Subaru Legacy: The Fifth Generation Hits the Streets

May 30
18:56

2024

John Cena Smith

John Cena Smith

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The Subaru Legacy's fifth generation is making waves with its all-wheel drive, impressive performance, sleek design, optimized fuel consumption, and advanced safety features. Notably, the introduction of a 150 hp 2.0-liter diesel engine two years ago led to a 46% increase in sales in 2010 compared to the same period in 2009.

Engine Options and Performance

The Subaru Legacy offers two engine choices,Subaru Legacy: The Fifth Generation Hits the Streets Articles both delivering 150 hp: a 2.0-liter petrol engine and a 2.0-liter diesel engine. The petrol version's fuel consumption ranges from 5.9 to 8.5 liters per 100 km, with CO2 emissions between 156 and 198 grams per kilometer. Both engines come with a six-speed manual transmission, while the petrol variant also offers a Lineartronic automatic transmission with continuously variable shift and a torque converter.

Fuel Efficiency and Emissions

Engine Type Fuel Consumption (L/100 km) CO2 Emissions (g/km)
Petrol 5.9 - 8.5 156 - 198
Diesel 5.9 - 8.5 156 - 198

Safety and Reliability

The Subaru Legacy is renowned for its low center of gravity, all-wheel drive (AWD), and high safety standards. It features a front structure designed to move the engine downward in the event of a frontal collision, enhancing passenger safety. Standard safety equipment includes eight airbags (front, side, curtain, and knee), making it a highly reliable vehicle.

Comfort and Space

The Legacy offers both sedan and station wagon body styles, with the latter providing an additional 65 liters of cargo space, bringing the total to 486 liters. The vehicle's length has increased by 6.5 inches, and the wheelbase has grown by 8 mm, offering more interior space and comfort.

Standard Equipment

All models come equipped with:

  • Xenon headlights
  • Cruise control
  • Electronic parking brake
  • Steering wheel paddles for the automatic transmission
  • Auxiliary input
  • Hill start assist
  • Stability and traction control
  • Automatic headlights
  • Climate control
  • Audio system with CD changer

Optional Features

Optional features include:

  • Leather upholstery
  • Power button start
  • Electric seat adjustment
  • Navigation system
  • Voice control
  • Sunroof
  • Heated seats

The Subaru Legacy is available in three trim levels: Premium, Limited, and Limited Plus.

A Legacy of Endurance: The 100,000 km Record

The Subaru Legacy is one of the brand's oldest models, and it has a storied history. In 1989, the first generation of the Legacy set out to break the speed record over a distance of 100,000 kilometers. The goal was to cover this distance in the shortest time possible, minimizing stops for refueling and tire changes.

From June 2 to June 21, 1989, the Legacy achieved an average speed of 223.345 km/h, completing the distance in 447 hours, 44 minutes, and 9.887 seconds. The vehicle stopped every two hours for refueling and every 96 hours (approximately 21,600 km) for tire changes. The test took place at the Arizona Test Center on a nine-kilometer oval track.

This record improved the previous average speed by about 10 km/h and remained unbroken for 16 years. The data collected from this endurance test provided valuable insights into the vehicle's durability and performance.

Interesting Stats

  • The Subaru Legacy's 100,000 km speed record stood unbroken for 16 years, showcasing the vehicle's exceptional durability and performance.
  • In 2010, the introduction of the 150 hp 2.0-liter diesel engine led to a 46% increase in sales compared to the same period in 2009.

For more information on Subaru's latest models and innovations, visit Subaru's official website.

Conclusion

The fifth-generation Subaru Legacy continues to impress with its blend of performance, safety, and comfort. Whether you're looking for a reliable family car or a vehicle with a storied history of endurance, the Legacy stands out as a top choice.

For further reading on the Subaru Legacy's performance and safety features, check out Car and Driver's review and MotorTrend's analysis.

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