Reviews - Subaru

Overall Rating

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.

• Solidly built, durable and very reliable
• Roomy, comfortable and family-friendly, especially estates
• Four-wheel drive and good suspension give enjoyable handling

• All are a bit thirsty; 3.0 H6 is worst
• Some repair and maintenance items are costly
• 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.

JD Power stars: 4

NCAP: 4

Best Models: 2.5 Outback estate

Worst Models: 2.0 GL saloon

Replacement: 2003 by current Legacy line-up

• Audi A4 (1995-01)
• Rover 75
• Volkswagen Passat (1997-01)