Subaru Legacy
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Has anyone test driven the new Legacy yet? I've read lots of good things about it. The exterior looks pretty good in an understated kind of way (i.e. a bit like a SAAB
) and the interior not bad as well especially that McIntosh sound system! Woo! -
I heard you need to make an appointment to test drive the car, and then, subject to approval!
It looks smaller than the previous Legacy, and I don't like the name. It sounds like "you go and die" in Hokkien!
I am really hoping Saab will NOT use the Legacy and rebadge it as the next 95. Pengsan!!!
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Really? I only heard that they don't allow test drives for the WRX. If really have this kind of attitude, forget it!
Unfortunately, it looks like Saab owners will have to get used to driving cars based on Subarus or other platforms. Luckily the 9-3ss is completely unlike the Vectra, but the same can't be said for the 9-2 and the WRX -
I've driven the new Legacy 2.0i when I was shopping for a new car, and I can tell you it's fab!
Before testing the Legacy, I drove the Mazda6 and Honda Accord (JDM model, aka Acura in the US).
Mazda6:----------------------------------------------------------------------That's all I have to say - nothing
Accord: tractable 150bhp I-VTEC, xenon lights, nice driving position. The let-down to me was that with doors closed, you can still see the painted metal of the window frame - cheap looking in my opinion.
Legacy: nicest sounding engine, best driving position, biggest boot, frameless windows, classy 7-speaker sound system, most ergonomic interior/fascia design, sharp handling. BUT... brakes only so-so, 138bhp fed thru 4-wheels = underpower + most inefficient drive configuration, A/T is only a 4-shifter.
SAAB 9-3SS: I bought it cos when I open the bonnet, I don't have to look for a pesky hot metal piece to prop it up. -
Agreed, if you buy a Legacy better go for the 2.0GT.
Mazda6... duh.... I tested it as well, was very keen on it but let down by the engine and the interior started looking very plasticky from close range.
I was also looking at the Mondeo but went to the Saab showroom first and the shopping stopped there
(Yes, I know they're in different price ranges, I was actually looking for something more mid-range but after testing the SS I just had to go for it). Recently I tested a friend's Mondeo to see what I might have missed. Handling, stability, solidness and refinement at speed all very good, but the engine wasn't quite up to hauling it around. No regrets going for the Saab.
In case anybody wondering why I didn't consider the 318, A4, S60 etc: knocked out in Round 1 by the price differential!