4 Star Reviews for 2003 Subaru Legacy

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
  • 2.5 GT Wagon - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    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.

  • Not quite on top, but FAR from the bottom - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    Good all around car, but small things are lacking, or are just annoying. Dont 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 isnt what I would like: 16-18 mpg. Would also like a few more horses under the hood. Dont get me wrong... this car is MUCH better than the 96 chevy lumina it replaced.

  • Reliable Vehicle - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    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

  • AWD Excellent - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    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.

  • Great ideas, but rough around the edges - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    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.

  • Love it.... - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    I bought this car after many years of wanting a AWD vehicle. Looked at several alternatives and decided upon a Legacy. Bought it for $20,800 which was, at the time a better deal than what was being offered for end of year 2002 models. My biggest complaint so far is that I seem to be only able to get 20mpg or less around town. Thats a couple less than the rating was. No big deal, but.... Just had our first storm in Vermont (10/17) and the snows were due to go on in a couple of days. No problem. Took a while to get used to the fact that it was easier to move in the Subaru than stop (on ice). Looking forward to performance once the snow tires get on.

  • Not so sexy, but.... - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    Ok, the car isnt 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. Its 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.

  • Wagon - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    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.

  • New Subaru - 2003 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    Seems to be a great car, have 950 miles on it so far. Hope as good as previous Subarus.

Subaru Legacy Reviews By Year:
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