On Test: Subaru Legacy Tourer 2.0 TD
The lower body is designed with minimum character lines to emphasise strength and stability.
Safe, structurally sound, striking and sumptuous best describes the new fifth generation Subaru Legacy. Even more so with the Tourer or estate model currently under the occupancy of Fleet Car/Caravan Cruise magazines. Featuring redesigned stand-out features such as the new grille and headlamp structure, the latest Legacy is longer and wider and as a result takes a bolder stance on the road. At the heart of the newcomer is of course the highly acclaimed 2.0 litre 150bhp Boxer Diesel not to mention the renowned Subaru All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) system.
An electronic parking brake is used. Hill-Hold function is also provided which is a big asset.
Inside all-new larger front seats provide superb support and comfort while the revised centre console/dash area creates a more ‘premium’ ambience than here-to-fore. The air-con system is now fully automatic (with an anti-dust filter) while the higher spec audio package is now controllable from the steering wheel. Larger rear doors improve access for rear occupants while for the load carriers, the Tourer’s tailgate is wider and taller than before.
A new six-speed manual gearbox is fitted as standard. Shift feel is both smooth and positive while the addition of an extra gear improves fuel economy and reduces engine noise.
Greater stability is supplied through a modified suspension front and rear and to achieve the right ride versus handling balance new dampers have been fine tuned to match the characteristics of the new Legacy. Should things go wrong on the driving front, drivers and passengers can feel assured with its 5-Star EuroNCAP crash safety rating.
Over the next month or so I will continue to enjoy the driving experience in the Legacy Tourer. Initial impression is excellent – power and traction are both very good. Fuel economy is better than the 6.1 litre/100 kms (46.3mpg)listed as it’s touching the 50mpg mark. More reports anon.
Jarlath Sweeney
