The Subaru Impreza gets all the attention, but in the mid-noughties more mature enthusiasts, put off by that model’s hard-charging image, might have been tempted by the larger Legacy 3.0R Spec B, in saloon and estate forms, instead.
It was launched in 2004 but here we’re interested in the facelifted version of 2006, because there are more for sale and they were usefully improved. Interior quality took a big leap, the optional five-speed automatic gained paddle shifts and a new drive mode system, called SI-Drive, was introduced.
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The grille and head and tail-lights were smartened up while the car gained a more purposeful, sophisticated look thanks to delicately bulging wheel arches, an inoffensive roof-mounted spoiler and indicators integrated into the door mirrors. Alloys became smart 18in, 10-spoke affairs that still look good. The already crisp suspension was retuned (it features inverted Bilstein STI-style front struts) and the steering made a touch meatier.
What went unchanged was the standard-fit four-wheel-drive system with viscous centre differential and a limited-slip diff, and the 3.0-litre flat six continued to make a respectable 241bhp for 0-62mph in 6.7sec (autos take a yawning 1.2sec longer). A manual is clearly the pick but they’re rare. At least the auto’s paddle shifters help maximise what performance remains after the torque-converter ’box absorbed its share.
It’s a real driver’s performance car but, should you push things too hard in the corners, Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) will step in to brake individual wheels and straighten the car out. Switching it off gives the Legacy a greater rear-drive bias for a more laugh-out-loud experience.
The 3.0R Spec B is a Q-car, then, and no more so than in estate form when its huge boot provides an effective distraction to the main event – namely, surprising other people from the lights. Not that it or the saloon should stoop to such levels. Instead, it’s best treated as a civilised, all-weather cruiser with a touch of hooligan in reserve.
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I had a manual 2006 (pre Si)
I had a manual 2006 (pre Si) model which I loved and am occasionally still tempted to buy another as a beater.
Problems have been well-highlighted in the article, but become major considerations on a now elderly car. The subframe / engine drop required to change the spark-plugs was a killer for me. Tax was brutal. Engine was great but frequently enjoyed a very heavy drink. Y-section of the exhaust corrodes and replacements are quite pricey. Quite hard to find people with expertise to work on them too.
Having said that, on the right road with the H-6 singing away it was a properly fun car with serious grip.
Biggest problem with these is
Biggest problem with these is they are getting old now - and it's a shame Subaru don't make anything similar.
For something a bit newer - and I'm not a VAG fan particularly - I'd be tempted by a Skoda Superb 2.0 TSi 280. Similarly discreet, a sub 7 second 60 time - spotted one on Autotrader 2016, 22k miles for £ 18k, 4wd and FSH.
A blast from the past, from a
A blast from the past, from a time when Subaru sold appealing cars in the UK. I tried one at the time (a manual), and it didnt feel as quick as the numbers implied. Still a really nice car. If only such things were still available.