Subaru will launch its new Legacy 3.0R spec.B at the 2004 Paris Motor Show. The new model is essentially a more driver focused version of the acclaimed 3.0R, and was previewed at the 2003 Frankfurt Show.

At £26,500 for the saloon and £27,500 for the Sports Tourer version, the new Legacy looks like conspicuously good value for money, especially when compared with the regular (£500 cheaper) 3.0R. The most obvious difference between the cars is the fitment of a new 6-speed manual, where the 3.0R makes do with a 5-speed automatic. The new 'box is based on that fitted to the more hardcore Impreza STi, but has been substantially altered to suit the more sedate character of the Legacy. To this end, the clutch and gearchange action are lighter, and somewhat surprisingly on an enthusiast's car, come with an electronic anti-stall mechanism.

Thankfully, the chassis has been honed for press-on driving. The front suspension now features inverted struts (as used on the STi Impreza) and the rear-end gains a limited slip differential, which should endow the chassis with an extra fun factor. As with all Subarus, drive is through all four wheels.

The distinctive horizontally opposed six-cylinder ‘boxer’ engine pushes out more nearly 245bhp and 219lb.ft of torque, enabling the saloon to post a 0-60mph time of only 6.5 seconds on its way to a mighty, if less relevant 151mph top speed. As ever with this engine layout, the throbby exhaust note will be as appealing as its smooth performance.

Visually, the spec.B can be distinguished from the 3.0R Legacy by dark metallic headlamp surrounds and dark metallic 7-spoke alloy wheels in a larger 8JJ x 18" size, fitted with 215/45 R18 tyres. A high level of standard equipment is standard, including eight-way electrically adjustable front seats, a six CD system, electrically powered sunroof, front, side and curtain airbags and satellite navigation. Other standard items include full climate-control air-conditioning, four electric windows, a Thatcham Category One alarm/immobiliser, heated front seats, door mirrors and windscreen de-icer and neat electro-luminescent instruments which swing in a full arc every time the ignition is turned on.

All in all, the Legacy remains the choice of the shrewd buyer that places value for money and driver appeal above badge snobbery. Here lies a genuine rival for BMW et al. We look forward to driving the Legacy later this year. Watch out for the review on the main Road Tests page.

Shane O' Donoghue - 14 Sep 2004