Subaru Announces U.S. Bound Legacy to Sport 250-HP

Subaru Goes with Four-Cylinder Rather than Six for Top Engine

Theres much to be said about Subarus new Legacy. The car that is finally a real head-turner is also a real turning point for the brands name and image.

Throughout the rally world, in particular much of Asia and all of Europe, Subaru is famous for its WRX and WRX STi models, but Americans are just getting minds around such powerful engines stuffed inside such small sedans.

This wave has garnered Subaru a performance-oriented image matched by quality, durability and the unshakable traction of the brands all-wheel drive systems. So what could be next?

The 2004 Legacy brings new light to the company name adding unprecedented styling, luxury and refinement to the mix. Subaru will bring the Legacy to the U.S. this year, having recently made its debut at the Detroit auto show.

While many had previously seen photos of the new model, being that Subaru had already allowed U.S. journalists to test it and publish their experiences, there were a few unknowns left to be announced at this weeks show.

First and foremost, what engines would be coming across the Pacific? Unfortunately the ultra-hot B4 model wont be arriving on our shores. This high-output model uses a turbocharged horizontally-opposed 2.0-liter four is simply too much at 280 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque, despite some of Subarus competitors offering nearly as much power and more torque in their midsize sedans.

Nevertheless our top-of-the-line model will be called the 2.5 GT, a nameplate thats stuck with Subarus performance model for years now. This version of the Legacy will get a turbocharged 2.5 liter boxer engine that yields 250 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque, and it features Subarus AVCS variable timing. It can be had with a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission, the latter with Sportshift manual functionality.

Unfortunately Subaru has yet to announce any hard performance figures but they should be good. Rather than having a high displacement 6-cylinder as the top engine choice, the Japanese brands economical and smooth running four should impress and surprise many. U.S. deliveries will begin spring, 2004.