First Drive: 2007 Subaru Legacy 2.5 GT spec.B
05/01/2007
Shahed Hussain
The Subaru Legacy has always been a niche vehicle, and the 2.5 GT spec.B is even more so. The spec.B is aimed at enthusiasts who know exactly what they want: a sleeper all-wheel drive (AWD) sport sedan. Recently, the selection of AWD sedans in the $30-35K range has expanded significantly. Buyers can consider the Lexus IS250 AWD, Audi A4 2.0T quattro, BMW 328xi, Lincoln MKZ, and Infiniti G35x as alternatives. If a manual transmission is your preference, then only the Subaru, Audi, and BMW are left. The 2.5 GT spec.B offers more power than either the 328xi or A4 2.0T quattro, while its base price ($33,995) slots it between the Audi ($30,300) and the BMW ($34,340). So the real question is whether you prefer your AWD sport sedan from Japan or Germany.
To distinguish the spec.B from lesser Legacy models, Subaru includes 18-inch alloy wheels, ground effects exterior trim, charcoal gray & blue Alcantara seats, aluminum alloy pedal covers, and a MOMO(R) 3-spoke steering wheel. Other standard features include SI-Drive engine performance control, heated sport seats, and a SRS(R) WOW audio system with MP3/WMA playback capability.
Subaru equips the Legacy 2.5 GT spec.B with a sophisticated AWD system, incorporating a viscous center differential that dynamically varies the normal 50:50 front/rear torque split for enhanced stability and traction. For 2007, Subaru added a Torsen limited-slip rear differential to further improve traction. Standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) ensures safe and predictable handling in all road conditions. The spec.B also gets Bilstein dampers for a more tightly damped ride, as well as aluminum front and rear suspension components for lower unsprung weight and improved handling. Bigger vented brake rotors are also standard on the spec.B. Subaru's SI-Drive allows the driver to select "Intelligent" mode for relaxed cruising and superior fuel economy, "Sport" mode for enhanced throttle response, or "Sport Sharp" mode for maximum engine performance. We chose to leave the SI-Drive in "Sport Sharp" mode during our drive, although the "Intelligent" mode is probably best suited for most normal driving.
We had a chance to test the spec.B on the Road America track in Wisconsin. Simply put, the spec. B is superb sport sedan in need of a firmer suspension. Out on the track, the 2.5L turbo offers ample thrust in low speed corners and fast straights. The flat-4 growls aggressively as the tachometer arcs through the rev range, but never sounds harsh. The standard close ratio 6-speed manual has a light, progressive clutch coupled to a positive shifting transmission that encourages fast driving. Like most AWD cars, the spec.B exhibits mild understeer around corners. Although a more neutral cornering attitude would certainly be appreciated, predictable understeer is preferable for most drivers.
Subaru specified grippy Bridgestone 215/45R-18 RE050A performance tires that allow the spec.B to drift progressively around tight corners without drama, but the soft springs and anti-roll bars allow excessive roll and weight transfer that disrupt handling at the limit. The chassis engineers obviously set up the suspension for a compliant ride on the road, and not for track day enthusiasts. For those more aggressive drivers, Subaru offers Impreza STI. According to Subaru, the Legacy 2.5 GT spec.B is for the driver who needs a practical sport sedan that won't cause protests from the spouse or the kids. Even so, an optional stiffer sport suspension would appeal to owners who prefer a more snubbed down handling setup.
Despite its minor flaws, the spec.B is a superb AWD sport sedan for enthusiasts who must contend with foul weather and family obligations. With its understated styling, this Subaru won't attract the wrong kind of attention from law enforcement, or scream boy racer to the neighbors. As long as your spouse doesn't object to a manual transmission, the Legacy 2.5 GT spec.B may be just the ideal sport sedan for the enthusiast with responsibilities.