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 21 through 30 of 64.00
  • Poor quality cant hide - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    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.

  • fooled - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    I bought this car brand new seven years ago thinking that since it was a Subaru I wouldnt 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.

  • Great Car - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    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 its a station wagon that handles like its on rails

  • Quite Surprised! - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    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 cant do better with the handling of this car!

  • My fourth Subaru - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    I havent 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 didnt 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.

  • AWD Confidence with Style - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    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.

  • 2003 Legacy Sedan - Excellent Family Car - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    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!

  • Supple Subaru - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    There is no harshness in the ride of this smallish car. The seats are great. My arthritic 57 year old back feels fine even after all day trips. I had looked at Accord, Camry, A4, etc before buying the SE and I like its distinctive appearance. Fit and finish are excellent, handling is fun and predictable, but the overall suppleness of its ride has really impressed me.

  • 2.5 GT - Nice Ride - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    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!

  • Eh... wont do again - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    Liked it alot when I bought it -but wont do this model again. Many people I know LOVE their Subaru- but, IMHO- its too much $$ for the bang. Our plan was to buy a new car that we can drive for many years. Its 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 didnt read the articles for testing- beforehand.) Thought gas would be better- 19-21 is best mileage yet.Dont fall for the brouha-ha... Im going with Honda or Toyota for my next car- asap.

Subaru Legacy Reviews By Year:
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