Six Star Magazine Six Star Magazine Autumn 2007 | Page 15

PREVIEW
The Legacy: Style to burn
For 2008, the Subaru Legacy features a number of styling changes,
as well as significant revisions to the powertrain and suspension
system. These developments have been the result of an unwavering
commitment to continually improving this dynamic line of sport
sedans and touring wagons. (Speaking of commitment, the Legacy
Wagon is now exclusive to Canada, in the North American market, a
clear reflection of Subaru’s keen interest in this country.)
In terms of exterior styling, both the Sedan and Wagon receive
a new front grille with chrome crossbars, new front bumper, new
headlights and new front fenders. Moving towards the back, the
Legacy also features new side-view mirrors, a new rear bumper
and new taillights. The net effect of all these design changes is
an added measure of style and sophistication for an already
well-heeled vehicle.
Inside the cabin, the theme of additional refinement continues.
Inspired by the award-winning interior of the Subaru Tribeca, the

through an advanced approach to engine management known as
the i-Active Valve Lift System. This system automatically adjusts the
intake valves at high revs to allow for more air to be drawn in.
This process, in turn, creates increased power when passing
other cars and merging onto highways, yet still delivers impressive
fuel efficiency and lower emissions. The 2.5i engine generates
170 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque, creating the perfect blend
of performance and efficiency.
A shift in thinking
Perhaps the biggest news story surrounding the 2008 Subaru
Legacy is the vastly improved 5-speed Electronic Direct Control
Automatic Transmission with SPORTSHIFT™ (5EAT SS). Available
on the 2.5GT Sedan and Wagon, the 5EAT SS has been honed to
such a degree, it now offers world-class levels of shifting speed. The
previous transmission accomplished gear changes in 0.6 seconds;
this has now been slashed to a lightning-quick 0.2 seconds.

Legacy 2.5GT Sedan

Legacy features new fabrics, a new instrument panel and a new,
sportier steering wheel. The wheel now has a telescoping function
and, in the Legacy 2.5GT, also houses buttons to operate the audio
system, cruise control and SI-DRIVE engine management system.
In the Legacy 2.5GT with the 5-speed automatic transmission, the
steering wheel column also features paddle shifters – more on this
exciting development later.
More efficient, more green, more exciting
The Legacy continues with the choice of two different engines:
a naturally-aspirated, 4-cylinder 2.5-litre SUBARU BOXER (for the 2.5i)
and a turbocharged, 4-cylinder 2.5-litre SUBARU BOXER (for the
2.5GT and 2.5GT spec.B).
The turbo engine – which produces a robust 243 horsepower
and 241 lb-ft of torque – benefits from a revised SI-DRIVE system.
These refinements have boosted fuel economy when running
in Intelligent Mode and improved throttle response when in
Sport Sharp Mode.
The engine in the Legacy 2.5i has received significant upgrades

As previously mentioned, the Legacy 2.5GT with the 5EAT SS
features steering wheel column mounted paddle shifters. The
aluminum shift levers have a great tactile quality, ensuring that gear
changes are positive and precise. To generate an all-around
sportier driving experience, the transmission also automatically
initiates throttle-blipping on downshifts to match engine speeds
(in SPORTSHIFT™ mode).
While the manual transmissions available with the Legacy 2.5i
and 2.5GT are certainly enjoyable, the 5EAT SS might just give them
a run for their money in the fun-to-drive sweepstakes.
Designed for the (rough) road ahead
Anyone who drives a Subaru knows that they handle like a
dream – and the Subaru Legacy Sedan and Wagon are no
exception. Not content to rest on their laurels, however, Subaru
engineers have taken a close look at the suspension system on the
Legacy and introduced some important refinements.
Bump steer is the tendency for the front wheels to steer of their
own accord as they rise up after navigating a bump in the road.

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