- Revised Boxer diesel engine cuts fuel consumption and CO2 emissions
- All diesel models fall below 160 g/km CO2 to deliver tax savings
- Six-speed manual gearbox is uprated and suspension is retuned
- High-res rear-view safety camera now standard across five-model range
- All new Legacys to benefit from Subaru’s ETCo aftercare package
Subaru’s Legacy Tourer has received a number of significant technical improvements and equipment upgrades for 2012 that will make ownership even more enjoyable, while also lowering running costs and environmental impact.
The most important change for 2012 is the fitting of Subaru’s next-generation Boxer diesel engine. This Euro 5-compliant power unit features a more efficient turbocharger, new exhaust-camshaft timing and lighter connecting rods, and is mated with new oxidation catalytic converters and Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). The result is an improvement (compared to the previous Boxer diesel Legacy) in fuel economy of over seven per cent, to 49.6mpg (combined), while CO2 emissions are cut by up to 7.5 per cent, to 149 g/km. Importantly, the latter drops the car’s VED band down to level F, saving customers £35 per year.
All 2012 Legacy Tourer diesel models now have a CO2 rating below 160 g/km which ensures they will qualify for tax savings by the hirer (of 15 per cent) and the leasing company / business users (10 per cent) – enhancing the vehicle’s appeal to a wider audience.
The improvements in economy and emissions haven’t undermined the diesel-powered Legacy Tourer’s performance. Generating 147 ps at 3,600 rpm and 350 Nm between 1,600 and 2,400 rpm, the diesel unit powers the car from zero to 62 mph in 9.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 120 mph.
Improved refinement and comfort
The Legacy’s six-speed manual transmission (standard fit for diesel models) has been refined to improve its fuel efficiency, shift feel and its ease of operation. Wider gear teeth, new synchromesh, lower friction bearings and low-viscosity transmission oil combine to deliver improved performance and refinement, while also helping to maximise the improvements made to the diesel engine.
Suspension modifications for all 2012 Legacy models include new bushes for the front anti-roll stabiliser bar mounts to improve ride comfort, new pressed upper rear suspension arms to reduce weight (saving 2 kg per car), and new pillow-ball bushes in the rear wishbones to reduce friction and provide a smoother ride.
With the introduction of the 2012 models, the Legacy Tourer line-up in the UK offers buyers a choice of five versions with a diesel or petrol engine and three trim levels – depending on model. New Legacy Tourer prices start at £26,865 (OTR) and cover a £4,510 range. Each model is so comprehensively equipped that the only factory-fitted option will be special paint finishes, priced at £500.
Additional equipment enhances value for money
Exterior changes are limited to new, aerodynamically smoother door mirrors, a higher-resolution rear view camera (SE NavPlus only) and the availability of a fresh new colour – Ice Silver Metallic.
Inside, the 2012 Legacy sports a single-CD unit featuring a large LCD display screen together with USB and iPod connectivity and steering wheel-mounted controls. On diesel models (with manual transmission) the instrument cluster now has a ‘shift-up’ indicator to encourage an economical driving style.
The 2012 Legacy is comprehensively equipped and all models feature cruise control, a glass ‘tilt-n-slide’ sunroof, dual-zone fully automatic air-conditioning, a premium audio system with six speakers (including two tweeters), automatic lights and wipers and a powered driver’s seat. A Bluetooth® hands-free system with voice activation is fitted as standard, while all but the S model are trimmed in black leather. Models with Lineartronic transmission feature steering wheel mounted paddle-shifters as standard.
SE and SE NavPlus models now feature a ‘Sports Package’ which comprises a sports front bumper and front grille, dark tinted headlamps, larger 18-inch alloy wheels and special Bilstein dampers. SE NavPlus models also feature a new DVD navigation system as standard, with a high-resolution eight-inch display for optimum clarity.
In the UK, the 2012 Legacy is available in a selection of six exterior body colours – one new colour (Ice Silver Metallic) – alongside five popular carry-over colours, Satin White, Galaxy Blue Silica, Crystal Black Silica, Graphite Grey Metallic and Camellia Red Pearl.
ETCo ‘Everything Taken Care of’ for 2012 Legacy buyers
Like all other Subaru models, the 2012 Legacy is backed up by Subaru’s new ‘Everything Taken Care of’ (ETCo) aftercare programme – guaranteeing complete peace of mind for the first three years of ownership.
Unique in the UK, the ETCo programme applies to retail sales only and offers a host of potential benefits worth over £7,000.
It comprises 11 different elements, all designed to make running and owning a new Subaru easier and more beneficial than ever, not to mention the cost benefits with each of the services provided free of charge.
Subaru ETCo’s comprehensive package includes: minor dent and scratch repairs, alloy wheel repairs, monthly wash ‘n’ vac, annual makeover – full valet, lost keys replacement, service collection and delivery, annual wheel alignment check, first MOT cover (and contribution to repairs), accident management service, insurance excess cover contribution, plus winter wheel and tyre storage.
2012 Subaru Legacy Tourer range
| Model | £Price (OTR) | CO2 g/km | VED band | Insurance group | £P11D value |
| Diesel | |||||
| 2.0D S | 26,865 | 149 | F | 20E | 26,680 |
| 2.0D SE | 29,070 | 156 | G | 21E | 28,850 |
| 2.0D SE NavPlus | 31,370 | 156 | G | 21E | 31,150 |
| Petrol | |||||
| 2.5i SE* | 29,075 | 196 | J | 19E | 28,575 |
| 2.5i SE Navplus* | 31,375 | 196 | J | 20E | 30,875 |
*with Lineartronic transmission as standard
