Contact: Elaine Griffin (905) 568-4959
For the 2005 model year, Subaru Canada offers customers the all-new, fourth-generation Legacy - the sleekest, safest and most powerful ever offered in North America. The all-new Legacy 2.5 GT Sedans and Wagons lead the line, powered by a new 250 horsepower turbocharged Subaru Boxer engine, a model Subaru expects will challenge high-performance touring sedans and wagons from renowned European brands.
Legacy 2.5i and Legacy 2.5i Limited, available in both sedan and wagon, are powered by a naturally aspirated, 168 horsepower, 2.5-litre boxer engine that provides enhanced performance for 2005. The Legacy 2.5i Limited offers an additional level of luxurious content.
With a distinctive fusion of style, performance and function, the 2005 Legacy delivers on the promise of a premium driving performance experience. Combining strong emotional appeal with intelligent engineering, the new-generation Legacy offers exceptional performance while remaining true to the core values that make Subaru a unique brand: a boxer engine, standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a functional and comfortable driver's environment, a high degree of safety and comfort for passengers and renowned durability and reliability.
In addition to superior performance, every new Legacy offers significantly enhanced safety and features when compared to the previous generation. Built on an advanced new version of the company's proven Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame safety structure, standard equipment on the 2005 Legacy includes standard side impact air bags, new side curtain air bags and new intelligent dual-stage deployment front air bags.
Subaru designed the fourth-generation Legacy to reflect its nimble, dynamic performance, particularly emphasizing the low centre of gravity that's a hallmark of all Subarus. The pronounced wedge body shape conveys a low and stable presence, accentuated by aerodynamic side ground effects.
Wheelbase of the slightly larger 2005 Legacy has been increased from 2650 mm (104.3 inches) to 2670 mm (105.1 inches) and overall length has been increased by 45 mm (just under two inches) for the wagons. The sedan's rear glass is slightly recessed for a distinct rear appearance as well as aerodynamic efficiency. The new Legacy design is not only sleeker to the eye, but in the wind tunnel, as well, where the sedan registers a coefficient of drag (Cd) of 0.29 and the wagon 0.32. A functional hood scoop supplies outside air to the engine-mounted intercooler on the turbo models, and chromed tailpipe tips extend from the dual-muffler exhaust system through bumper cutouts for a sporty flair.
The 2005 Legacy 2.5 GT is powered by an intercooled and turbocharged 2.5-litre 4-cylinder boxer engine that produces 250 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 250 lb-ft. of torque at 3,600 rpm. The engine shares architecture and technology with the engines used in other Subaru turbocharged performance models such as the Impreza WRX STi, but most key components - including the cylinder block, turbocharger and intercooler - were specifically designed for the Legacy 2.5 GT.
Active Valve Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing technology optimizes low and mid-range torque and high-end output, and the Legacy 2.5 GT engine is characterized by a wide torque curve for outstanding power at all speeds.
AVCS optimizes the engine's volumetric efficiency throughout the rev band by adjusting intake camshaft timing to employ the ideal intake and exhaust valve overlap under all engine operating conditions. AVCS can rotate the intake camshafts through a range of 35 degrees relative to the crankshaft. The Engine Control Module (ECM) regulates this movement, based on input from various sensors - airflow, engine coolant temperature, throttle position and camshaft position.
The ECM sends an electrical output signal to an oil control valve located at each intake camshaft sprocket. Oil pressure then varies within "advance" and "retard" chambers inside the AVCS actuator. The system references computer maps to respond to various driving conditions, providing ideal valve timing for stable engine idling and optimum torque across the engine speed range.
Further enhancing quick throttle response is an Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system that eliminates the physical linkage between the throttle pedal and the engine. An electronic sensor connected to the throttle sends a signal to the Engine Control Module (ECM) which automatically adjusts the engine's throttle plate. The ETC system provides more precise control and more flexible response than a conventional throttle and helps to optimize fuel consumption and emissions.
The Legacy 2.5i sedan and wagon are powered by a new, naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre, 4-cylinder, SOHC unit that produces 168 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 166 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.
The 2005 Legacy 2.5 GT models offer a choice between a smooth-shifting reinforced 5-speed manual transmission or an all-new 5-speed electronic direct control automatic transmission with Sportshift. The advanced new 5-speed automatic offers a higher degree of control in either automatic or manual mode. Using a lateral-g sensor and cornering logic, the transmission selects and holds the appropriate gear to enhance cornering performance. The transmission actively downshifts to maintain optimal traction and control on inclines, as well.
Using Sportshift, the driver can choose to shift 'manually' using the console shift handle or shift buttons on the steering wheel. When placed in 'Drive,' the shifter can be moved to the left for manual control, then toggled forward for upshifts and rearward for downshifts. The transmission even provides temporary access to manual mode in 'Drive' through the steering wheel shift buttons.
The transmission offers three shifting modes: Normal, Sport and Economy. In Sport mode, the transmission will hold lower gears longer for enhanced acceleration response.
Legacy 2.5i, powered by a naturally aspirated 4-cylinder boxer engine, offers a crisp 5-speed manual or an optional 4-speed electronic direct controlled automatic transmission with Sportshift.
A new, stiffer unitized body structure makes greater use of aluminum and high-strength steel, as well as advanced construction techniques including hydroforming and tailored-blank welding. Aluminum parts include the hood and bumper beams, and the rear gate on wagons. Using aluminum at the vehicle's extremes concentrates more mass near its centre of gravity for enhanced handling response.
Suspension, braking and steering are optimized for greater performance in the 2005 Legacy. The engine is mounted lower than in the previous generation to further lower the centre of gravity. The proven MacPherson type strut front suspension uses all new components, and a wider track and revised geometry significantly enhance handling and stability. The multilink rear suspension attaches to a new, hydroformed steel sub-frame for dramatically improved rigidity, and the roll centre has been lowered to enhance handling and stability.
The rack-and-pinion steering system is redesigned for quicker response, greater precision and improved feel. Legacy 2.5 GT models have a quicker steering ratio (15:1 compared to 16.5:1 in other Legacy models) and roll on standard 17 x 7-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 215/45 R17 Z-rated all-season tires. Other Legacy models are equipped with standard 16-inch alloy wheels. A 4-wheel, 4-channel, 4-sensor Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) is standard equipment on every 2005 Legacy. Legacy 2.5 GT and 2.5i Limited are fitted with larger front brake rotors. The 2.5 GT is equipped with larger rear brakes with ventilated discs.
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is the cornerstone of the entire Subaru family of vehicles - a total system that integrates a lightweight, horizontally opposed (boxer) engine and full-time All-Wheel Drive. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides superb balance thanks to the longitudinally mounted boxer engine and the straight, near-horizontal power flow from it through the transmission to the rear differential.
Subaru offers three different Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems in the 2005 Legacy lineup, each tailored to the type of transmission. With the 5-speed manual transmission, the system uses a viscous-coupling locking centre differential to distribute the power 50/50 front to rear. Slippage at either set of wheels will send more power to the set of wheels with more grip.
Legacy 2.5 GT models equipped with the optional 5-speed automatic transmission use a system called Variable Torque Distribution (VTD). A planetary centre differential works with an electronically controlled continuously variable hydraulic transfer clutch to manage power distribution. The system normally sends more power to the rear wheels to enhance handling agility, and it continuously adjusts the power distribution in response to driving and road conditions.
Legacy 2.5i and Legacy 2.5i Limited models offer an optional 4-speed automatic transmission with an AWD system that uses an electronically managed, continuously variable transfer clutch to actively control power distribution in response to driving conditions.
Subaru redesigned the roomy, well-appointed Legacy interior to enhance the driver's environment and passengers' comfort. The new unified design integrates the entire area from the instrument panel and large centre panel to the console box. Flush surface treatments, a soft foam upper dashboard and door trim, and aluminum side sill covers enhance both appearance and ambience.
Red instrument illumination highlights the sporty new four-dial instrument panel for naturally-aspirated models. The electroluminescent LED (light-emitting diode) gauge display on Legacy 2.5 GT has needle pointers that sweep to their maximum positions and back, as in the Impreza WRX STi.
The gauge panel is augmented in all models with a combination digital clock and trip computer, located in the centre of the dashboard. Some of its functions and displays include outside air temperature, fuel consumption, elapsed driving time, estimated fuel range, and a passenger airbag on/off indicator light.
The 2005 Legacy wagons are equipped with a new, one-stage 60/40 split rear seatback that provides a flat load floor without the need to lift the rear seat cushion forward. The sedan's trunk hinges are fully encased and do not intrude into the cargo area. Enhanced standard equipment includes remote keyless entry - a security system is standard on all models, and an engine immobilizer has been added to Legacy 2.5 GT and 2.5 GT Limited. The remote control includes a trunk release for sedans and a rear gate release for wagons.
The 2005 Legacy 2.5 GT comes equipped with premium standard features that include a dual-zone automatic climate control system, performance-design front seats with 4-stage heating and heated exterior mirrors. The MOMO®-designed 3-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel features integrated Sportshift controls when the car is equipped with the optional 5-speed automatic transmission.
Legacy 2.5 GT Limited adds a more luxurious interior featuring leather-trimmed upholstery, an 8-way power driver's seat and a 4-way power passenger seat. A glass power moonroof is standard on every Legacy 2.5 GT Limited and Legacy 2.5i Limited. The moonroof on the wagon models is a new-design dual-panel type that provides a single large opening when the tilt-up front section and retracting rear section are opened.
Outstanding occupant protection has been a hallmark of Subaru products. Now, the new Outback and Legacy have been awarded the best-ever five-star crashworthiness ratings in independent testing performed by the Australian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP). Crash test procedures include a frontal offset crash at 64km/h, a side impact test at 50km/h and a pedestrian test, which indicates likely injuries to a person hit by a vehicle travelling at 40km/h. Side and curtain airbag-equipped variants of Legacy (sold as Liberty in Australia) and Outback have achieved ANCAP's highest recorded five-star score - 35.52 points out of a possible 37.
ANCAP is backed by all the nation's motoring organizations and statutory transport bodies. The results mean that all Legacy and Outback models outrank key rivals in independent crashworthiness testing and prove their reputation for safety.
The 2005 Subaru Legacy demonstrates the brand's reputation for exemplary passive safety - the technology that can protect the occupants in the event of an accident. These new models are based on a new version of the Ring Shaped Reinforcement Frame structure at the heart of all Subarus.
The Ring Shaped Reinforcement Frame creates a series of "rings" around the passenger compartment, providing excellent protection in a variety of collision types. In the new Legacy, this unique Subaru structure has been refined and enhanced in the following ways:
- Front structure disperses collision energy in three directions
- New hydroformed centre pillars (B-pillar) improve side impact protection
- Lower side impact beams enhance protection by strengthening the lower portion of the doors
- Straighter, larger cross-section frame members to absorb and deflect impact forces
A new intelligent air bag system employs dual stage deployment for driver and front passenger air bags. A seat position sensor on the driver's seat track detects how far the driver is sitting from the air bag; in the event of close proximity, the system delays deployment of the air bag's second stage. The front passenger seat incorporates an occupant detection module that controls air bag deployment according to how much weight (if any) is resting on the passenger seat. Each Legacy is also fitted with standard front seat side impact air bags for thorax-area protection and side curtain air bags (full side coverage) for head protection.
Legacy and Outback for 2005 also include active front head restraints, to help reduce whiplash injury in a rear collision. A new safety brake pedal system and impact-absorbing driver's footrest helps reduce lower leg injury in a frontal collision.
Every Subaru is backed by a 5-year/100,000 km warranty covering major components and power train, as well as a 3-year/60,000 km "bumper-to-bumper," no deductible warranty. Subaru also provides a Rust Perforation Warranty, an Emission Control Warranty and North American roadside emergency service, offered in conjunction with the CAA and AAA, that is free of charge for the first three years of ownership.
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