2018 Subaru Legacy Review

Detailed Review

The first version of the Subaru Legacy designated BC/BF/BJ launched its production in 1989 and lasted until 1992. In 1993 the Legacy entered its second generation dubbed BD/BG/BK and was manufactured until 1997. From 1998 to 2002 the third generation of the Legacy designated as BE/BH was in production. In 2003, the fourth generation of the Legacy commenced its production that continued up to 2008. It was codenamed BL/BP. The fifth generation of the Subaru Legacy codenamed BM/BR was manufactured from 2009 to 2014.

The Legacy entered its sixth generation in 2014, known as BN/BS, and lasted in production until 2020. The Subaru Legacy is now in its seventh generation known as BW/BT. The 2018 Subaru Legacy is available with two engines, a 2.5 L FB25 (Petrol), and a 3.6 L EZ36D (Petrol), both of which are coupled to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

2018 Subaru Legacy grades

1. Subaru Legacy 2.5i- This grade comes with Auto-dimming mirrors, a 4-wheel disc, an anti-lock braking system, an AM/FM Radio, and Bluetooth connectivity.
2. Subaru Legacy 2.5i Premium- This grade features electronic brakeforce distribution, climate control, cargo hooks, and cruise control.
3. Subaru Legacy 2.5i Sport- This grade has a central door lock, power windows, a remote engine starter, a 12-volt power output, traction control, and power mirrors.
4. Subaru Legacy 2.5i Limited- This grade is fitted with a voice recognition system, traction control, STI pedal pad set, dusk sensor, and LED daytime running lights.
5. Subaru Legacy 3.6R Limited- This grade boasts a theft deterrent system, vehicle dynamic control, a CD player, a digital radio with a color touch screen, four speakers, and remote audio controls.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2018 Subaru Legacy prioritizes functionality over design. Its infotainment system has been updated and now includes Apple Car Play and Android Auto as standard features.

The heated and power-adjustable seats in the first row are really comfy. The headroom and legroom are sufficient. The second row is also impressive as it offers plenty of knee room although taller passengers might find the headroom unsatisfactory.

Cabin Storage

The 2018 Subaru Legacy includes multiple storage compartments intended to better the comfort of occupants. The first row has two cupholders, a center console, a glovebox compartment, and door panel storage. The second row is fitted with door pockets, two cupholders, and jacket pockets.

Boot Space

The 2018 Subaru Legacy has 15 cubic feet of space which is ample to haul small and medium-sized goods. If more space is required, the rear seats can be retracted.

Exterior

The 2018 Subaru Legacy has a refined and stunning exterior design. The front end is denoted by a nicely curved grille furnished with some chrome embellishments as the prominent Subaru emblem is adorned on it to stamp its supremacy anywhere it traverses. LED daytime running lights and the headlights lend the Legacy an upscale look. The lower fascia incorporates fog lights and air vents.

The side profile of the Legacy is exceedingly conservative, with barely discernable contours. The door handles and side mirror caps are body-colored. The rear end has tail lights and turn signals. Depending on the owner’s preference, a lip spoiler can be added to the trunk to lend it an aggressive and sporty appearance.

2018 Subaru Legacy Safety Features

The 2018 Subaru Legacy features traction control, stability control, an anti-locking braking system, multiple airbags, and electronic brake force distribution. It also incorporates Starlink Safety Plus telematics system which includes emergency assistance and automatic collision notification.

2018 Subaru Legacy Fuel Consumption

2018 Subaru Legacy 2.5 L petrol engine consumption- 10.4 km/l on average

2018 Subaru Legacy 3.6 L petrol engine consumption- 8.2 km/l on average

2018 Subaru Legacy Acceleration

2018 Subaru Legacy 2.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 9.5 secs

2018 Subaru Legacy 3.6 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 7.0 secs

The 2018 Subaru Legacy Fuel Tank Capacity: 70 liters

Ground Clearance

The 2018 Subaru Legacy has a ground clearance of 5.9 inches which is below the required standard of 6.5 on Kenyan roads.

Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.

Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

Spare Parts and Availability

Service parts are available and fairly priced in Kenya. Body parts on the other hand are expensive and mostly available from Subaru Kenya.

Stability And Handling

The 2018 Subaru Legacy has undergone several improvements designed to make the vehicle more fun to drive. The brake pedal has been calibrated for better feel, the steering has been re-tuned for better response, and the suspension system has been revised for less impact harshness and body roll. The manufacturers have also tried to reduce wind and powertrain noise.

The all-wheel drive technology distinguishes it from its competitors and facilitates it in remaining composed when navigating rough surfaces. The engine works in tandem with the transmission system to deliver a smooth start and good acceleration. Some of the technologies incorporated in the Subaru Legacy to improve its stability include Traction control and electronic brake force distribution.

Reliability

The 2018 Subaru Legacy is a reliable car. Because of its low ground clearance, it is advisable not to drive on off-road terrains as its body components could be damaged. Excessive oil consumption and leaky head gaskets are the most common problems reported in the Legacy. Regular service and maintenance are required to avoid experiencing such troubles.

Refer to the Subaru Legacy buyer guide for a thorough reliability report. We also urge that you always follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.

Resale Value: Good

Subaru Legacy Competitors:  Audi A4, VW Passat, Toyota Mark X, Nissan Teana, Mercedes C Class, BMW 3 Series, and Mazda Atenza.

What we like about the 2018 Subaru Legacy

Standard all-wheel drive system

Excellent outward visibility

High-tech safety features

Easy-to-use infotainment system

What we don’t

Engines down on power compared to competitors

Low ground clearance

Conclusion

The 2018 Subaru Legacy comes standard with an all-wheel drive system that makes it ready to be used no matter the weather conditions. People with families are drawn to its highly-rated safety features. For performance admirers, the Subaru Legacy comes with a 3.6 L engine with an incredibly rapid acceleration. Its high purchase price as well as service and maintenance limits individuals with a tight budget from owning it.