering wheel. The Harman/Kardon GPS/stereo with six speakers and the rear-view backup camera is installed only on vehicles with the voice recognition NavPlus system. The standard stereo system uses the Harman/Kardon sourced in-dash six-disc CD auto-changer.

European models[]

The European Legacy is available as either a sedan or wagon, and the engine choices are the flat-4 EE20 2.0 L turbodiesel, the EJ20 2.0 L, or the EJ25 2.5 L. Legacy GT with EJ25 turbocharged engine and 5-speed automatic transmission has been available in selected European countries. It has been phased out since (no official explanation has been presented). Even though its more rugged brother Outback is available with 3.6 L flat-6 engine, currently the most powerful engine choice for the Legacy sold on European market is naturally aspirated 170HP (130 kW) 2.5L coupled with Lineatronic gearbox. The interior colors of Warm Ivory or Off Black are offered, but the Warm Ivory is only available in leather. Carbon Fiber accents are only available on the Sport trim package with black leather interior. The dual-zone climate control system is standard on all trim levels. The turbodiesel is available with the Warm Ivory interior with the Harman/Kardon GPS sound system with six speakers and the satellite navigation, but the only transmission offered is the six speed manual transmission. All engines except turbocharged EJ25 are Euro5 compliant.

Cruise control, heated seats, automatic windshield wipers, HID headlights with headlight washers, heated exterior mirrors, glass moonroof and 17" wheels are standard equipment. 18" alloy wheels are standard on the lop level trim packages Comfort and Sport. The smart key is available only on the Sport or Comfort trim packages, coupled with the Harman/Kardon satellite navigation system and memory seats. The front hood (bonnet) and front bumper covers use the Japanese configuration, with turn signal repeaters on the exterior mirrors, and standard equipment front and rear foglights. Japan and Europe are offered an exterior paint selection, called Dark Amethyst Silica that is not available in the UK or North America.

South African models[]

The Legacy is offered as a sedan with black interior; specifications are similar to European "Comfort" trim package. The Legacy 2.0i Premium comes with the choice of a six-speed manual transmission or Lineartronic CVT, leather trim, power driver's front seat with memory function, dual zone climate control, electric sunroof and 16 inch alloy wheels. The Legacy 2.5i Sport Premium CVT adds dual front electric seats, carbon-fibre dash inserts, alloy pedals, sports front bumper and grille; Bilstein suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels and Xenon headlights with headlight washers to the Premium package. Satellite navigation is not offered along with the premium Harman/Kardon sound system.

Australian model[]

The Liberty sedan and wagon sold in Australia resembles the vehicle sold in Europe, with some features only available in Japan. The engines offered are the EJ25, EZ36 and the EJ25 with a turbo. Australians can choose either the Lineartronic CVT or a 6-speed manual transmission on the 2.5i, a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission on the 2.5GT, but transmission choices on the EZ36 are limited to the 5-speed automatic. The Off Black interior color is standard across the range, however the Warm Ivory is available on the 3.6R, with leather interior offered on vehicles identified as "Premium". Cloth is offered on the 2.5i in black only. SI-Drive is offered on the 3.6R or the 2.5GT. The front bumper and hood (bonnet) use the Japanese configuration. Bilstein struts are standard equipment on all vehicles identified as 2.5i Sports and the 2.5GT turbo. The 2.5i Sports models and the 2.5GT can be identified by black housing for the HID headlights.

The dual-zone climate control system is standard on all trim levels. Sound systems offered include the McIntosh GPS/stereo unit with 10 speakers, a separate powered amplifier and satellite navigation provided by "WhereIs", a service provided by Telstra Corporation Ltd, or the Harman/Kardon stereo with the satellite navigation and 6 speakers or the unit offered in North America and Europe with a 6-disc in-dash CD changer and 6 speakers. The McIntosh unit sold in Australia has function buttons written in English and is different from the Japanese unit, due to Japanese characters being used on some of the functions. The Australian McIntosh or Harman/Kardon GPS-stereo packages are not Gracenote, G-BOOK and VICS enabled, and do not have the internal 600 MHz 40GB HDD coupled with a digital TV tuner. The center dashboard trim is color matched based on the stereo installed; if it has either one of the Harman/Kardon units, the trim color is silver brushed aluminum, and if the McIntosh is installed the trim color is black brushed aluminum. The climate controls are also colored either silver or black as well. Silver trim is installed on the doors and dashboard on the 2.5i and 2.5i Premium, carbon fiber inserts on the 2.5i Sports models and the 2.5GT, with woodgrain available only on the 3.6R sedan. Cruise control, heated seats, automatic windshield wipers, HID headlights with headlight washers, heated exterior mirrors, with 17" wheels as standard equipment on the 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Premium SatNav and 18" wheels on the 2.5i Sports, Sports Premium, Sports Premium SatNav and the 2.5GT Premium SatNav. The smart key is available only on the 2.5GT or the 3.6R, and the glass moonroof is only offered on Premium trim packages.

Fourth generation (BL/BP; 2003)Generations[]

Third generation (BE/BH; 1998)[]

mm


Wheelbas

Second generation (BD/BG/BK; 1993)[]

All turbo models in North America ceased production with the introduction of the second generation Legacy, starting in 1995. The North American Outback model, with the help of clever marketing, halted declining sales and was instrumental in attracting investment interest from General Motors. GT models, first offered as a wagon trim package in 1994, became a full-blown upgrade in 1996, using the new DOHC 2.5 L engine. GT models continue to the present model, with Limited editions available, offering leather trim and a sunroof.

On April 23, 1998, a Subaru Legacy set a new world speed record for mass-produced turbocharged station wagons (1600 cc–2000 cc class), clocking 270.532 km/h over one kilometer on Highway 10 in La Junta, Colorado. This record was previously set by a Generation II Subaru Legacy in 1993 at 249.981 km/h.

First generation (BC/BF/BJ; 1989)[]

In North America, the Legacy was introduced in 1990, with a 2.2 L engine driving front and all-wheel drive powertrains as options. Both sedan and wagon models were available. In 1991, a turbocharged sedan model became available, though its engine differed somewhat from that of other market offerings. A turbocharged wagon debuted in 1992 as a special edition.

The original Legacy speed record was set between January 2nd and 21st, 1989, with a Japanese-spec RS turbo sedan at the Arizona Test Center outside of Phoenix, Arizona. It broke the 100,000km FIA World Land Endurance Record by maintaining an average speed of 138.780 mph (223.345 km/h) for 447 hours, 44 minutes and 9.887 seconds, or 18 1/2 days. Pit stops were made every two hours with a driver change and refueling, while tire changes were made at 96 hour intervals, or every 13,400 miles driven.

Legacy chronology[]

November 1988 Production of the Legacy starts at the Gunma Yajima Plant
January 1989 The Legacy sets a new FIA-certified 100,000-kilometer world speed record with an average speed of 223.345 km/h.
February 1989 Introduction in Japan
April 1989 Introduction in U.S.
September 1989 Introduction in Europe
September 1989 Production starts at SIA
October 1989 200 PS turbocharged GT launched in Japan
April 1990 Legacy enters the World Rally Championship (WRC)
August 1993 Legacy wins New Zealand Rally in WRC
September 1993 The second-generation Legacy ( Station Wagon) sets an FIA-certified world speed record for 1 km in the mass-produced, unmodified station wagon division at the Bonneville Speedway near Salt Lake City, Utah, with an average speed of 249.981 km/h.
October 1993 The second-generation Legacy debuts in Japan
October 1994 250T version with a 2.5 L flat-4 added in Japan
June 1995 Production of the Outback starts at SIA
July 1995 Engine assembly begins at SIA
June 1996 GT-B introduced in Japan, with a 280 PS engine and Bilstein twin-tube shock absorber (inverted-type)
January 1997 Cumulative production in Japan reaches the 1-million mark
April 1998 The third-generation Legacy (Station Wagon) sets a new FIA-certified world speed record for 1 km with an average speed of 270.532 km/h.
June 1998 All-new, third-generation Legacy introduced in Japan
December 1998 B4 Sedan debuts in Japan
December 1998 Awarded RJC New Car of the Year for 1998-99 in Japan
February 2000 B4 Blitzen version introduced in Japan
May 2000 Lancaster 6 with a 3.0 L flat-6 engine introduced in Japan
June 2002 SIA celebrates the 1-million-unit milestone in its production of Subaru vehicles.
January 2003 SIA is made a wholly owned subsidiary of FHI
May 2003 The fourth-generation Legacy launched in Japan
November 2003 Awarded the Car of the Year for 2003-2004 in Japan
December 2003 Sales surpasses the 1-million mark in Japan
March 2005 Production surpasses the 3-million mark worldwide

Production numbers[]

Japan SIA Total
First-generation Legacy 620,444 204,168 824,612
Second-generation Legacy 495,471 466,354 961,825
Third-generation Legacy 434,624 467,447 902,071
Fourth-generation Legacy 204,776 106,716 311,492
Total 1,755,315 1,244,685 3,000,000
Production numbers as of March 14, 2005

Chassis codes[]

  • Generation I: BC - Sedan, BF - Wagon
  • Generation II: BD - Sedan, BG - Wagon
  • Generation III: BE - Sedan, BH - Wagon
  • Generation IV: BL - Sedan, BP - Wagon

(other similar chassis codes exist for VIN numbers in the North American market. BF may be shown as BJ on some Legacy wagons, for example. These chassis codes are almost universally recognized for the models they represent worldwide.)

Engines[]

The EJ-series engine was introduced first in the Legacy. It offers many important improvements over the previous engines, such as five main bearings instead of three. All Legacy engines are horizontally-opposed flat engines with at least one overhead cam per side. The great thing about the EJ series is its versatility - any EJ style engine will fit any subaru made between 1990 and 2006.

  • 1.6 L & 1.8 L world-market four-cylinder engines exist. Some are likely to be carbureted, or feature a single central fuel injector.
  • 2.0 L & 2.2 L fours were available in normally aspirated, fuel injected form in most markets. This is the most commonly used legacy engine. The 2.0L quad cam 16v version produces 123kW of power.
  • 2.0 L turbocharged and intercooled fours have been a staple of the Legacy in world markets. Single and twin turbo models existed only in world markets, never available in North America. Twin turbos were used until 2003 when a single twin-scroll titanium turbocharger sourced from IHI and Mitsubishi- for automatic transmission models (and very similar to that used in the Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VII onwards) was adopted by Subaru.
  • 2.2 L turbocharged four-cylinder engines were available in the North American Legacy between 1991 and 1994. This was a unique version not equipped with an intercooler while featuring a single overhead camshaft. It has many resemblances to the RA-version engines in world markets.
  • 2.5 L, DOHC, normally aspirated and fuel injected four-cylinder engines were available in the US market beginning in 1996. A revised version, with a single overhead camshaft, was available in North American models beginning in 2000. Some hybrid versions have been known to exist in Outback models during the 1998–99 years. World markets received versions of this engine with variable valve timing as early as 2001.
  • 2.5 L, DOHC, turbocharged and intercooled four-cylinder engines are available in North American market GT models, beginning in 2005. This engine shares many parts with other versions of the Impreza WRX STi, Forester XT and Baja Turbo, as well as the Outback XT which are available only in the North American market.
  • 3.0 L, DOHC, normally-aspirated flat-6s became available in the Japanese market in 2000 and the North American market in 2001. This was a complete redesign, and shares only peripheral parts with earlier flat- or boxer-six engines. This engine is optionally available in the North American market Outback. An updated 3.0 L six, known as the EZ30R, features variable valve timing called AVCS. This version entered the North American market with the introduction of the 2005 Outback.

Performance models[]

Subaru has produced high performance versions of the Legacy with a Bilstein suspension and tuned turbocharged engines equivalent to the homologized rally version WRX STI (generating 205 kW on manufacturer's figures for the 2.0 L equivalent engine with manual transmission). Recent 3.0 L engines move close to the 2.0 L turbo output and share the Bilstein suspension. 2.0 L-engined turbocharged models with the Bilstein suspension were named either the GT-B (for wagons), or Spec B, or RSK-B4 (for sedans). The new 2003 model moved many models to simply B4 or even GT in some countries. The Spec B badge still exists in the UK, where the 3.0R stands as the premier MY06 model.

In North America, early sporty models were known simply as the Sport Sedan and Touring Wagon. Later models were given the GT and GT Limited nomenclature. The 2006 Legacy model brought forth a limited run of 500 Spec B models. This model features an improved suspension, navigation, larger wheels, and other driving and aerodynamic improvements over the GT model.

The new 2007 Legacy Spec B will be mass produced, unlike the limited production of 500 units from the '06 model within the US.

Motorsports[]

World Rally Championship[]

The Legacy was campaigned by Subaru in the WRC, with the help of Prodrive, beginning in 1990. It wasn't considered a truly competitive model at first, but showed promise under the command of Markku Alen, who in 1991 managed a third-place finish at the Swedish Rally. 1992 debuted the combination of experienced Group B, Pikes Peak International Hillclimb, and WRC driver Ari Vatanen, paired with the up-and-coming Scotish driver Colin McRae for Subaru's WRC effort. Two second place finishes, one by each driver, strengthened the commitment of Subaru to WRC, the Legacy, and their drivers.

1993 became a breakout year for Subaru as Colin McRae and Ari Vatanen pushed the Legacy to a third place finish at the Swedish Rally and a one-two placing after the first leg of the Acropolis Rally. Prodrive boss David Richards was eager to prove the potential of the new Impreza WRC car, but was charged with gaining a victory in the Legacy before the Impreza could debut. At Round 8, Subaru finally struck gold when McRae managed to hold back Francois Delecour in his Ford Escort for the win. This would be the last WRC event for the Legacy, as the Impreza debuted at the following event, where it placed second in the hands of Vatanen.

Richard Burns was successful in numerous events with the car during 1992 before joining the World Rally team to drive the Impreza in 1993. Alister McRae, Per Eklund, Possum Bourne and Hannu Mikkola also competed in the Legacy during its WRC participation.

Rallying[]

The Legacy remains an ever-present competitor in rallies around the world. SCCA ProRally and Rally America participation from many teams has been impressive. The Legacy and the Impreza have many interchangeable parts which makes for a very competent and reliable entry.

Worldwide[]

Models have typically been released into Japan and selected World markets such as New Zealand and Chile in advance of the Continental European and North American markets, perhaps because all three are right-hand drive markets.

  • Generation I: 1989–1992
  • Generation II: 1993–1997
  • Generation III: 1998–2003
  • Generation IV: 2003–present

The first generation Legacy was also sold in Japan by Isuzu as the Aska CX, from 1990 to 1994.

In Japan, the Legacy has a reputation for being an affordable, quick, and nimble car. Subaru is trying to follow the success of the Impreza worldwide with the Legacy, offering turbocharged models in Japan and the Americas. The latest Legacy model has never had a turbocharged version released in Europe due to emission problems.

Design quirks and oddities[]

  • The exterior of the second-generation Legacy was designed by Olivier Boulay, who was hired by Subaru on a short-term basis. He would go on to participate in the design of the Maybach 57 and 62 and influence several Mitsubishi projects.
  • The Legacy has many different trim levels in the Japanese market, with an assortment of different names (i.e. Brighton, Lancaster, Outback, and VZ to name a couple). Perhaps the most dubious one of all would be the 1993 Subaru Touring Bruce, named due to Bruce Willis lending himself to a home market advertising campaign.

Awards[]

  • 1990 NRMA Best Medium Car
  • 1991 NRMA Best Medium Car
  • 1991 RACWA Best Medium Car
  • 1991 RACT Best Medium Car
  • 1991 RACQ Best Medium Car
  • 1991 Wheels Magazine Quality Rating Award
  • 1992 NRMA Most Reliable Car
  • 1992 RACV Most Reliable Car
  • 2004 Japanese Car Of The Year
  • 2004 RACV Australia's Best Mid-size Car Over $28,000
  • 2005 RACV Australia's Best Luxury Car Under $57,000
  • 2007 National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council Secure By Design award
  • 2009 Car of the Year Philippines Car of The Year & Mid-Sized Car of the Year [5]

See also[]

Impreza-wrcsmall
SUBARU

Fuji Heavy Industries

Subaru

Current: Impreza WRX · Impreza WRX STI · Legacy · Outback · Forester · B9 Tribeca · R1 · R2 · Pleo · Sambar · Justy · Exiga · Dex · Trezia · BRZ

Historic: Alcyone SVX / XT · 360 · FF-1 Star · FF-1 G · 1400 DL/GL · 1600 Leone · 1800 · Alcyone · Subaru 22B STi · BRAT · Brumby · Baja · Leone · GL/DL/Loyale · Rex · Traviq · Vivio

Racing: Impreza WRC · Legacy B4 GT300

Concept: Elten Custom · Fleet-X · HM-01 · WX-01 · B9 Scrambler · R1e · R2 · B11S · B5-TPH · Impreza WRC Concept · G4e Concept · Impreza Exiga Concept · STELLA Concept · Impreza WRX STI Takumi Concept · Forester XTI Concept · Forester Mountain Rescue Vehicle Concept · Legacy Concept · Hybrid Tourer Concept · Impreza Concept

Subaru Tecnica International · Engines

edit Chikuhei Nakajima Corporate website A subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries



External links[]

News & References

Enthusiast Sites & Discussion Forums

Blogs

References[]

  • Legacy Makes 3 Million [6] Subaru New-Zealand
  • Japan: Subaru Legacy Touring Wagon, B4 Sedan get "tuned by STI" treatment [7]


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