Subaru Legacy VII (BT) (2020 – 2025)

Reliability score : 8.3/10

The seventh-generation Subaru Legacy (BT code) is based on the Subaru Global Platform (SGP). Designed primarily for the North American market (it was withdrawn from the European and Japanese markets in favor of SUVs like the Outback), it stands out for its significantly improved ride comfort, enhanced soundproofing, and large 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen. True to the brand's DNA, it offers symmetrical full-time all-wheel drive (Symmetrical AWD) and the EyeSight preventive safety system as standard. A facelift was introduced for the 2023 model year, bringing a redesigned front end and technological updates. It is recognized as one of the safest and most reliable midsize sedans in its segment, although its sales suffer from the general disaffection for sedans.

✅ Strengths

⚠️ Weaknesses

🎯 Verdict

The 7th generation Subaru Legacy (BT) is an extremely rational and safe choice for North American buyers looking for a midsize sedan. Its standard all-wheel drive makes it a winter queen, and its mechanical reliability is very solid, surpassing the category average according to Consumer Reports and J.D. Power. Subaru's old demons (head gaskets) are ancient history with the FB25D and FA24F engines. However, the first year of production (2020) suffered numerous early recalls (fuel pump, CVT gearbox programming, infotainment). Buying advice: Favor models from 2021 or 2022 onwards, where early defects were corrected at the factory. The naturally aspirated 2.5L engine is the most sensible choice for 90% of drivers, offering excellent durability. Ensure that all recalls (especially those concerning the gearbox TCU) have been performed by the previous owner.

Common issues

Dysfonctionnements du système d'infodivertissement Low
🔧 Dès l'acquisition – 50 000 km
💶 0 – 250 € (mise à jour logicielle ou réinitialisation, hors garantie un diagnostic peut être facturé)
Vérifier les mises à jour logicielles et la compatibilité des appareils.
Problèmes électriques mineurs (capteurs, alertes) Low
🔧 40 000 – 80 000 km
💶 150 – 400 € (selon le capteur et la main-d'œuvre)
Ne pas ignorer les voyants d'alerte, faire diagnostiquer rapidement.
Consommation d'huile moteur (moteur FB25) Medium
🔧 60 000 – 120 000 km
💶 150 – 300 € (pour un diagnostic approfondi si la consommation est excessive)
Vérifier le niveau d'huile moteur régulièrement et faire l'appoint si nécessaire.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change £70 – 130
Complete brakes £280 – 550
Estimated annual budget £450 – 900

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.