The Subaru Legacy III (BE/BH) 2.5, produced between 1998 and 2001, represented a significant evolution of Subaru’s mid-size sedan. This generation, built on the BE/BH platform, aimed to blend practicality, safety, and Subaru’s signature symmetrical all-wheel drive system. The 2.5-liter variant, generating 156 horsepower, occupied a middle ground in the Legacy III lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It was positioned above the base 2.2-liter models and below the more powerful turbocharged options, appealing to buyers seeking a comfortable and capable family sedan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Subaru |
| Model | Legacy |
| Generation | Legacy III (BE,BH) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 (156 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 1998 |
| End of production | 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.9 l/100 km (18.2 US mpg, 21.9 UK mpg, 7.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg, 30.4 UK mpg, 10.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 221 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp, 108.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm, 154.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 223 Nm @ 3600 rpm (164.48 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EJ25 |
| 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 | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1440 kg (3174.66 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1910 kg (4210.83 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 455 l (16.07 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Length | 4605 mm (181.3 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1415 mm (55.71 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160-155 mm (6.3 – 6.1 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 | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| 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 | 205/50 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Legacy III 2.5 was the EJ25 engine, a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated boxer-four. Subaru’s horizontally opposed “boxer” configuration offered inherent balance, reducing vibrations and contributing to a smoother driving experience. The EJ25 featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design per cylinder bank, operating four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. This engine produced 156 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 164.48 lb-ft of torque at 3600 rpm. The engine was paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, designed to provide smooth and convenient shifting. This transmission was not known for its sportiness, prioritizing comfort and ease of use over aggressive gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5-liter automatic Legacy offered a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, with a 0-60 mph time of around 9.6 seconds. However, it wasn’t particularly quick compared to manual transmission versions or the turbocharged models. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and smooth cruising, rather than spirited performance. The all-wheel drive system provided excellent traction in various weather conditions, enhancing stability and confidence. The boxer engine’s low center of gravity contributed to balanced handling, although the suspension was tuned more for comfort than outright sportiness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5-liter automatic Legacy typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and an AM/FM stereo. Higher trim levels offered options such as a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, leather upholstery, and alloy wheels. Interior materials were generally durable and functional, reflecting the car’s focus on practicality. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, with clearly labeled controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Legacy III utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This setup provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The car featured ventilated disc brakes in the front and solid disc brakes in the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. Steering was rack-and-pinion with hydraulic power assistance, providing a responsive and easy-to-use steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Legacy III 2.5 Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and reliable family sedan. It offered a compelling combination of features, safety, and all-wheel drive capability. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish and that the engine lacked the punch of the turbocharged options. Fuel economy was average for its class, with combined figures around 25.3 US mpg. Compared to the 2.2-liter models, the 2.5 offered a noticeable improvement in performance. Compared to the turbocharged variants, it prioritized affordability and fuel efficiency over outright speed.
Legacy
The EJ25 engine, in its various iterations, proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant. While not immune to issues like head gasket failures (a common concern with early EJ series engines), the EJ25 in the Legacy III generally held up well over time with proper maintenance. Today, the Legacy III 2.5 Automatic remains a relatively affordable and practical used car option. Its all-wheel drive system and reputation for reliability make it a popular choice for buyers in regions with inclement weather. Parts availability is generally good, and the car’s relatively simple mechanical design makes it accessible to DIY mechanics.
