Used 2003 Subaru Legacy Consumer Reviews
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Great Subaru Can't Go Wrong
barufan, 04/02/2012
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
21 of 21 people found this review helpful
This car has been rock solid. Over 150,000 miles and counting. The review that talks about the shifting, just drop into 3rd on the automatic in-town; the 4th gear is overdrive for the highway...read the manual! The head gaskets have been an issue, but there is a replacement gasket that permanently fixes the problem. I did mine as a preventative and it is still cheaper to own than many other car brands that I won't mention. I think this is a great car and will buy Subarus forever. Can't wait for the diesel model to hit the US.
fooled
A.V., 01/14/2010
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
I bought this car brand new seven years ago thinking that since it was a Subaru I wouldn't have to worry about a major repair bill until well after it hit 100,000 mi....I was wrong. This car only has 86,000 mi. on it and the cylinder head gasket is leaking. Cost estimate for repair is $920 to repair the one, and if I want to replace both the estimate is around $1700. Shortly after I bought the car, Subaru had a recall on it to fix something in the transmission. So much for the Subaru reputation for building a reliable car. Another irritation is the heater, it gets my right foot nice and toasty but leaves my left foot cold. On the positive side; it is a comfortable ride.
2003 Subaru Legacy for sale near you
Showing 3 of 8 listings
- L Special Edition WagonMSRP: $2,995324 mi away
- 2.5 GT WagonMSRP: $1,400626 mi away
- L SedanMSRP: $2,750636 mi away
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Amazing until 100k
_herzog, 11/08/2013
2003 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
I loved this car and would purchase another, because Subaru's are safe and handle amazing. Worse luck though, I had a blown head gasket at just over 100k and that was the beginning of all sorts of engine problems, resulting in eventual engine replacement; and this, despite faithful maintenance from the dealer since I purchased it at 14k.
Not like previous Subarus
Russ, 03/12/2010
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
17 of 19 people found this review helpful
This model was a lemon from the start. First two days discovered there was almost no transmission fluid in the transmission. Dealer blamed us but rescinded when I wrote to Subaru Regional Manager. 70K miles car overheated due to blown gaskets, $3,000+ replacement of heads. Now at 125,000 it is being towed away as a donor as either the rod bearings or main bearings are starting to go. Two previous Subarus (1990's models) are still on the road after we gave them away at 225,000 miles years ago. This is the last Subaru we will buy.
2003 Subaru Legacy
RJDouglas, 11/15/2003
2003 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I am the mother of three boys and I also work full time. I live in a rural area where the roads can be very hard to drive on in snowy or rainy conditions. This car has yet to fail me. It goes in the snow or rain like a dream. It is the dependable family car, but also is very nice in apperance. It comes with two moon roofs and a very nice CD player-stereo system. It is very comfortable to ride in on long trips and gets excellent gas mileage, especially on the highway. Also, being the parent of three kids, I needed something affordable and I found all of what I needed with the Subaru Legacy. I love this car!
2.5 GT Wagon
Shaggy , 08/02/2002
2003 Subaru Legacy 2.5 GT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
With the new GT package with a more luxury feel, this wagon is one of the best values on the market. We looked for six months, but anything comparable cost $7,000 to 10,000 more. Getting leather in a wagon was worth the wait. We paid 25,700 the TMV model was reading at 26,300 so its reading a little high on this car, which underscores what a good value it is.
This is the best car I have ever owned
MNlovessubies, 10/20/2008
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Extremely reliable - even at 82k miles. The clutch is tight and acceleration with my manual 5 speed transmission is good. I have achieved 30 MPG on highway trips. I take this car on long trips and the seats are the perfect mix of firmness and luxury. I live in Minnesota, so the AWD has saved me numerous times while others are stranded. I honestly haven't had a single problem. I do keep up all recommended maintenance at the Subaru dealership.
This car is OUTSTANDING
twincities25, 02/06/2009
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
No problems. Great MPG. I have the special edition L series which includes a fantastic sunroof and upgraded wheels. I bought the 5 speed for better acceleration and good MPG. The best MPG I have gotten was 30 (highway). I baby this car and always have the routine maintenance done. I live in a snowy/icy area so the All wheel drive is definitely appreciated. I have never driven a more reliable car. I still get compliments on the car even though it is more than five years old now.
Clutch Problems
in NJ, 09/23/2005
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
In 3 years our only real complaint is the clutch. From day 1, when you try to shift into first gear when the car has not been run for a few hours, the entire car shudders and bucks like you are learning to drive a manual for the first time. There is another review in here that mentions the same problem. Make sure you drive this car cold before you purchase. Otherwise, we are pretty happy with the car.
Eh... won't do again
thumbsabit down, 05/28/2004
2003 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Liked it alot when I bought it -but won't do this model again. Many people I know LOVE their Subaru- but, IMHO- it's too much $$ for the bang. Our plan was to buy a new car that we can drive for many years. It's cramped when 4 in the car- and worse if an avg size dog comes with us. Exterior paint stinks-chips easily. Too many blind spots to find during test-drive. (I didn't read the articles for testing- beforehand.) Thought gas would be better- 19-21 is best mileage yet.Don't fall for the brouha-ha... I'm going with Honda or Toyota for my next car- asap.
Fun to drive, but needs good clutch
DAGreek, 02/15/2009
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I get about 20 mpg in town and 24-28 on freeways. The only major repair in 70K miles was a new clutch at 50K, which is miserable. A local Subaru specialist replaced it with a heavier version. The notchy tranny needs a 6th gear and the seats are no help for me, I am 6'3". The car is fun to drive on windy Sierra highways, and the AWD is a blessing in the snow. The engine could use more power, but if you use the whole power band and the 5 speed, it works. If I get better mileage out of the second clutch, I'll buy the Recaros.
Reliable Vehicle
ChetVA, 07/10/2005
2003 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Very handy vehicle for getting around in snow and icy conditions; fairly comfortable on long trips, though not overly roomy inside, especially in the back seat. Gas mileage is ok, but would prefer it to be more fuel efficient; never had a breakdown, and no mechanical problems whatsoever; have had some trouble with replacement wiper blades staying put; also have a lot of wind noise while driving with the windows up; seems like a bad seal in the driver side window; all in all a fantastic vehicle and super to get around in bad weather
Good car, not great
Ajluptak, 06/02/2004
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Car is OK in most respects ( handling, ride, etc. AWD system shines in poor conditions. Car is only adequately powered (165hp) and the AWD system is heavy, making the car sluggish. 4 spd auto trans geared too steeply for engine power, hunts in and out of gears. Fuel economy awful, 16 mpg average and my wife is not a leadfoot. If you can find a 5 spd manual car, get it. Lack of power should be fixed with the optional 5 spd auto and 250 hp turbo 4 in the 2005 car.
Update
ajluptak, 11/15/2005
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is an update to an earlier posting. After 32k miles, the Subie feels much older. Mileage, at 17 mpg city, is still awful for a 4 cylinder, 165hp car. Once again, my wife is primary driver and she is not hard on the car. Car responds very sluggishly to throttle input, almost dangerously so. This car has had all required service done to date. I have taken the car to three Subaru dealers, all of them say the car runs normally. Maybe we got a bad car or one with some issues, but it has soured me toward Subarus. Once again, if you can find a 5 speed manual car, buy it over the automatic.
Reliable, uncomfortable seats
Jaschin, 07/08/2005
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is our 2nd subaru purchase with no regrets. Handeling and reliability consistent. DYI maintenance is easy to perform. Opted for the spoiler and leather seating to improve the "fun" factor. A little underpowered for the weight but as a daily driver, it fits the bill. No problems what so ever. If you are looking for exceptional reliability for commuting through snow, the balance of price and features (including AWD) if a good value
Not quite on top, but FAR from the bottom
PCtechGUY2003, 01/02/2008
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Good all around car, but small things are lacking, or are just annoying. Don't like overdrive gear in it... it kicks into overdrive at 35 mph... which is the average speed I go (I live in the country... the physical speed limit of the roads here is 35 mph). When you let off the gas to coast, and then give it a little gas, the car jerks a little as it jumps back into the underdrive gears. Very annoying, but nothing actually wrong. Only does this at the 35 mph mark. Gas mileage isn't what I would like: 16-18 mpg. Would also like a few more horses under the hood. Don't get me wrong... this car is MUCH better than the 96 chevy lumina it replaced.
terrible perofrmance
chris, 01/29/2007
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is a good looking, well appointed car but terrible performance. Sluggish acceleration coupled with terrible gas mileage. Doubtful if I would purchase again.
Great ideas, but rough around the edges
PCtechGUY, 04/20/2008
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Purchased this car about five months ago for the AWD. AWD is great, but does add extra weight to the car. This slows acceleration, but worst of all, you can feel the shifting in the tranny much more so than a FWD. Tranny is the worst part of this car. You hit overdrive at 35 mph, and if you coast at 35-40, it kicks in and out of overdrive constantly for hills, as well as everytime you have to bleed off speed for curves, which makes for a jerky ride. Under normal driving conditions, the car will do a lot of shifting, and the tranny is not the smoothest shifter. Interior quality is good, but could have been a little better. The knobs for the AC and heater feel a little cheap.
Poor quality can't hide
louis Eastman, 12/20/2007
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Not happy with braking system, chews up rotors and discs, air conditioning system needs to be recharged yearly, heating system does not heat floor very well. Destroys tires, less than 20000 miles for tires. The entire undercarriage is rusted out after only 5 years; this is a major problem. Two pistons were replaced under warranty and now the remaining two are near failure and are not covered. I would not recommend this vehicle to another person.
8 years on: many major repairs
tommchugh, 12/02/2011
2003 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 17 people found this review helpful
Bought this car new in 2003 because of manual transmission,wagon&4wheel disc. Until 2006 this was a reasonable car for my wife to drive for errands and commute. 2006 brought out the true character, noticed the clutch slipping at 48K. Had moved, took it to a dealer in new location, need 3 part clutch and brakes, calipers and rotors for ~$4.2K. Brakes had never "chirped", pass. front rotor very thin. Subaru after much back and forth did the parts but not the labor ($2.4K) at 48,000 miles. Fast forward to 2011, front brakes rotors and calipers @ 8 K mi., and today at 88K same for rears + fluid flush because of heat damage. Called Subaru today, thanked for report. Will NOT buy Subaru again
Reliable, but boring...
ilovesnow, 04/08/2004
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this car because it made the most sense for me - lots of room and all wheel drive for only $17,500. What I failed to take into account was the "fun to drive" factor. Let's be honest - this car is boring to look at and to drive. The all-wheel-drive is great, but it drains all the power that the engine has to offer. The power band on the car is really strange as well. The engine sounds great up to 3500 RPM and above 4500 RPM, but between those two limits, it sounds awful. Lastly, the drivers seat is very uncomfortable on long drives. I prefer a hard seat with lumbar support.
One Great Car!!
Princessssct, 12/03/2003
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I purchased this brand new 2003 Legacy L Special Edition Sedan this past summer (I could not stomach one more repair on my Jetta). My search lead me to Subaru, I remember my dad had a subaru (banana yellow) wagon when i was kid and here in New England living on a hilltop we need the AWD and he always mention how good that car was! Dad was right, Subaru and my new CAR ROCK! It's fun to drive an unbeatable value compared to other 4 door sedans out there.I got the special edition which came loaded with all the accessories you could want CD, sunroof, alloy wheels, leather wrapped wheel and shifter and fog lights.
OK But Doesn't
lukewarm, 01/31/2004
2003 Subaru Legacy 2.5 GT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We went the Suba-route once the repairs on our '90 Volvo 240DL wagon became prohibitive. Many if not most of our friends drive Subaru wagons (mainly outbacks) and LOVE them. Unfortunately, I don't. The Legacy is quite a low rider, and the interior design seems to hinder visibility and is a bit cramped. I'm not that tall (5'8") and I find the driver's seat a bit snug. The interior styling could be a touch more sophisticated at this price point. But on a positive note, it handles wonderfully in poor weather.
Great Car
BrysImpreza, 01/25/2003
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Awesome car, no complaints what-so- ever, the only thing that needed a change was the rear swaybar, so that was upgraded to a 20mm and it's a station wagon that handles like it's on rails
Not so sexy, but....
Welldav, 04/20/2009
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Ok, the car isn't the greatest car in the world. But it is very practical, reliable and just a plain workhorse. It hauls my family around, my toys and junk we buy. It's short so my wife and folks can get in and out without assistance (they are disabled). When I bought it my wife hated it and laughed at me for wanting a wagon, now she took it away from me, so I am stuck with the sedan.
AWD Awesome!
SandMan, 05/07/2004
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My son has owned 3 Subarus, including the sporty XT6, and sold me on the reliability and engineering of this car. I'm very pleased with the handling on mountain curves, and solidness of the body. The engine needed about 10 - 15 extra ponies, which I helped along with a cold air induction kit from Injen. Now, those wanting more power - look for the 2005 turbo! Ths is a fun car to drive, has great interior colors, and is a great engineering piece. Love it!
AWD Excellent
Sean Hynes, 03/19/2006
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car has done a great job. AWD is excellent in the snow, and we get 100+ inches each year. Gas mpg average 23 with a good amount of highway driving. Quality and reliability have been excellent, not one problem in almost 3 years! Could use a few more horses, and interior space is limited, basically a 4 seater.
Ol' Reliable
snowmobile, 06/08/2005
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my second Subaru wagon. I love the versatility of the vehicle, and the knowledge that it will get you where you want to go no matter what. If you can live with the lack of style, mediocre gas mileage, and lack of get up and go, this is a great vehicle. It is much more spirited with a manual transmission. Gas mileage is great compared to any SUV, however is not up to par with any front or rear wheel drive vehicle. That being stated, the AWD is impressive in rain, snow, and mud. This is an excellent alternative to a small or mid-size SUV. Reliability is uncompromised, Subaru owners generally purchase Subaru's again and again.
The newest update on the 03 Subaru Legacy!
Edward , 03/27/2024
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had this car for about a year now, It has been family owned its entire life and has only broke down once in its so far 21 year reign. While my Legacy has only a baby 74k on the odometer it is a great car. The car rides beautifully smooth and the power is on the weaker side. Maintenance has been done very regularly on the Subaru since 03 and about 10k has went to repairs. The a/c does die or will most likely need to be recharged for whatever reason so look out for that when buying. Also a great thing to mention is how large the trunk is on the sedan model. It is literally the exact same size in sq ft, but lacking in height where the wagon prospers in its space. Amazingly with a dealer tune up this car still pushes 22+ mpg daily and I could do better if I didn't love the "Sport shift" that comes in the automatic trans I have. THE HEAD GASKETS have not yet gone wrong, a little spooky to be lingering as it is almost inevitable but not even the slightest leak to this day and almost every part in the engine bay is original and functioning. RUST is a big thing with these cars as most have been bought for AWD in the snow, The rust on my car is mostly affecting my exhaust and hasn't even bothered the frame past some very spotty and light on the frame. Overall the car has held up beautifully and hasn't faltered on me whatsoever but works as a great daily you can trust for its AWD.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Love my Subi
Kate, 11/03/2021
2003 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have a 2003 Subaru Legacy, I love my and I will continue to fix whatever she needs fixed. I did have a bad head gasket, and some trouble with the radiator. I'm fortunate to have a husband who can do the repairs so for me the cost was minimal. It has been a great car, I bought it used about 8 years ago and even though she's had some issues, I'm still happy to own her. It's just a great driving car, almost 160k and running sweet.
You may wish to consider other cars
Brandon Schultz, 05/25/2003
2003 Subaru Legacy 2.5 GT AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We have owned our Legacy 2.5 GT for 6 months. It handles better than any car I have ever owned. However, it has some design problems. When the clutch is cold, the car will vibrate excessively and now it has begun to make unusual whining noises. If you don't slam the doors, they don't close, and when the doors are slammed it starts to rattle. Sometimes you can push the remote 30 times and only the driver door will unlock although you hear a beep with each push. Other times, two beeps is enough. A little more hp would be better. You have to be He-Man to put it into reverse. Look at other brands before you buy this Subaru.
It's ok and that's it!
R.J.M., 04/11/2007
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love the versatility of the car. I will say that it will get you where you want to go no matter what is true. If you can live with the lack of power, style, and mediocre gas mileage. The manual transmission is much better for passing and is more fun to drive. Gas mileage is the same if compared to any small SUV. I have 90000 miles on mine in four years of driving it and it has had a lot of work done to it some under the warranty and some by myself to save money (water pump, hug bearings, brakes and rotors twice, O2 sensors and a CAT, and just last week the viscous coupler and bearings went in the transmission). I do not beat on the car but I do drive it on the expressway 80 miles a day at 75 mph.
My fourth Subaru
Vince Toman, 10/04/2003
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I haven't had this particular car long but it is my 4th Subaru and I know what to expect. So far, this vehicle has met all of my expectations of fit and finish and overall performance. I expect the winter driving experience to meet all of my expectations as well. I picked this car up on Tuesday and drove it 1200 miles to Ohio without a mechanical problem. There was some wind noise at speeds around 45 mph that I didn't expect and when I returned, I mentioned this to the dealer and they were able to correct that by adjusting the glass track and replacing a mirror gusset (?). It now has the quiet ride I anticipated.
Great looking date, but has to get loose
Plains Drifter, 11/17/2002
2003 Subaru Legacy 2.5 GT AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I find the look of the legacy to be attractive but my beef with the car is clear in the amount of HP it has. This car is built for safety first and that as the driver you certainly can tell. However, with safety comes alot of weight and this car needs at least another 25hp & also a 6spd tranny. On the bright side, I've never driven a sports car that handles better, the AWD is awesome and this car is just as sure footed on wet ground as it is on dry ground
Faulty Head Gaskets Still - Buyer Beware
Faulty Head Gaskets, 01/26/2008
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
Clutch shudder 25K miles. Replaced under warranty. Both head gaskets leaking at 89K miles. Fixed at a cost of $2K. Reputation for reliability is based upon pre 2.5L models. These cars are prone to issues by design and are expensive when need to be repaired.
Alternative to Hondas and Toyotas
ronin, 12/17/2002
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a vehicle that should be considered when car shopping. If you want the reliability and performance of a Honda or Toyota but don't want to have the same car as your neighbor,this is your car. I'm not big on 4 cylinder engines but this has impressed me. The AWD system is outstanding! Do yourself a favor and at least test drive one.
AWD Confidence with Style
subiefan, 12/23/2002
2003 Subaru Legacy 2.5 GT AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Traded in '01 Subaru Outback Wagon for this car. It has so many great standard features. It was a tough decision between the L Special Edition and the GT but I was a sucker for the heated seats and mirrors and the leather seating. I also went from a straight drive to Auto so I like the Sport Shift on the GT. These cars look great with a spoiler on the back.
Great Car Often Overlooked
SensibleDriver, 01/15/2004
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car. I have always owned new Subaru's since my first Legacy in 1991. It was a L+ edition that was $18k. I drove it thru college and 140k miles. I then purchased an 96 Outback. In Oct.2003 I purchased this L Sped Ed Wagon, one of two 2003's left on the lot. I have been pleased with it! Got it for $19,500! Not much more than my first in 1991, but with many more features. Love the dual sunroofs. Goes in the snow like a tank!
2.5 GT - Nice Ride
Jack J., 12/30/2002
2003 Subaru Legacy 2.5 GT AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After 15 years driving VW’s and Audi’s, a friend convinced me to test drive his Subaru and I have to admit, the first mile had me convinced that this was a car to seriously consider. I was going to settle on another make and model but I am glad that I held off. Besides that, over the holiday season, I was stuck in two separate snowstorms and need to tell you, I was in by far the best car on the road. SUV’s were sliding off the road all around me, but the Subaru was sure footed my entire trip. The only guy to keep up was in an Outback!
No Better Car Out There For The Money
Brian & Erin, 03/15/2004
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Having parents that have owned two Subaru's for years and hearing how great a car they build, we decided to go out and buy one. After owning the car for a little over a year now, I can honestly tell you this is the best car I've owned. I am NOT a family car type of guy and I love driving this car. From the solid Subaru build quality to the All-Wheel drive and the suprisingly well cornering ability. The list goes on and on. At around $20,000 this car is a steal.
Handling + Safety Topnotch
tanjv, 03/07/2003
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The day I got this car there was a blizzard that evening and I drove home from a party. While all the other cars (especially SUVs) were skidding all over the road this baby cruised passed them like nothing happened. Not a single skid! Try this with a Honda Accord like I did and you'll be swimming left and right. I understand it got top safety ratings from the National Highway tests.
Love It
LuvIt, 01/31/2003
2003 Subaru Legacy 2.5 GT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've been driving this car for a year, and I love it. This is my first stick in 10 years and I now remember why I like them. Nice shifting, great handling car. Very comfortable for 9 hour drives. My first (and ongoing) impression is how smooth the car is. My biggest complaints are the peformance of the standard tires in the snow (goes straight great, sporting in the turns) and the lack of get up and go when the a/c is on. The flat four is a great engine; sounds funky and is the only truly smooth 4 out there.
Extreme Value and Performance
marzomi, 02/18/2003
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Recently traded in my 2000 Grand Cherokee, for what I thought was a step down, a 2003 Legacy Specail Edition Sedan. I thought wrong. This car clearly is out performing my Jeep. Solid on the "slick stuff", great interior harmony, tight to the road, great option package and a true driving experience. And not to forget, less standing at the gas pump. I shopped the 03 Accord, 03 Camary and 03 Passat, nice cars,equal performance, but can't touch the value of this one.
All the bells and whistles
Jason Kellner, 07/21/2004
2003 Subaru Legacy 2.5 GT AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Coming from an AWD Impreza, I thought the handling was good. My 03 Legacy GT far surpasses it. Because it sticks to the road like glue, I can keep up with Porsches and BMWs easily on mountain roads and fly right by clumsy SUVs. I test drove one with an automatic, and the complaints about power with this trans are warranted. I got a 5-speed and the sluggishness issues were resolved. I'm averaging 28 MPG in mixed driving. What's best is the '03 and '04 GTs have every option imagineable -- In-dash CD changer, heated leather seats w/side airbags, heated mirrors, windshield wiper de-icer, fog lights, 16-inch wheels, moonroof, etc. Very hard to find a 5-speed.
Quite Surprised!
newcarluvr, 07/12/2003
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car gets looks galore when we are parked anywhere! We have the Special Edition L and it so far exceeds any expectations we could ever want in driving a new car! Handling on the highways in torrential downpours is enough to make you realize you can't do better with the handling of this car!
uncommon sedan
bratman2, 01/19/2005
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We bought this car while visiting our daughter in Colorado as an alternative to a SUV. We also had owned a 93 Legacy fwd and still own an old 87 Brat. We drove the 1800 miles back to the east coast in three days in this car so we got a pretty good feel for it. All I can say is outstanding ride, handling. Fuel economy broke 29 mpg with three in the car and luggage day three. Just passed 30k in the car w/ no issues, just maintaince. 19k for a sedan w/ all wheel drive, sunroof and pretty 16" alloys I while pass on Camerys and Accords. We sold our 97 Mustang when we got home, though it was a V6 and straight line would out run the Legacy, the Sub has got the handling, rain or shine.
What a Car!
SubaruGal, 08/20/2003
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
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I could never have expected handling/ride quality PLUS all the other amenities from a car in this price range. The AWD by itself puts this vehicle a step ahead of the rest. Handling is GREAT in all types of weather, and it stops on a dime! The styling is sleek and sophisticated, and often draws a lot of attention since it doesn't look like every other car on the road. Bottom line - I love it and would highly recommend it to anyone!
nice car!!
tcooper, 03/15/2003
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just bought the legacy special edition. with only a thousand miles on it, too early to tell about reliability. I bought the car presidents day weekend for $18,200. The invoice was about that before destination charges. I believe I got a good deal. The amazing thing to me is that I purchased this subaru for only $500 more than my wife's Legacy sedan (L) in 1998!!! Look how much more I got! bigger engine, sun roof, leather wheel and shift etc.. I like the handling very much. I am getting about 25mpg right now, hoping for a little more after it is broken in.
2003 Legacy Sedan - Excellent Family Car
dupre29, 09/19/2002
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
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I researched many cars, including Camry, and Accord, for my family with a max price of $20-21K. I was very pleased to see the Legacy sedan in this price range. I reviewed not only the specs of the car, including AWD, but the crash tests as well. If you do your homework, and you want the absolute most safe sedan under 21K for your family, pick this vehicle! We love it!
Wagon
EMIL TOLEDO, 08/30/2003
2003 Subaru Legacy L Special Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
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I replaced a Passat and found the subaru less powerful and providing less gas milage than the Passat.The pluses are the all drive and the fa.ct that it runs on low test gas.The superior reliability and better braking are also plusses so on balance I like it better than the Passat.