The Subaru Legacy IV (facelift, produced from 2006 to 2007) 2.0R with the automatic transmission represents a significant iteration of Subaru’s mid-size sedan, positioned as a comfortable and capable all-weather vehicle for the North American market. This variant, equipped with the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter boxer engine producing 165 horsepower, aimed to balance performance with fuel efficiency and ease of use, appealing to a broader customer base than the more performance-oriented turbocharged models. It sat in the mid-range of the Legacy lineup, offering more features and power than the base models but remaining more accessible than the higher-spec turbocharged 2.5 GT variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Subaru |
| Model | Legacy |
| Generation | Legacy IV (facelift 2006) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0R (165 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg, 23.7 UK mpg, 8.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 202 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 209 km/h (129.87 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp, 113 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm, 128.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 165 Hp @ 6800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 187 Nm @ 3200 rpm (137.92 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EJ204 |
| Engine displacement | 1994 cm3 (121.68 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1460 kg (3218.75 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1930 kg (4254.92 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 433 l (15.29 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 725 kg (1598.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4730 mm (186.22 in.) |
| Width | 1730 mm (68.11 in.) |
| Height | 1425 mm (56.1 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2006-2007 Legacy 2.0R Automatic is the EJ204 engine, a 1994cc (121.68 cubic inches) naturally aspirated 2.0-liter boxer-four. Subaru’s horizontally opposed “boxer” configuration is renowned for its inherent balance, reducing vibrations and contributing to a smoother driving experience. The EJ204 utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design per cylinder bank, operating with four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine produces 165 horsepower at 6800 rpm and 187 Nm (137.92 lb-ft) of torque at 3200 rpm. This engine is paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth and convenient operation. While not offering the quickest acceleration, the transmission provides adequate performance for everyday driving. The automatic transmission was chosen to appeal to buyers prioritizing comfort and ease of use over sporty driving dynamics.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0R Automatic Legacy delivers a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.8 seconds, which is adequate for merging onto highways and general commuting. The automatic transmission, while smooth, doesn’t offer the responsiveness of a manual gearbox or more modern automatic transmissions with additional gears. Power delivery is linear, with the engine providing sufficient torque for everyday driving situations. The symmetrical all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various weather conditions, a hallmark of Subaru vehicles. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and providing a stable ride. Compared to the turbocharged 2.5 GT models, the 2.0R Automatic feels less powerful and less engaging to drive, but it offers better fuel economy and a lower price point.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0R Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with auxiliary input, and keyless entry. Higher trim levels offered options like a sunroof, leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a premium sound system. Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS) and front airbags. The interior design was functional and well-built, with a focus on practicality and durability. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, with clearly labeled controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Legacy IV utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a coil spring rear suspension. The chassis was designed to provide a balance between ride comfort and handling stability. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS was standard, enhancing braking performance and control in slippery conditions. The all-wheel-drive system distributes power to all four wheels, providing enhanced traction and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2006-2007 Subaru Legacy 2.0R Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and standard all-wheel drive. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the power of the turbocharged models and that the four-speed automatic transmission felt dated compared to competitors offering five or six-speed automatics. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Compared to the 2.5 GT, the 2.0R Automatic offered a more affordable entry point into the Legacy lineup, appealing to buyers who prioritized value and practicality over performance. The 2.0R also offered better fuel economy than the more powerful turbocharged variants.
Legacy
The EJ204 engine, while generally reliable, is known to be susceptible to head gasket issues, a common problem with earlier Subaru engines. Regular maintenance, including timely coolant changes, is crucial to prevent this issue. The four-speed automatic transmission is also relatively reliable, but it may exhibit some wear and tear over time. Today, the 2006-2007 Legacy 2.0R Automatic can be found on the used car market at affordable prices. It remains a viable option for buyers seeking a reliable and capable all-weather sedan, particularly in regions with harsh winters. Its simplicity and relatively low maintenance costs make it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers.
