Subaru Legacy Saloon (2003-2010) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 3 out of 53.0

Written by David Ross Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 23 - 50 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

Subaru servicing is good value and parts are reasonably priced. Compared to more premium makes, the Legacy is good value too and comes well equipped, but the petrol engines can be thirsty – especially the 3.0-litre which returns just 23mpg. For long distance drivers, the diesel is easily the most attractive engine.

The Legacy is quite a polluting model, not helped by some powerful and thirsty petrol engines. The diesel – launched in 2008 – is the most efficient. It emits 148g/km of CO2 and averages 50mpg.

Subaru built its reputation on producing tough workhorses that keep on running. The Legacy has been every bit as reliable and the interior should last much longer than on previous models.