SI-DRIVE

SI-Drive display.

Intelligent mode.

Sport mode.

Sport Sharp mode.

SI-DRIVE mode switch.

The SI-DRIVE (Subaru Intelligent Drive) system allows the driver to choose from three electronic engine controls or maps. These are chosen by a rotary switch on the center console. Changes to engine mapping modify the operation of the electronic throttle system, turbo wastegate and variable valve timing. These affect engine torque, maximum power and even the throttle response curve.

The three SI-DRIVE settings are Intelligent, Sport and Sport Sharp. Mode selection can be made “on the fly,” and the current SI-DRIVE mode is indicated on a display within the tachometer.

Characteristics of the three modes:

INTELLIGENT – improves drivability in low-traction driving conditions and fuel economy by as much as 10 percent
SPORT – provides a more linear feeling with quicker throttle response; it feels like the 2006 Legacy 2.5 GT, only smoother
SPORT SHARP – performance improved over the 2006 Legacy 2.5 GT, with quicker throttle response and delivery of engine power, narrowing the gap between it and the Impreza WRX STI

The differences between the three modes are pronounced. SI-DRIVE gives the driver three different vehicles in one.

2007 SUBARU LEGACY 2.5 GT SPEC.B

AFTER ITS SUCCESSFUL RUN IN 2006, THE LEGACY 2.5 GT SPEC.B JUST GETS BETTER FOR 2007 WITH ENHANCED PERFORMANCE AND CONVENIENCE FEATURES.

The limited-edition 2006 Legacy 2.5 GT spec.B has left a positive imprint on automotive journalists and enthusiasts since its introduction in the fall of 2005. The individually numbered cars were subtly unique, with few external cues to differentiate them from standard GT models. Instead, their handling and interior features set them apart.

That changes for 2007. The spec.B has a more distinctive exterior, and its equipment has a higher level of sophistication. Here’s what we know at press time.

WHAT REMAINS THE SAME

Much of what made the Legacy 2.5 GT spec.B such an outstanding car remains. Exterior features carried over from last year include the aerodynamic pieces with chrome trim and 215/45 R18 89Y tires mounted on 10-spoke, 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.

Inside, the 2007 model retains last year’s standard touch-screen GPS navigation system; three-spoke, leather-wrapped MOMO^® steering wheel with integrated audio controls; and aluminum-alloy pedal covers and footrest.

Carryover mechanical features include the Bilstein^® Sport Suspension, with inverted front struts and aluminum-alloy front control arms, rear arms and upper links. Power is from a 2.5-liter DOHC aluminum-alloy Subaru Boxer four-cylinder engine with Active Valve Control. It has an intercooled, air-to-air turbocharger with a maximum boost of 13.5 psi, and it produces 243 hp @ 6,000 rpm and 241 lb-ft of torque @ 3,600 rpm.

10-spoke, 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.

Charcoal Black and Dusk Blue interior color palette.

Six-speed standard transmission.

WHAT CHANGES

Start with the exterior, where the spec.B finish is Diamond Gray Metallic. Inside, the color palette has changed to charcoal and dark blue, with exclusive Dusk Blue Alcantara^®* and Charcoal Black leather-trimmed upholstery. That theme continues on the floor mats, which are Charcoal with Dusk Blue piping.

The car’s manual transmission has another forward gear – a six-speed replaces the five-speed from last year. This is the first time a six-speed is available in a Subaru other than in the WRX STI.

WHAT IS ADDED

Added to the Legacy 2.5 GT spec.B’s drivetrain for 2007 is a Torsen^® limited-slip rear differential, enhancing the traction provided by the car’s Symmetrical AWD. Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) is another new chassis feature. This system applies braking power and/or reduced engine torque to help correct the car’s direction in situations where it starts to understeer or oversteer. Spec.B features also include the Tire Pressure Monitoring System for 2007.

Another performance-enhancing feature standard in the spec.B is the SI-DRIVE system – Subaru Intelligent Drive, which will be standard in all 2007 turbo-powered Legacy and Outback vehicles. This driver-controllable engine-management system allows the driver to choose from three settings to match driving conditions and style.

Inside, the 2007 spec.B adds an eight-way power driver’s seat with two-position memory and a split fold-down rear seat with trunk pass-through.

The audio system benefits from added features, including an auxiliary input jack in the center console, MP3/WMA playback capability, SRS WOW sound enhancement and XM^® Satellite Radio capability.

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

Recognized by enthusiasts and the automotive press since its introduction, the spec.B’s capabilities improve significantly for 2007. Put the Legacy 2.5 GT spec.B on your list for a test-drive!