The next-generation Subaru Legacy has been
spotted undergoing road tests in Detroit, United States, and is set to use the
new Subaru Global Platform.
Set to debut next year as a 2020-year model, the
Subaru Legacy is likely to adopt the 2.5 litre direct-injection petrol engine
which made its debut in the 2019 Subaru Forester in March. A 2.0 litre
turbocharged petrol four is also said to be likely, and both will replace the
3.6 litre naturally-aspirated six-cylinder boxer. For reference, the 2.5 litre
mill produces 182 hp and 239 Nm of torque in the 2019 Forester.
Lean-burn technology and cylinder deactivation are
both also expected to feature in the upcoming Legacy. The Japanese automaker’s all-wheel drive powertrain layout is expected to
remain, as can the CVT transmission from before, though it remains to be seen
whether or not the Legacy will gain the Active Torque Vectoring system fitted
to the WRX and WRX STI.
The equipment list is too early to tell at this
point, though it can be expected to feature most, if not all of the company’s
innovations. These – on the 2019 Forester – include the EyeSight driver assistant
system for the full suite of active driver aids, including Lane Keep Assist,
Pre-Collision Throttle Management and Lead Vehicle Start Alert.
A concept can be expected to preview the production
version of the forthcoming Legacy, though from what we can gauge of this test
mule, the new model will be an evolution of the current car, rather than a
revolution
