The Subaru Legacy 3.6R (facelift, 2012-2014) represented the top-tier trim level of the fifth-generation Legacy sedan in the North American market. Introduced as part of a mid-cycle refresh, this variant combined a 256-horsepower 3.6-liter boxer engine with a five-speed automatic transmission, offering a blend of performance, all-weather capability through Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive, and a comfortable driving experience. It competed directly with premium mid-size sedans such as the Toyota Camry XLE, Honda Accord V6, and Ford Fusion Titanium.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Subaru |
| Model | Legacy |
| Generation | Legacy V (facelift 2012) |
| Type | 3.6R (256 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13 l/100 km (18.1 US mpg, 21.7 UK mpg, 7.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg, 24.1 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.2 kg/Hp, 161.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 211.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 256 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 335 Nm @ 4400 rpm (247.08 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EZ36D |
| Engine displacement | 3629 cm3 (221.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 91 mm (3.58 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1586 kg (3496.53 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 416 l (14.69 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4745 mm (186.81 in.) |
| Width | 1821 mm (71.69 in.) |
| Height | 1506 mm (59.29 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2751 mm (108.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Rear track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| 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 | 215/50 R17 90V |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 3.6R’s powertrain centered around the EZ36D, a 3.6-liter horizontally-opposed (boxer) six-cylinder engine. Subaru’s boxer design, with its pistons moving horizontally, is renowned for its inherent balance, reducing vibrations and contributing to a smoother driving experience. The EZ36D featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder and utilized multi-port fuel injection for precise fuel delivery. This engine generated 256 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 247 lb-ft of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine was paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, calibrated to complement the engine’s power characteristics and the vehicle’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system. While not the most advanced transmission in terms of gear count, it offered smooth and dependable shifting.
Driving Characteristics
Compared to the base 2.5-liter Legacy models, the 3.6R delivered a significantly more responsive driving experience. The increased horsepower and torque enabled quicker acceleration and more confident overtaking. The automatic transmission, while smooth, prioritized comfort and efficiency over sporty responsiveness. Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system provided exceptional traction in various weather conditions, a defining characteristic of the brand. The gear ratios were geared towards everyday usability, providing sufficient power for most driving scenarios, though it lacked the immediacy of the available six-speed manual transmission. The boxer engine’s low center of gravity contributed to balanced handling, although the suspension tuning favored ride comfort over aggressive cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.6R came equipped with a comprehensive set of standard features. The interior boasted leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a premium audio system. Standard technology included a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a multi-function steering wheel. Optional packages often included a power sunroof, a navigation system, and a high-end Harman Kardon audio system. The interior design was functional and well-constructed, though it didn’t quite reach the luxury levels of some competitors. The 2012 facelift brought minor interior refinements, including updated trim materials and improved graphics for the infotainment system.
Chassis & Braking
The Legacy 3.6R featured an independent McPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, complemented by standard anti-lock brakes (ABS). The suspension was tuned for ride comfort, resulting in a softer feel compared to sport-tuned sedans. Stabilizer bars were incorporated front and rear to minimize body roll during cornering. The all-wheel drive system, integral to the Legacy’s chassis, distributed power to all four wheels, enhancing traction and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
Automotive critics generally lauded the Legacy 3.6R for its standard all-wheel drive, spacious interior, and comfortable ride quality. However, the automatic transmission occasionally drew criticism for its lack of sportiness and limited number of gears. Fuel economy, averaging 20.1 US mpg combined, was considered average for the segment. Compared to the 2.5i models, the 3.6R offered a substantial performance boost, but at a higher price. The 3.6R was positioned as a more premium offering, appealing to buyers who valued performance and all-weather capability over maximizing fuel efficiency. When compared to V6-powered rivals like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, the Legacy provided a distinctive driving experience thanks to its boxer engine and standard all-wheel drive.
Legacy
The EZ36D engine, while generally reliable, benefits from consistent maintenance, particularly regular oil changes. Some owners have reported instances of head gasket leaks, a concern historically associated with Subaru boxer engines, although the EZ36D is considered a more durable iteration. The five-speed automatic transmission has proven to be relatively robust, but, like all automatics, requires periodic fluid changes. In the used car market, the 2012-2014 Legacy 3.6R maintains reasonable resale value, especially for well-maintained examples with documented service records and lower mileage. Its combination of performance, all-wheel drive, and practicality continues to attract buyers seeking a capable and dependable mid-size sedan.
