After four generations, Subaru Legacy's 2008 midsize model gets a revamped image with upscale styling and a new top-line sedan model with a six-cylinder engine. The addition of the WRX STI's turbo-charged engine places the powerful Legacy GT in a category otherwise occupied by cars of European origin. Legacy offers sedan and wagon body styles, available in 2.5i and 2.5 GT trims, with all-wheel drive and horizontally opposed engines.

The Subaru Legacy gets a 175-horsepower, 2.5-liter, horizontally opposed, four-cylinder engine teamed with a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission. The 2.5 GT Limited uses a turbo-charged 2.5-liter engine that produces 243 horsepower with a five-speed automatic or five-speed manual. The 3.0 R Limited has a 245-horsepower, six-cylinder engine and uses a five-speed automatic. With the automatic transmission, both the 2.5 GT Limited and 3.0 R Limited have steering-wheel paddle shifters for manual operation.

The Subaru Legacy gets a slicker profile and premium standard features for 2008. The front fascia includes larger fog lights, a revised grille with winged crossbar, and new air dam. Smaller taillights with chrome borders bring up the rear. The bumper has reflectors on either side, and side mirrors now have turn signals. The 3.0 R Limited has no air scoop, and wears 18-inch alloy wheels with thick spokes. Legacy now includes an anti-skid system, which is standard on GT and 3.0, and available on other models. 2008 models across the board have fresh exteriors and a revised dashboard.

Safety features include four-wheel anti-lock brakes; child seat anchors; head air bags; side air bags; stability control; and traction control.