The Subaru Legacy IV (facelift, produced from 2007-2009) 2.5i AWD represents a significant iteration of Subaru’s mid-size sedan, positioned as a practical and capable all-weather vehicle for the North American market. This facelift, introduced after the initial launch of the fourth-generation Legacy, refined the styling and addressed some earlier criticisms. The 2.5i trim, powered by a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine producing 173 horsepower, served as the mainstay of the Legacy lineup, offering a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and standard features. It competed directly with vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Nissan Altima, but distinguished itself with its standard symmetrical all-wheel drive system.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Subaru |
| Model | Legacy |
| Generation | Legacy IV (facelift 2006) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5i (173 Hp) AWD |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 202 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 219 km/h (136.08 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 173 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 227 Nm @ 4400 rpm (167.43 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EJ253 |
| Engine displacement | 2457 cm3 (149.94 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 99.5 mm (3.92 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1455 kg (3207.73 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1930 kg (4254.92 lbs.) |
| Max load | 475 kg (1047.2 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 | 720 kg (1587.33 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 82 kg (180.78 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 | 5 gears, manual 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 | 7.0J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2.5i is the EJ253 engine, a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder. Subaru’s boxer engine design, with its pistons moving horizontally, provides a lower center of gravity, contributing to improved handling and stability. The EJ253 features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design and utilizes multi-port fuel injection. This engine produced 173 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 167 lb-ft of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine’s relatively simple design prioritized reliability and ease of maintenance. The 5-speed manual transmission was standard, offering direct control and a more engaging driving experience. While a 4-speed automatic transmission was available, it was often criticized for its sluggish shifts and tendency to hunt for gears.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5i with the manual transmission provided adequate acceleration, reaching 60 mph in around 9 seconds. The engine felt responsive enough for everyday driving, but lacked the punch of the more powerful turbocharged options available in the Legacy lineup. The automatic transmission, however, noticeably dulled performance. The all-wheel drive system provided excellent traction in all weather conditions, a key selling point for Subaru. Handling was predictable and stable, though not particularly sporty. The Legacy prioritized comfort and practicality over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5i 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, like the Limited, added features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. Optional extras included a navigation system and premium sound system. The interior design was functional and straightforward, with a focus on ergonomics and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Legacy IV utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The 2.5i models were equipped with ventilated front disc brakes and solid rear disc brakes. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over aggressive cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.5i AWD was generally well-received by critics as a practical and reliable all-weather sedan. However, the automatic transmission was a common point of criticism, with reviewers noting its slow response and inefficient operation. Compared to the turbocharged 2.5 GT models, the 2.5i offered significantly less performance but boasted better fuel economy. The 2.5i was also more affordable than the GT, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Fuel economy averaged around 27.7 mpg combined, which was competitive for its class.
Legacy
The EJ253 engine, while not known for being particularly exciting, proved to be remarkably durable and reliable. Many 2007-2009 Legacy 2.5i models continue to be on the road today, a testament to Subaru’s engineering. The symmetrical all-wheel drive system remains a hallmark of the Subaru brand and continues to be a popular feature among drivers in regions with inclement weather. On the used car market, these Legacys are often sought after for their affordability, practicality, and reputation for reliability, making them a sensible choice for those seeking a dependable and capable mid-size sedan.
