The Subaru Legacy V 2.0i, equipped with a 150 horsepower engine and Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) paired with all-wheel drive, was a key offering in Subaru’s lineup from 2009 to 2012. Representing the fifth generation of the Legacy (introduced globally in 2009, and in North America as a 2010 model), this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency with Subaru’s renowned symmetrical all-wheel drive system. It occupied a mid-range position within the Legacy V series, slotting between the base 2.5i models and the more performance-oriented 2.5GT variants. The Legacy V, built on the Subaru’s ‘J’ platform, was designed to offer a more refined and spacious experience than its predecessors, targeting families and drivers seeking a comfortable and reliable sedan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Subaru |
| Model | Legacy |
| Generation | Legacy V |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i (150 Hp) AWD Lineartronic |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 185 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 203 km/h (126.14 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 196 Nm @ 3000 rpm (144.56 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EJ20 |
| Engine displacement | 1994 cm3 (121.68 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| 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 capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1535 kg (3384.1 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2020 kg (4453.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 485 kg (1069.24 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 486 l (17.16 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 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 | 4735 mm (186.42 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Height | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission Lineartronic |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16H |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2.0i Legacy V is the EJ20 engine, a 1994cc naturally aspirated, horizontally-opposed (boxer) four-cylinder. Subaru’s boxer engine design, with its pistons moving horizontally, contributes to a lower center of gravity, enhancing stability and handling. The EJ20 utilizes multi-point fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. This configuration allows for efficient combustion and reasonable power output. The engine produces 150 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 196 Nm (144.56 lb-ft) of torque at 3000 rpm. Paired with this engine is Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT, a continuously variable transmission designed to maximize fuel efficiency. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, the Lineartronic CVT offers a virtually infinite number of ratios, allowing the engine to operate at its most efficient point. The Lineartronic transmission in the Legacy V was tuned for smooth operation and fuel economy, rather than aggressive acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0i Lineartronic Legacy V delivers a comfortable and predictable driving experience. The CVT, while contributing to fuel efficiency, does result in a different driving feel compared to a traditional automatic or manual transmission. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 10.5 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 11.1 seconds, making it adequate for everyday driving but not particularly sporty. The CVT tends to hold the engine at a consistent RPM during acceleration, which can sometimes feel disconnected from the vehicle’s speed. Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system provides excellent traction in various weather conditions, enhancing stability and confidence. Compared to the 2.5i models, the 2.0i offers slightly less power but improved fuel economy. The higher-output 2.5GT variants, with their turbocharged engines, provide significantly more performance but at the cost of fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0i trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with auxiliary input, and keyless entry. Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered options like a sunroof, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium audio system, and a navigation system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with optional leather available. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Legacy V 2.0i utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a double-wishbone suspension in the rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The suspension was tuned to balance comfort and handling, offering a compliant ride over uneven surfaces while maintaining reasonable body control during cornering. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0i Lineartronic Legacy V was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive sedan. However, some reviewers noted that the CVT transmission could feel less engaging than traditional automatics. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures around 29.4 US mpg. Compared to competitors like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, the Legacy V offered standard all-wheel drive, a unique selling point. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the CVT transmission over the long term.
Legacy
The Subaru Legacy V 2.0i Lineartronic remains a relatively common sight on used car lots. The EJ20 engine, while not known for being exceptionally powerful, is generally considered reliable with proper maintenance. The Lineartronic CVT, however, requires regular fluid changes to ensure longevity. The combination of all-wheel drive, reasonable fuel economy, and a comfortable ride makes it a practical choice for buyers seeking a dependable and capable sedan. Its continued presence in the used car market is a testament to Subaru’s reputation for building durable and long-lasting vehicles.
