We say
Good load-lugger and powerful engines but not an obvious choice in the sector, especially on running costs.
Performance
163bhp 2.0-litre model has low-down torque and power, while the 3-litre V6 has 242bhp and is smooth, responsive and fast. Auto box dents performance, as is the case with the saloon variant, too.
Emissions
3.0-litre R spec models are horrific in terms of CO2 emissions and fuel economy, returning just 23mpg and emitting 290g/km in CO2 and are unrealistic for most people. The best in the range is the 2.0-litre petrol unit but that still returns just 36mpg and emits 183g/km – way behind brilliant standards set by the class leaders in the segment.
Driving
The Legacy Estate handles well and remains controlled around bends with relatively little bodyroll. The engine sits low down in the Legacy which means there’s a low centre of gravity and plenty of grip as a result.
Feel
Raspy engines sound good but the 2.0-litre model is noisy when pushed. The ride is quite stiff and you do tend to crash around in the back of the Legacy Estate on uneven road surfaces.
Space
The Legacy Estate is an estate, obviously, so you expect plenty of room in the front and rear. Three adults is asking too much in the back but generally there’s little to complain about. At the back there’s a massive 459-litre boot which is one of the biggest in the segment and that expands to almost 1,400 when the rear seats are folded flat.
Equipment
Climate control, electric windows, CD player, cruise control are standard. 3-litre models have sat-nav.
Price
High running costs make the Legacy a difficult car to justify however list prices are competitive, starting from a nudge over £17,000.
Quality
All Subaru’s are robust and that’s the case with the hard-wearing Legacy Estate. Inside, it looks sleek however on closer inspection there is a lot of hard-touch plastic and cheap materials throughout.
Safety
Front, side and curtain airbags are fitted on all models while ABS and traction control are standard. All models have 4WD.
Pros
The Legacy Estate is one of the more sporty estates on the market but it’s still quite practical. With the large 3.0-litre engine its performance is excellent as well.
Cons
The Legacy Estate comes into its own with the largest engine, unfortunately that goes hand in hand with dire emissions and fuel economy figures, too.
Alternatives
Vauxhall Vectra Estate, Ford Mondeo Estate, Saab 9-3 Sportswagon