No UK launch for new Subaru Legacy saloon

The all-new Subaru Legacy saloon has been revealed at the Chicago motor show, but UK bosses have confirmed it will be denied to UK buyers. However, a production version of the Subaru Levorg Tourer concept will make it to these shores.

Subaru says the sixth generation Legacy promises improved ride, safety and practicality with a more “emotional appeal”. It has “sportier and more refined” styling, adopting Subaru’s new face with a hexagonal grille and 'hawk-eye' headlights.

The cabin is claimed to be more comfortable, with improved visibility, space and safety credentials. Subaru says there is a minimal increase in the Legacy’s external dimensions, but thinner doors and a relocated A-pillars has allowed an improvement in shoulder, elbow, waist and leg room.

The body and suspension mountings are more rigid to suppress roll and reduced friction in the shock absorbers, coupled to a new rear subframe and tweaks to the front suspension struts, takes steering stability and ride quality to that of the class above, says Subaru.

Power comes from a revised 175bhp version of the FB25 boxer engine used in the current Legacy and Subaru Forester. Modifications to the intake, exhaust and combustion systems have resulted in a torque increase to 174lb ft. 

A 3.6-litre six-cylinder boxer engine is also offered, which develops 256bhp and 247lb ft. Both engines are mated to Lineartronic CVT gearbox.