In spite of the layers of masking, the visual differences are prominent in that the new car features a smaller grille with a thicker centre logo bar, slimmer headlights and a more upwards flowing shoulder line.
Unknown though is whether the Legacy will follow the Forester, Impreza, XV and North American Ascent in being based on the automaker’s new Global Platform. Viewed from the side, the prototype has a significantly longer rear window line and elongated bootlid, suggesting a gain in overall wheelbase and length, which could be as a result of moving to the new platform.
Whereas the interior will likely mirror that of the Ascent, speculation is that the 3.6-litre flat-six Boxer engine will fall away and make way for a series of four-cylinder normally aspirated and turbocharged motors. If so, expect the Forester’s 136kW/239Nm naturally breathing 2.5 to be the base engine and the Ascent’s 191kW/376Nm 2.4-litre turbo to be the new flagship. A plug-in hybrid could also join at some stage.
As mentioned though, Subaru will likely only reveal its new top-spec sedan next year but expect more details to be revealed in the coming months.
