The Subaru Legacy VII 2.4 Turbo, produced from July 2019 to May 2022, represents a significant iteration of Subaru’s mid-size sedan. This variant, equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine and a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), occupied the top performance tier within the seventh-generation Legacy (B14) lineup. Positioned as the flagship model, it catered to buyers seeking a blend of all-weather capability, refined comfort, and spirited performance. The Legacy VII, built on the Subaru Global Platform, aimed to improve upon its predecessor in terms of safety, ride quality, and interior refinement, while maintaining the brand’s hallmark symmetrical all-wheel drive system.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Subaru |
| Model | Legacy |
| Generation | Legacy VII |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 Turbo (260 Hp) AWD Lineartronic |
| Start of production | July, 2019 |
| End of production | May, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.6 kg/Hp, 151.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 219.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 260 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 109.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 376 Nm @ 2000-4800 rpm (277.32 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | FA24F |
| Engine displacement | 2384 cm3 (145.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-scroll turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.7 l (9.19 US qt | 7.65 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1714-1719 kg (3778.72 – 3789.75 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 428 l (15.11 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4840 mm (190.55 in.) |
| Width | 1840 mm (72.44 in.) |
| Height | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1580 mm (62.2 in.) |
| Rear track | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1010 mm (39.76 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1080 mm (42.52 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission Lineartronic CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 315 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 300 mm |
| Tires size | 225/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Legacy 2.4 Turbo lies the FA24F engine, a 2.4-liter direct-injection, turbocharged boxer-four. Subaru’s boxer configuration, with its horizontally opposed pistons, contributes to a low center of gravity, enhancing stability and handling. The FA24F benefits from a single, twin-scroll turbocharger with an integrated intercooler, delivering 260 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 277 lb-ft of torque between 2000 and 4800 rpm. Direct injection optimizes combustion efficiency and responsiveness. The engine utilizes a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust valves, further refining performance and fuel economy. This engine is a significant upgrade from the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine offered in lower trims.
The Lineartronic CVT, Subaru’s implementation of a continuously variable transmission, is paired with the FA24F. Unlike traditional stepped automatic transmissions, the Lineartronic CVT offers a virtually infinite number of gear ratios, allowing the engine to operate at its most efficient point. While CVTs sometimes receive criticism for their driving feel, Subaru’s version incorporates simulated “shifts” to provide a more familiar experience. The CVT is coupled with Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system, distributing power to all four wheels for enhanced traction and stability in various conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4 Turbo variant delivers a noticeably more engaging driving experience than lower-trim Legacy models. The readily available torque from the turbocharged engine provides strong acceleration in everyday driving situations, and the CVT effectively manages power delivery. While not a sports sedan in the traditional sense, the Legacy 2.4 Turbo offers confident passing power and a composed feel on the highway. The CVT, while smooth, can sometimes feel less connected than a traditional automatic, but paddle shifters allow for some degree of manual control. The all-wheel drive system inspires confidence in inclement weather, providing excellent grip and stability. Compared to the base engine, the 2.4 Turbo offers a substantial performance increase, making it the preferred choice for drivers prioritizing responsiveness and capability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.4 Turbo trim typically came standard with a comprehensive suite of features, including leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a premium audio system, and Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology. EyeSight includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras often included a power moonroof, navigation system, and upgraded interior trim. The interior design emphasized comfort and functionality, with a user-friendly infotainment system and ample passenger space.
Chassis & Braking
The Legacy VII utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The braking system is augmented by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brake-force distribution. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort and everyday usability, rather than outright sportiness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Legacy 2.4 Turbo was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its performance, all-wheel drive system, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the CVT could feel somewhat detached, and the fuel economy, while reasonable, wasn’t class-leading. Compared to competitors like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, the Legacy offered a unique combination of standard all-wheel drive and a turbocharged engine. The 2.4 Turbo trim represented a significant price premium over lower trims, but it offered a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a well-equipped and capable mid-size sedan.
Legacy
The FA24F engine and Lineartronic CVT pairing have proven to be relatively reliable in the long term, with few widespread issues reported. The Legacy VII 2.4 Turbo holds its value reasonably well in the used car market, particularly examples with low mileage and a well-maintained service history. Its combination of performance, all-weather capability, and practicality continues to appeal to a wide range of buyers. The seventh-generation Legacy, and particularly the 2.4 Turbo variant, represents a refined and capable offering in the mid-size sedan segment, solidifying Subaru’s reputation for building durable and dependable vehicles.
