When you think Subaru, you automatically think of phenomenal cars such as the amazingly powerful Impreza WRX. You think speed, you think performance and you think of the sort of power that has made Subaru a force to be reckoned with.
But you don’t think family saloon.
Despite Subaru’s legendary reliability and the fact that it produces the very capable Forester, one wouldn’t normally associate the brand with one that caters for families.
However, the new Legacy range is about to change all that.
As a mid-sized vehicle, even the entry-level 2-litre R has an uncanny Subaru agility and the engine’s sound effects are another reminder that, while it’s a family vehicle, it remains a sporty Subaru.
The car has an attractive look about it, yet it doesn’t have any radical design features and should therefore prove to be popular with most people.
The slightly flared wheel arches as well as the smooth lines make for a nice enough presentation without being boring.
Inside, the 2,0R comes with Clima-tronic aircon, a front-loading CD player, electric windows, six airbags, anti-lock braking system and electronic brake-force distribution.
The interior styling is simple, yet functional, and the quality of the upholstery and trim is of a high standard.
The front seats are quite low and this goes a long way in enhancing the Legacy’s sporty appeal.
The Legacy 2,0R accelerates in a pleasantly brisk yet confident manner and the standard-across-the-range asymmetrical all-wheel drive and all-independent suspension makes driving in wet weather a far less stressful exercise. Considering the price (R227 000), it must be noted that other all-wheel drive systems cost at least R100 000 more and, for this reason alone, I would advise anyone looking for a mid-sized vehicle to test-drive the Legacy as the all-wheel drive gives it a sure-footedness that makes a marked difference to the car’s roadholding ability.
The Legacy range consists of 2-litre and 3-litre options in either sedan or estate versions.
The 2-litre powerplant produces 121kW of power and 187Nm of torque and the manual will reach 100kph in 9,1 seconds and has a top speed of 214kph.
I was constantly surprised by the ease with which you can drive this car. It’s responsive, the steering is impressive and while it has loads of space, it makes for enthusiastic driving.
It might not have the same stature as other established brands which have been producing mid-sized vehicles for decades, but it offers phenomenal value for money and the sort of features and comfort that cannot be ignored.
There was only one aspect of the vehicle that I was somewhat concerned about. My test unit struggled to start up on three separate occasions. I’m aware that it had about 13 000km on the clock and, while I understand it was due for a service, it is nonetheless worth noting.
That said, I hope those in the market for a family vehicle will realise they can no longer limit themselves to certain brands, because ignoring such a capable and truly impressive car is quite simply daft.