Getting closer to perfection
MONTREAL, Quebec - We were invited by Subaru to drive the new 2007 Legacy, which is adding a new model to its already substantial lineup, the 2.5GT Spec.B.
Powered by the same engine as the 2.5GT model, the Spec.B gets an excellent 6-speed manual transmission, a modified version of the one found in the Impreza WRX STI. An automatic is not offered. For 2007, the turbo engine gets a slight decrease in horsepower, from 250 to 243, due to the SAE's new J1349 power calculations.
The new SI-DRIVE (for Subaru Intelligent Drive) is standard fare on all turbocharged 2007 Legacy and Outback models. According to Subaru, it was conceived to increase driving pleasure as well as improve fuel economy.
The SI-DRIVE system is complex to explain, but easy to use. In short, the system has three levels for mapping the electronic management of the engine, controlled by the driver (or a curious passenger) via a console-mounted knob. The INTELLIGENT mode gives the engine a more
relaxed character, reducing usable torque and giving it a more fluid behaviour, while reducing fuel consumption. According to tests orchestrated by Subaru, you can save up to 10% in fuel. The Intelligent mode is to be used while driving during rush-hour traffic or on congested roadways.
The SPORT mode quickens the response time of the engine while providing more linear accelerations. This mode is best used on the highway, in the suburbs or on mountain roads, Subaru says.
Thirdly, the SPORT SHARP mode hacks the throttle valve management to allow instantaneous response and even quicker acceleration. This mode is ideal for twisty back roads.
While accelerating hard in Intelligent mode, you'll feel the extra punch when you switch to the Sport setting, as the engine temper gets meaner. The difference between Sport and Sport Sharp is minimal.
Since we didn't have enough time behind the wheel to calculate the car's fuel consumption in the SI-DRIVE's three settings, the more relaxed pace of the engine in Intelligent mode makes me believe that the fuel savings flaunted by Subaru is realistic.
The Spec.B model also receives Bilstein shocks that accomplish a remarkable job of providing excellent handling as well as a compliant ride over bad roads. I immediately noticed the difference between the 2.5GT and the 2.5GT Spec.B, which we had the opportunity to drive back-to-back. The Spec.B better absorbs road imperfections.
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| (Photo: Philippe Champoux, Auto123.com) |
Powered by the same engine as the 2.5GT model, the Spec.B gets an excellent 6-speed manual transmission, a modified version of the one found in the Impreza WRX STI. An automatic is not offered. For 2007, the turbo engine gets a slight decrease in horsepower, from 250 to 243, due to the SAE's new J1349 power calculations.
The new SI-DRIVE (for Subaru Intelligent Drive) is standard fare on all turbocharged 2007 Legacy and Outback models. According to Subaru, it was conceived to increase driving pleasure as well as improve fuel economy.
The SI-DRIVE system is complex to explain, but easy to use. In short, the system has three levels for mapping the electronic management of the engine, controlled by the driver (or a curious passenger) via a console-mounted knob. The INTELLIGENT mode gives the engine a more
 |
| (Photo: Philippe Champoux, Auto123.com) |
The SPORT mode quickens the response time of the engine while providing more linear accelerations. This mode is best used on the highway, in the suburbs or on mountain roads, Subaru says.
Thirdly, the SPORT SHARP mode hacks the throttle valve management to allow instantaneous response and even quicker acceleration. This mode is ideal for twisty back roads.
 |
| (Photo: Philippe Champoux, Auto123.com) |
Since we didn't have enough time behind the wheel to calculate the car's fuel consumption in the SI-DRIVE's three settings, the more relaxed pace of the engine in Intelligent mode makes me believe that the fuel savings flaunted by Subaru is realistic.
The Spec.B model also receives Bilstein shocks that accomplish a remarkable job of providing excellent handling as well as a compliant ride over bad roads. I immediately noticed the difference between the 2.5GT and the 2.5GT Spec.B, which we had the opportunity to drive back-to-back. The Spec.B better absorbs road imperfections.