2008 Subaru Legacy Review

The Legacy is a midsize car that debuted in 1989. However, it wasn’t terribly noteworthy until 1998, when every Subaru, the Legacy included, began featuring standard all-wheel drive. It became even more popular with the debut of the third generation in 2000. The fourth and current generation debuted in 2005. It was selected as one of the IIHS’ “Top Safety Picks” for 2007.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The base Subaru Legacy is a terrific value. With its impressive interior, tight performance and standard AWD, the Legacy offers just about everything you could want for less. Overall it’s a great family sedan that can give you the hint of performance you crave.

What’s New For 2008:

The wagon version has been dropped. A tilt/telescopic steering wheel and audio input are now standard. The exterior has been slightly restyled and the instrument panel has been redesigned. The 3.0 R Limited has been introduced, featuring a 245-hp V6.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Legacy 4 stars for overall mechanical quality. Problems with the last generation included low brake pedals, water leaks and vehicle noise. It was recalled ten times. Problems with the current generation include axle noise, flaky passenger detectors and stuck fuel doors. It was recalled once in 2005 for weak air bags. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Legacy earned perfect government and IIHS crash test scores. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, active head restraints and AWD come standard. The GT spec.B and the 3.0 R come with standard stability control, with it available as an option on the 2.5i Limited and GT Limited.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Standard AWD
+ Excellent safety ratings
+ Good performance

Cons
- Small back seat
- Top trims can get expensive
- No traction control

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Honda Accord LX includes standard traction control and gets slightly better gas mileage, but lacks AWD. The Nissan Maxima SE has a larger V6 with 80 more hp, more trunk space and traction control, but costs nearly $8,000 more and lacks AWD. The Volvo S40 T5 includes traction control, 60 more hp, navigation, an automatic transmission and a CD changer, but costs over $8,000 more and lacks AWD.

What Others Are Saying:

“Yeah, this Subie can scream, and it handles great, too. We daresay that, in this case, our own rules about carmakers chasing upscale and downscale niches may not apply–maybe.” – Forbes

“The Legacy GT’s not-so-B9 makeover puts the model in prime position for the legions of more mature automotive enthusiasts desperately seeking Subie.” – The Truth About Cars

“Every review comes down to one thing: Would I spend my own money on the car? The question is particularly pertinent for the Legacy because I am in the target market. And the answer, as you have no doubt already guessed, is an unconditional ‘YES’.” – About.com

Read more about the 2008 Subaru Legacy at the Subaru manufacturer web site.