Subaru - Legacy |
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1998-03
Legacy is a high quality large family saloon and estate with permanent four-wheel drive delivering good performance and handling. It's refined, safe, practical and comfortable but pricey to run.
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Solidly built, durable and very reliable |
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Roomy, comfortable and family-friendly, especially estates |
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Four-wheel drive and good suspension give enjoyable handling |
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All are a bit thirsty; 3.0 H6 is worst |
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Some repair and maintenance items are costly |
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Modest ground clearance limits off-road ability |
Legacy is not the first name you think of when choosing a family car, but it should be on more shortlists. It bears comparison with most rivals in terms of quality, with a superbly finished interior and a feeling of solidity.
Full-time four-wheel drive might seem unnecessary but it's a Subaru strong point; it suits Legacy's character. Handling precise, while grip is reassuring under all road and weather conditions. The petrol engines are distinctive and powerful, pulling usefully from low speeds; Legacy makes a good tow car.
Equipment levels are generous across the range. The interior is spacious enough, but it's more of a four- than a five-seater. The Outback estate may be all the off-road vehicle buyers need if they aren't planning any heavy-duty off-roading.
Reliability has always been a Subaru strength. Fuel economy is not too heavily compromised by the four-wheel drive, but resale values are only average.
2.5 Outback estate
2.0 GL saloon
Audi A4 (1995-01)
Rover 75
Volkswagen Passat (1997-01)
