Is the Subaru Legacy 3.6 RA a good car?
Yes — the Subaru Legacy 3.6R (often referenced as 3.6RA in some markets) can be a solid choice if you want all-wheel drive, a smooth six-cylinder engine, and a comfortable, roomy interior. Note that “3.6 RA” isn’t a standard Subaru trim name, so verify the exact configuration and year when shopping. Overall, it’s a dependable, practical sedan, but older tech and lower fuel economy compared with newer models are important caveats.
What you should know about the model line
The Legacy lineup has offered a 3.6-liter flat-six engine in various trims over the years. The designation “RA” is not an official Subaru trim, so you’re likely looking at a Legacy 3.6R with the 3.6L engine. Availability, features, and transmissions varied by year and market, so the specific car you’re considering could differ quite a bit from another.
Engine and performance
The Legacy 3.6R uses a 3.6-liter horizontally opposed (boxer) six-cylinder engine, delivering around 256 horsepower and roughly 247 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired most commonly with a five-speed automatic transmission and standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, resulting in smooth power delivery and solid traction in a variety of weather conditions. It isn’t a sports sedan, but it offers confident highway cruising and steady acceleration for daily driving. Real-world performance depends on the exact year, drivetrain, and condition of the car.
Ride, interior, and practicality
Strengths and reasons to consider
Here are the core advantages that attract buyers to the Legacy 3.6R/3.6RA:
- Standard all-wheel drive provides sure footing in rain, snow, and ice.
- Powerful, smooth six-cylinder engine runs quietly and delivers confident highway passing power.
- Comfortable, roomy interior with practical cargo space for a midsize sedan.
- Generally strong reliability for a Subaru with proper maintenance, especially if the cooling system and drivetrain components are well cared for.
- Solid safety baseline for its era, with multiple airbags and stability control; newer used examples often benefit from updated safety tech.
In practice, the Legacy 3.6R/3.6RA excels as a all-weather family sedan or commuter car that prioritizes comfort and confident AWD performance over cutting-edge tech or extreme performance.
Potential drawbacks and caveats
As with any older vehicle, there are trade-offs to consider before buying a used Legacy 3.6R/3.6RA.
- Less modern infotainment and driver-assistance technology compared with newer sedans.
- Fuel economy is modest for a midsize car, especially with all-wheel drive and the larger engine.
- Maintenance and replacement parts for older Subarus can be pricier than some mainstream rivals, depending on where you live and the vehicle’s history.
- Some wear items—suspension components, wheel bearings, CV joints, and cooling system parts—may show age-related deterioration and require attention.
- Rust, especially on older examples from harsher climates, and paint/trim wear are common concerns in high-mileage cars.
Overall, the drawbacks are manageable with careful shopping, thorough inspection, and a solid maintenance history, but they do color the ownership costs of an older model.
What to check when buying a used Legacy 3.6R/3.6RA
To avoid common issues and ensure you’re getting a solid example, use this checklist when evaluating a used Legacy 3.6R/3.6RA.
- Verify the exact model and year, and confirm the drivetrain (AWD) and transmission type.
- Review maintenance records, with emphasis on the cooling system, timing chain (not belt-driven), water pump, and transmission service.
- Inspect for oil leaks around the engine, valve covers, and oil pan; check for white smoke or coolant leaks that could indicate head gasket concerns (less common on the 3.6 but still worth checking).
- Test the automatic transmission for smooth shifts, or note any slipping, shudder, or delayed engagement.
- Assess the AWD system and drivetrain components, including CV joints, driveshafts, and rear differential for wear or noise.
- Evaluate suspension, steering, and braking for unusual noises, clunks, or excessive play.
- Check for rust on the undercarriage, wheel wells, and frame rails, especially in salted or humid climates.
- Look for recalls and ensure they’re addressed; verify with the VIN against official recall databases.
- Assess interior wear, electronics, and climate control; infotainment may feel dated compared with newer cars.
Bottom line: a thorough pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by a qualified mechanic familiar with Subarus is highly recommended to confirm the condition of the engine, transmission, and AWD system.
Maintenance and ownership costs
Understanding ongoing costs helps gauge long-term ownership viability for a used Legacy 3.6R/3.6RA.
- Regular maintenance typically includes oil changes, filter replacements, brake service, and tire rotation on schedule.
- Cooling system upkeep (radiator, hoses, water pump) is important to prevent overheating, especially on higher-mileage examples.
- Engine components such as the water pump and thermostat are common wear items; wiring, sensors, and exhaust components may also need attention as the car ages.
- Fuel costs will be higher than smaller, more modern sedans due to the 3.6L engine and AWD.
- Insurance premiums for older, high-mileage vehicles vary, but expect higher rates if the car lacks modern safety tech.
Ownership costs hinge on maintenance history, mileage, climate, and how well the vehicle has been cared for. A well-maintained example with solid records can remain a reliable daily driver, though older cars inevitably require more frequent attention.
Verdict
If you value all-wheel drive, a smooth and quiet V6-like experience, and a roomy cabin for a reasonable price in the used-car market, the Legacy 3.6R/3.6RA is a credible pick. It may lag behind newer sedans in fuel economy and contemporary tech, but it offers lasting comfort, predictable AWD performance, and a straightforward, durable powertrain when properly maintained. The key is to buy a well-documented example with a clean maintenance history and to budget for routine, age-related upkeep.
Summary
Bottom line: the Subaru Legacy 3.6R/3.6RA is a solid used option for buyers who prioritise all-wheel drive, interior space, and smooth power over cutting-edge tech or the latest fuel efficiency. Verify the exact trim and year, get a thorough inspection, and plan for maintenance costs common to aging Subaru models. With careful shopping, it can be a dependable, comfortable daily driver for years to come.
