The exterior of the new Legacy presents an aggressive evolution of the readily recognizable image of the current model. Along with increased size (still not as wide as the US model) the aerodynamics of the new model have been improved, contributing to improved straight-line driving stability, quietness, and fuel economy. The underside of the floor has been made as flat as possible by the attachment of covers over several components located below the floor. The Station Wagon boasts a drag coefficient ratio (CD) of 0.3, and the Sedan model achieves 0.28. The door mirrors are fitted with light-emitting diode (LED) turn signal lights for the benefit of pedestrians and bikers.
The front interior reflects a sporty, compact cockpit design. For the best driving function, the center panel is tilted toward the driver's seat, and switches for various functions are laid out to be easily seen and reached. The range of driving position adjustability has been expanded for improved driving comfort. The lowest hip position in the driver's seat has been lowered by 5 mm, and the steering wheel has been placed 10 mm closer to the driver. Four circular meters are clustered together with overlapping silver circumference rings, and electro-luminescent meters are installed on the 2.0 GT and 2.0 GT spec. B versions. They highlight the sporty, high-quality look by adding red luminescent light to the rings and indicator hands for all cars. The meters' indicator hands also jump to the maximum limit when the ignition key is turned on, playing up the anticipation of driving. Audio and air conditioning controls are combined in a metallic-look center panel for a simple, elegant design. Seats have been redesigned to reduce fatigue on long journeys.
Four large suitcases can be easily stored in the Touring Wagon's cargo space, as in the previous model. All the Station Wagon models come with a one-touch folding switch, which automatically folds forward the backrests of the rear seats to open up the flat cargo floor in the rear of the car. An electromagnetic switch in the cargo area repositions the rear seat backrests (not available on the 2.0 GT Customized or 2.0i Casual editions). The cargo space tonneau cover is lightweight and smaller, improvements achieved through the use of aluminum. The tonneau cover can be stored under the floor mat, giving a more open, spacious cargo area (not available on the 2.0 GT Customized). Six luggage hooks made of die-cast aluminum are located on the cargo space floor, hanger hooks are available under both sides of the cargo room roof trim, and two side cargo pocket nets are attached to the sides of the cargo area.
About 80% of the engine components have been redesigned to further enhance driving pleasure. A new engine exhaust system and twin mufflers (except in the 2.0i and 2.0i Casual edition) have been added to improve engine exhaust efficiency and to deliver high torque in either the high or low rpm ranges. The "equal length/constant pulsation independent exhaust system" is fitted with two equal-length exhaust pipes, which help to induce equal levels of combustion in all four cylinders. An electronically controlled throttle optimizes torque delivery in response to the level of acceleration.
2.0 GT, turbocharged engine:
The single-turbine turbo system employs a new twin scroll titanium turbo charger. Improved
turbine rotation achieves efficient gas intake levels through the use of two independent exhaust
gas housings in combination with the new exhaust system. Through the use of lightweight titanium
alloy in the turbine, the newly designed turbo charger excels in response to acceleration and
delivery of high torque at any rotation speed. An Active Valve Control System (AVCS) optimizes the
timing of the intake and exhaust valves according to engine revolutions, which results in better
fuel efficiency and optimal torque output.
2.0R, DOHC engine:
The DOHC engine features a new intake manifold designed to induce the intake gas to reduce
ventilation resistance. This design promotes efficient gas intake into cylinders, thereby achieving
high power output. AVCS is fitted in the intake valves to enhance power output, optimal torque
delivery, and to boost revolutions.
2.0i, SOHC engine:
Intake efficiency has been further improved by the use of the new intake manifold shared with
the DOHC engine, as well as changes in intake and exhaust ports and cam opening angles. These
modifications also help improve response and increase fuel efficiency.
Automatic transmissions (AT) have been significantly upgraded for smooth gear changes and precise control. The 2.0 GT models come with a newly designed 5-speed AT, all except the 2.0 GT Customize with steering wheel controls. All AT-equipped vehicles are equipped with Sportshift® gear selection and an Info-ECO mode to facilitate fuel-efficient gear shifting patterns. An electronically controlled device adjusts the hydraulic pressure of the AT clutch and brake independently, providing seamless, responsive gear shifting and an enjoyable ride without vibration. All MT-equipped, turbo-engine models are equipped with an Info-ECO mode.
The engine position has been lowered by 22 mm in the front edge and by 10 mm in its front differential to improve driving performance by lowering the center of gravity. Driving stability has been further improved by an expanded tread and altered geometry, providing excellent traction. By expanding the steering angle, the minimum turning radius has been shortened, further enhancing the already nimble cornering. Chassis rigidity and strength were augmented by changes in the front cross members and the rear support subframe construction, as well as by reinforced joints between the body and cross members. Excellent driving stability has been enhanced by the even more rigid construction.
The rear suspension improvements include the use of aluminum rear arms, the adoption of upper links, and changes in the mounting subframes (only for turbo-engine models). The unsprung drive train weight in the car, which includes the weight of tires, brake components, and axles that are connected below the suspension springs, has been reduced without sacrificing stiffness in the drive train. The Bilstein damper on the 2.0 GT and 2.0 GT spec. B versions has been modified in its valve construction. By optimizing the damping force at the initial low force ranges, vehicle stability is further enhanced. Other versions are equipped with dampers with layered-valve construction, which uses friction control oil to maximize driving comfort.
The steering gear box construction has been modified, and a new method is now used to mount the box to cross members. A damper valve is used in the box as well. These changes further enhance steering response and maneuverability.
Outstanding braking performance and control have been achieved through the use of a smaller diameter master cylinder and a tie-rod type brake booster, which help strengthen booster shells by connecting them with rods that reduce deformation in the shells during braking. The 2.0 GT and 2.0 GT spec. B models are equipped with 17-inch front brake disks that provide high braking performance.
Turbo-engine models feature a linear motion mount that transfixes the right back of the engine with the body. This mount reduces the rolling effects of the engine during sharp cornering and helps increase driving comfort. The 2.0 GT, 2.0 GT spec. B, and 2.0 R versions are fitted with custom-made Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires, which provide a firm grip on both dry and wet roads.
Using advances on the new ring-shaped reinforcement frames with reinforced subframes around pillars, engineers have improved the body structure and achieved their goals for higher levels of strength and safety. Body weight has been reduced through the application of lightweight materials. The body structure has been streamlined with the optimization of mainframe shapes, cross-section sizes, and joint connecting methods. Ultra high tensile steel panels and tailored blanks are widely used for the body construction. This kind of engineering work has yielded ideal body strength, durability, and weight. To augment vehicle stability, yaw movement has been decreased by reductions in the weight of components located far from the car's center of gravity. These components include the front hood, rear tail gate on the Touring Wagon, and bumper beams, all now using lightweight aluminum. The new mounting position of the battery also contributes to decreased yaw.
Both driving performance and safety features are incorporated into the new Legacy. With improvements in the new ring-shaped reinforcement frames, front, rear, and side collision safety performance has been greatly enhanced. 2.0 GT and 2.0 GT spec. B are available with a Vehicle Dynamics Control system as a factory option, which coordinates the engine, transmission, and brakes in order to recover the vehicle's position when unstable movements occur on a slippery road. The front dual SRS air bags with dual-stage inflators deploy the bags in two stages, according to impact level, further improving passenger protection. Side-impact air bags have been added to protect the passenger's torso. Also added are overhead front and rear side-curtain air bags (available as a factory option, except on the 2.0 GT Customized or 2.0i Casual editions). Active headrests are mounted on the front seats, helping reduce the risk of neck injury in a rear collision, while break-away brake and accelerator reduce the risk of lower-limb injuries. Rear seats are equipped the ISOFIX child seat construction with tether anchors. Pedestrian safety is enhanced by increased engine room clearance, secured by changes in the engine position; impact absorbing insulators placed in the front bumper; and front hood hinges designed to incorporate shock-absorbing elements.
The 2 liter SOHC engine is the first Subaru engine to meet the Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (U-LEV) standards of Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MLIT), which call for an additional 75% reduction in emissions from FY2000 exhaust emission levels. All other engines satisfy MLIT's Good Low Emission Vehicle (G-LEV) standards, which require an additional 25% reduction from FY2000 exhaust emission levels. Legacy engines, except for that of the 2.0 GT spec. B version, satisfy the 2010 fuel economy standards of the MLIT. Through the redesigning of the engine, torque output at low- and middle-speeds has been improved, and lightweight materials are extensively used for overall body weight reduction. These changes have made possible a viable balance between outstanding driving performance and superb fuel economy. All models, except for the 2.0R MT model, come with the Info-ECO mode for actively promoting fuel-saving driving patterns.
Recyclability of polypropylene has been increased through the further use of the same kind of polypropylene material in interior parts. Recycled plastic materials, including recycled plastics from PET bottles, have been actively utilized. Environmentally harmful lead use in the new Legacy has reduced substantially, achieving the goal of the Voluntary Action Plan of the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Inc., to reduce the lead content in new vehicles in 2005 to one third of 1996 levels.
Building on the solid reputation of the sound quality in its previous model, Subaru has installed an advanced McIntosh audio system. The system reconfiguration was already under consideration in the early stages of vehicle redesign, taking into account the door's length, angles, and shape. The new McIntosh audio system has 13 speakers, including new midrange speakers, which deliver clarity and quality of sound nearly compatible to home audio systems.
A highly luminous, 7-inch touch-panel LCD with a DVD navigation system is available as a factory option. In addition to navigation functions, its multi-information display functions include instantly available mileage calculation and car maintenance check lists through the use of the in-car LAN network. The Legacy comes with an anti-theft warning system, which activates the horn and hazard lamps when doors, a trunk, or rear gate are unlawfully opened, while a remote-control door lock system is in use to close doors. The 2.0 GT and 2.0 GT spec. B models are equipped with an anti-theft immobilizer system.
A big tilt/slide power sunroof is available on the Touring Wagon (except on the 2.0 GT Customized or 2.0i Casual editions.) The roof glass opening has been expanded to create an open, spacious cabin. Sunroof frames and other parts have been redesigned to reduce the weight on the higher gravity point of the car. A tilt/slide power sunroof is also available on the Sedan.