By: New Car Test Drive Staff
Photo Credit: Subaru

Overview

The Subaru Legacy gets fresh styling and new features for 2008. A variety of models is available, all of which are sedans. If you need a wagon, look to the Outback.

We've found all the 2008 Subaru Legacy models to be solid, tight sedans that inspire confidence when the going gets nasty. They offer a refined drive that's surprisingly agile in a sensibly sized package that won't bust the budget. Subaru's all-wheel-drive system is among the best in the world and performs beautifully in slippery conditions.

New for 2008 is the Legacy 3.0R Limited, which delivers the compact luxury you'd expect from an Acura TSX, Audi A4 or Volvo S40, with six-cylinder refinement, all-wheel drive the Acura doesn't offer, and a competitive price. The 3.0 R Limited uses similar high-end running gear and 18-inch wheels as the 2.5 GT spec.B, but with a smoother, more refined six-cylinder engine and a luxury-oriented demeanor.

The 2008 Legacy gets fresh styling: The Legacy sports a new front chrome crossbar and sheetmetal, new bumpers, new headlights and taillights. It is at once sleeker than previous models and a hint less distinctive. Some onlookers pronounced the 3.0R a Volvo, so Subaru's claim of more European styling isn't a reach.

Also revised for 2008 are the instrument panel and cabin fabrics. A telescoping function has been added to the tilt steering wheel, for improved adjustment for different size drivers. Tire pressure monitoring is standard across the board. Electronic stability control is available on more Legacy models, and paddle shifters have been added to the steering column on five-speed automatic cars.

A wide range of Legacy models covers the price spectrum from $21,000 to $35,000. Lower trim levels are high on value. The performance model is the spec.B, devoted to enthusiasts who need sedan practicality and all-wheel drive.

All Legacy models are four-door sedans. Subaru has dropped Legacy wagons for 2008, content to steer wagon buyers to the more aggressive looking Outback.

Every Subaru comes with all-wheel drive but none require any driver intervention and Subaru has an almost cult-like following among the snowbound. The Legacy earned quot;top safety pickquot; honors from the insurance industry's Insurance Institute of Highway Safety and quot;5-starquot; ratings for front and rear passengers from the U.S. government's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.