Potent budget Subaru Legacy here

The entry-level Legacy 2.0 R range introduces Subaru's double overhead camshaft (DOHC) technology for the first time in South Africa.

This 4-cylinder, 16-valve sedan - which replaces the 2.5i - is priced at R227 000 for the manual sedan version and R239 000 for the SportShift (automatic).

According to Subaru SA the 2.0R is placed firmly in the 1.8 to 2.4-litre segment where it compete against cars such as the Volvo S40, VW Passat and Mazda 6.

The 2.0R introduces Subaru's first DOHC model in South Africa. This model also comes with all-independent suspension, intimate driver/driving controls interface, and symmetrical all-wheel-drive feature prominently.

Subaru says that there are also a number of detail running changes - the vast majority of them under the skin - to the Legacy range for what is the 2006 model year range.

The new 2.0R has similar styling cues to 2.0 GT model.

The normally-aspirated DOHC engine represents something of a departure for Subaru in South Africa, and it is a high-revving with unit peak power, of 121 kW, is at 6 400 r/min redline at 7 500 torque of 187 Nm at 3 200 r/min.

Subaru claims a 0-100 km/h sprint of 9.1 seconds and a 214 km/h top speed.

This new entry-level model comes with the same trim as its higher-priced siblings.

This means that standard equipment includes automatic climate control, cruise control, driving computer, electric windows with one-touch up/down for the driver, and leather trimming for the steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake release. Like on other Legacy models, six airbags are standard.

The 2.0R also ushers-in a change to aluminum rear brake callipers on the Legacy ramge, a change that aids brake cooling and reduces un-sprung weight.

All Legacy models also get redesigned bushes on the engine sub-frame to decrease road noise and increase stability.

For the 2006 range, the operation of the variable valve lift system fitted to the 3.0R powerplant flagship models has been remapped for earlier intervention, bringing with it improved throttle response for swifter in-gear acceleration, enhancing fuel economy.

In addition, the 180 kW 3.0 RB performance flagship with the five-speed SportShift automatic now has a lower final drive ratio, for even more exhilarating responses.

Prices

2.0 R Sedan