Handling
When you compare the GT model to the standard wagon, the former has a clear advantage on the road thanks to its 17-inch wheels and upgraded suspension that keep it firmly planted in tight corners. With Subaru's acclaimed symmetrical AWD system, you literally feel the four tires sticking to the road. A curve that I used to negotiate at 70 km/h can be safely tackled at 80 km/h with the Legacy 2.5GT. Such remarkable handling characteristics obviously affect ride comfort. The firmer suspension might be harsh for most people, but sporty drivers will easily make the compromise.
SI-Drive system
Subaru engineers wanted to give their automatic transmission a little something that would appeal to driving enthusiasts. Enter the SI-Drive system. Using a rotating knob on the console, you can choose from three different performance levels: Intelligent (I), Sport (S) and Sport Sharp (S#).
The Intelligent mode is ideally suited to normal driving conditions because the transmission programming is nicely modulated. I alternated between the three modes during my road test and I noticed little change. A paddle on the bottom right side of the steering wheel allows you to go directly to the Sport Sharp mode. It's perfect for passing maneuvers, since gear changes are quicker and more convincing. Otherwise, the Intelligent mode is, as its name suggests, very clever; it adjusts to your driving style. Young racers will appreciate the two more aggressive modes, because they will get the impression that the car runs faster. Conversely, with the Intelligent mode, you're led to believe that the Legacy is keeping a slow pace. In reality, it simply focuses on optimizing fuel economy. When you need to surge forward, just slam the throttle and everything will be fine. Personally, I think that the Legacy GT's fuel economy is reasonable for a 243-hp wagon.
You can shift gears in three different ways : first, by letting the transmission do the work; second, by using the shift lever on the console; and third, by playing with the steering wheel-mounted paddles. Those paddles are great for downshifting, but upshifting is just as quick with the regular selector. It's all a matter of taste.
Conclusion
The 2008 Legacy Wagon offers a lot, both in terms of versatility and active safety (including the all-wheel drive). Plus, when you opt for the 2.5GT model, you get a sporty mid-size car with solid driving dynamics, regardless of road conditions. Such peace of mind is priceless.
AWD
Power
Interior versatility
Cargo room
Complex SI-Drive system
None
photo:Philippe Champoux
When you compare the GT model to the standard wagon, the former has a clear advantage on the road thanks to its 17-inch wheels and upgraded suspension that keep it firmly planted in tight corners. With Subaru's acclaimed symmetrical AWD system, you literally feel the four tires sticking to the road. A curve that I used to negotiate at 70 km/h can be safely tackled at 80 km/h with the Legacy 2.5GT. Such remarkable handling characteristics obviously affect ride comfort. The firmer suspension might be harsh for most people, but sporty drivers will easily make the compromise.
SI-Drive system
Subaru engineers wanted to give their automatic transmission a little something that would appeal to driving enthusiasts. Enter the SI-Drive system. Using a rotating knob on the console, you can choose from three different performance levels: Intelligent (I), Sport (S) and Sport Sharp (S#).
 |
| Subaru's SI-DRIVE system allows drivers to select the performance level that suits their needs. |
The Intelligent mode is ideally suited to normal driving conditions because the transmission programming is nicely modulated. I alternated between the three modes during my road test and I noticed little change. A paddle on the bottom right side of the steering wheel allows you to go directly to the Sport Sharp mode. It's perfect for passing maneuvers, since gear changes are quicker and more convincing. Otherwise, the Intelligent mode is, as its name suggests, very clever; it adjusts to your driving style. Young racers will appreciate the two more aggressive modes, because they will get the impression that the car runs faster. Conversely, with the Intelligent mode, you're led to believe that the Legacy is keeping a slow pace. In reality, it simply focuses on optimizing fuel economy. When you need to surge forward, just slam the throttle and everything will be fine. Personally, I think that the Legacy GT's fuel economy is reasonable for a 243-hp wagon.
| Performance | Intelligent Mode [I] | Sport Mode [S] | Sport Sharp Mode [S#] |
| 0 - 100 km/h | 8.90 seconds | 8.58 seconds | 8.67 seconds |
| 80 - 120 km/h | 6.39 seconds | 7.25 seconds | 6.28 seconds |
| Fuel Economy | Distance : 556 km | Quantity : 70.4 L of premium gas | Average : 12.67 L per 100 km |
You can shift gears in three different ways : first, by letting the transmission do the work; second, by using the shift lever on the console; and third, by playing with the steering wheel-mounted paddles. Those paddles are great for downshifting, but upshifting is just as quick with the regular selector. It's all a matter of taste.
Conclusion
The 2008 Legacy Wagon offers a lot, both in terms of versatility and active safety (including the all-wheel drive). Plus, when you opt for the 2.5GT model, you get a sporty mid-size car with solid driving dynamics, regardless of road conditions. Such peace of mind is priceless.
 |
Power
Interior versatility
Cargo room
 |
Complex SI-Drive system
 |
None
photo:Philippe Champoux
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