SUBARU LEGACY | The Fifth Generation Continues Its Evolution
CAR / NEWS
March 19, 2015

SUBARU LEGACY | The Fifth Generation Continues Its Evolution


SUBARU LEGACY | The Fifth Generation Continues Its Evolution


Subaru has announced the details of its new Legacy sedan.


Text by Giraffe




A Body That Has Grown Slightly Larger



This new model, the fifth generation since its debut, measures 4735mm in length, 1820mm in width, and 1505mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2750mm. This represents an increase of 35mm in length, 90mm in width, and 80mm in height compared to the current model.

While the front and rear overhangs have been shortened by 45mm, the wheelbase has been extended by 80mm. This has been done to improve interior space, particularly for rear-seat passengers, enhancing overall comfort.

The exterior design largely follows the 'Legacy Concept' unveiled in Detroit in January. The prominently flared fenders evoke the powerful performance expected from Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.

The engine and transmission combinations announced for the North American specification include: for the '2.5i', a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed 4-cylinder engine (170ps, 23.5kgm) paired with a 6-speed manual or Lineartronic transmission; for the '2.5GT', a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed 4-cylinder turbocharged engine (265ps, 35.7kgm) with a 6-speed manual; and for the '3.6R', a 3.6-liter horizontally opposed 6-cylinder engine (256ps, 34.2kgm) with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Each combination reportedly achieves improvements in power, fuel efficiency, and environmental performance.


SUBARU LEGACY | Subaru Legacy

SUBARU LEGACY | Subaru Legacy


Official Debut at the New York Auto Show



The Lineartronic (CVT) offered with the 2.5i is noteworthy as Subaru's next-generation automatic transmission. According to Subaru, it is the world's first longitudinally mounted chain-driven continuously variable transmission for a mass-produced AWD passenger car. This chain-driven CVT not only allows for greater torque transfer but also reduces friction, significantly improving fuel economy.

Inside, the adoption of an electronic parking brake is a key feature. This enhances the usability of the center console area and improves the overall design. Combined with newly designed seats, a steering wheel, and a four-gauge cluster with aluminum-accented, continuously illuminated rings, the interior offers a sporty yet refined and high-quality space.

The new Legacy sedan also represents a significant leap in safety, with all models equipped as standard with VDC & EBD-equipped ABS, front and passenger airbags, side airbags, and curtain airbags.

The vehicle will be officially unveiled at the New York Auto Show, opening on the 8th, with a planned debut in Japan in May, alongside the wagon model.