Blower Returns to Subaru’s Boxer Powertrain
A collective ‘Hurrah’ has gone up among Subaru sporting saloon fans with the reintroduction of a forced induction Boxer motor for its Legacy model.
The Subaru Legacy XT echoes the great rally sport racing models the brand competed for more than two decades until the financial crisis of 2008. Now the brand returns with its first turbo-charged engine since 2012 in the shape of the seventh generation Legacy XT.
This model unveiled at the 2019 Chicago Auto Show boasts a 260 hp 2.4-liter turbo-charged direct-injection version of Subaru’s signature Boxer four-cylinder horizontally opposed engine. Maximum power is produced at 5,600 rpm and while 277 lb-ft of torque is spread from 2,000 rpm to 4,800 rpm. It’s coupled to a high-torque Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) with manual mode and steering wheel paddle control switches and claims a 0-60 mph sprint time of 6.1 seconds. The Legacy’s CVT hydraulic system features lower viscosity oil reducing horsepower loss by 32% compared to the previous models. Alongside the performance blower model, other Legacy models will employ a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter Boxer with 182 hp at 5,800 rpm and 176 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm.
To cope with the extra hike in power, all the models will feature lighter and stronger suspension architecture including front MacPherson struts with reworked internal rebound spring, aluminum lower L-arms and new 23mm hollow stabilizer bar. Rear suspension features a double-wishbone layout with subframe, coil springs and new 19mm hollow stabilizer bar. The new models will come to market by autumn 2019.
— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in London. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_
