MOTORING NEWS - Subaru's Legacy is a vehicle that I have been involved with since its very first launch in South Africa in 1994.
One of the biggest Land Rover Dealers in Johannesburg landed the franchise and my company was asked to handle all details - direct marketing, launch activities, advertising and press relations.
So it quickly became much more than a car to us - and the press was unanimously impressed with its all-wheel drive function, willing performance and the way it stepped through a challenging introductory drive north of Johannesburg. One journalist knew the brand from growing up in Lebanon. He never let the keys go for the entire launch, but his off-tar expertise meant everybody was cheering him on. Ah - for the good old days before everybody in boots was a frustrated rally driver!
So, the new Legacy brought a few sentimental moments when I was given the key. But there the comparisons stopped.
The Subaru has always been an exceptional car for performance and gutsiness. Lately there were wishes expressed that the car should be, well, just a little um... prettier, with a touch of glamour.
Regarding the fresh and dynamic look of the new model, these wishes were made real and the new car is pretty stunning to look at.
At a first, second and third look, one can only agree.
Under the aluminium bonnet is a most refined and efficient version of the 3,6-litre H6 Boxer engine yet, feeding 191kW and 350Nm to Subaru's acclaimed Lineartronic CVT, which now features an updated shift control system.
The best hasn't needed change - the most characteristic Subaru feature is still its symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive, which distributes power front and back via an electronically-controlled centre differential, ensuring each wheel gets what it needs, when it needs it.
Legacy is popular with drivers who appreciate brawn and brain and AWD translates into a real-world dynamic advantage.
Even more important, is that it all happens pretty effortlessly - traction and road holding ability in wet, sandy or gritty conditions.
This sixth generation was launched 25 years after the first to South Africa and Subaru took a long, hard look at the marketplace and addressed the two things the market wanted.
Legacy is now hawkishly handsome and elegant with a profile, which leaves no doubt as to its sporty intent. The windscreen is steeply raked and the bold grille and boot lid has a subtle kick which also enhances aerodynamic efficiency.
Inside, the cabin is big but not impersonal with a long list of standard features - mostly placed there to meet the driver's needs. The driver centric approach doesn't neglect others in the car. More hip and shoulder room is due to a 20mm increase in width, and the boot capacity has increased thanks to a slightly longer overhang.
Practicality improves as the rear seat now folds 60:40.
Standard features include a sunroof and reverse camera, dual-zone climate control and comprehensive steering wheel controls. A new 6,2" touch screen with interface acts as a command centre for audio, telephony, satellite navigation and vehicle-related settings and systems.
The Subaru Legacy has a more rigid superstructure, which is what adds a sublime edge to the actual driving experience. Steering, suspension and brakes all operate with precision and accuracy thanks to carefully considered placement of special steels. This also lowers noise levels and unwanted vibrations.
The torsionally stiffer body also means more safety and Legacy has achieved 5-star ratings in ANCAP in Australian testing as well as JNCAP Japan New Car Assessment Programme for 2014 to 2015.
Pricing for the Legacy 3.6R-S is R529 000 including a three year or 75 000km full maintenance plan and a three year or 100 000km factory warranty. Overall consumption is said to be 9,9-litres per 100km, making the Legacy an attractive proposition, all considered.
Still a bit conservative, but the car's roof line is more dynamic and sporty. Photo: Anica Kruger
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