Subaru's all-new range of Subaru Legacy and Outback vehicles is aimed directly at leading prestige European marques.

Each comes with lighter, wider, and more aerodynamic new bodies. Lines are crisper, cleaner and sleeker. Body bending rigidity is increased by 14 per cent and bonnets are now all aluminium.

All versions come with increased power, higher top speeds for the 2.0 and 2.5 litre models and improved fuel economy.

Standard features include its rally-honed symmetrical AWD system with ABS and EBD, climate control air-conditioning, alloy wheels, radio/CD, front, side airbags large enough to protect the head and chest, all-electric windows and remote central locking with immobiliser.

The entry level saloon 2.0i 138PS with automatic transmission, priced at €31,295 has a top speed of 119mph, does the 0-60mph trip in 12.7 seconds, and returns a combined fuel consumption of 37.7mpg. Interestingly, the automatic saloon pips its equivalent manual version in the combined fuel consumption stakes, scoring 37.7 as against 37.2mpg.

In all, 80 per cent of components have been changed in the new model.

In looks, Legacy has a strong presence due to the deep grille, wider body width, and wider tracks which flesh out the wheelarches - all giving a stable, squat and muscular stance. Front wings are curvier and a bonnet crease lines swoop down to the front bumper.

Frameless doors add to the sporty image as do the row of lights beneath the side mirrors.

The cabin is roomier with more shoulder and elbow space. Surfaces and materials have also been improved. The fascia, door trim, and grab handles all come with extra padding and texturing.

The whole design is practical and functional. Front seats slide 3mm further forward and 7.5mm more rearward. Also, the entire driver’s seat can be lifted 40mm. It’s the first thing I usually have to do with almost every car I test drive.

The steering wheel is smaller than before and the sporty but comfy front seats have supportive side bolsters.

Safety enhancements include active front head-restrains which reduce whiplash injuries in rear-end shunts, and the brake and clutch pedals snap away under severe impact, protecting the driver’s lower limbs.

There’s lots of storage space aboard including a tiered glove box, good door bins, and an open space behind the gear shifter, handy for your phone.


The radio is good too with the on/off volume knob to the right of the central console and so within easy reach. Buttons are of a nice manageable size and there is a CD player.

Chrome and aluminium-like trim feature large in the cabin including the entire central console.

All instruments can be clearly seen through the steering wheel. Dials are beautiful in design and easily read.

The Legacy comes with a three year or 100,000 mile warranty, three year paintwork guarantee, 12 year anti corrosion warranty, three year membership of Subaru Assistance, a home and roadside repair and recovery package valid throughout Ireland and Europe administered by Mondial Assistance.