2003 Subaru Legacy Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.31/5 Average
64 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For 2003, Subaru has added standard equipment and slightly altered available trim levels. The previous Legacy GT and GT Limited models have been consolidated into one 2.5 GT series, with all GT Limited equipment now standard. The new 2.5 GT's optional four-speed automatic now comes with a Sportshift manual mode. To fill the void created by the GT consolidation, Subaru has created an L Special Edition Package that adds several features from the 2.5 GT. Base L models now come with a standard CD player and keyless entry. 2.5 GTs have an upgraded sound system with an in-dash six-disc CD changer. Finally, all Legacys receive slightly freshened front-end styling.

Pros:
  • All-wheel drive, a host of standard features, available as a sedan or a wagon, less expensive than many European competitors.
Cons:
  • Side airbags available only on 2.5 GT models, no six-cylinder engine offered.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 64.00
  • Great Car Often Overlooked - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    I love this car. I have always owned new Subarus 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 2003s 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!

  • Reliable, but boring... - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    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. Lets 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.

  • 2002 Legacy GT - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    I drive about 5500 miles per month. My Legacy GT has performed well overall. Highway mileage exceeds 31 MPG with the manual transmission. The cabin is very quiet; wind noise minimal. The engine is somewhat underpowered; however the handling and control are exceptional with the AWD. Fit, finish and value are exceptional for a vehicle priced under $25K.

  • terrible perofrmance - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    This is a good looking, well appointed car but terrible performance. Sluggish acceleration coupled with terrible gas mileage. Doubtful if I would purchase again.

  • Reliable, uncomfortable seats - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    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

  • Faulty Head Gaskets Still - Buyer Beware - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    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.

  • AWD Awesome! - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    My son has owned 3 Subarus, including the sporty XT6, and sold me on the reliability and engineering of this car. Im 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!

  • this car is great - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    this car is great

  • Great looking date, but has to get loose - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    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, Ive 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

  • Best Wagon for the $ - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    After test driving both the Passat and Volvo V70 series wagons we werent totally satisfied. Then we decided to give Subaru a try. First we drove a base model Outback & liked the look but not all the features. Then the sales person showed us the 2.5 GT Legacy wagon. We kept the car over night and really tested it out. The handling is superb, sound system rocks! Seats are comfortable with plenty of room to spare. We were a bit worried that the 4 cyl. engine wouldnt be enough power, but its fine for most driving and its quieter.

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