Which Subaru Legacy has a turbo?
In short, the turbocharged Legacy models were the mid-2000s Legacy GT (often labeled as 2.5GT) and, later, the 2010–2014 Legacy 2.5GT in the U.S. market. As of the latest model years, Subaru’s Legacy lineup does not offer a factory turbo version in the United States. Outside the U.S., some markets did offer turbo variants such as the Legacy 2.0XT or similar turbo trims during different generations.
Turbo Legacy models in the United States
The following list outlines the main turbocharged Legacy variants that were officially sold in the U.S., along with the era they occupied the market.
- 2005–2009 Subaru Legacy GT (2.5GT): A turbocharged 2.5-liter flat-four engine paired with sportier suspension and styling cues.
- 2010–2014 Subaru Legacy 2.5GT: Continuation of the turbocharged 2.5-liter setup under a refreshed body and trim levels, offering similar performance enhancements as the earlier GT version.
These models represent the core factory-turbo Legacy offerings in the United States. Since the mid-2010s, Subaru has not continued with a turbocharged Legacy in the U.S. lineup; current Legacy variants use naturally aspirated engines (2.5-liter or, in older years, a non-turbo 3.6-liter). For buyers seeking turbo performance today, the WRX or other turbocharged Subaru models are typically the alternatives.
Turbo Legacy models in other markets
Beyond the United States, Subaru occasionally offered turbo-focused Legacy variants in select regions. These were not part of the U.S. Legacy lineup, but they did exist in some generations and markets with different engine configurations.
- Legacy 2.0XT (turbocharged 2.0-liter engine) in various international markets during the mid-2000s to early 2010s.
- Other regional turbo trims occasionally referenced in Europe/Japan with turbocharged engines, depending on model year and market regulations.
Because these regional turbo models were not sold or widely identical to U.S. specifications, buyers in the United States typically encounter the Legacy turbo option only through import considerations or historical references to international markets.
What to know if you want a turbo Legacy
If you’re pursuing a turbo Legacy experience today, pay attention to model year documentation, regional availability, and aftermarket considerations. Factory turbo Legacy models are relatively rare in the U.S. and can carry higher maintenance costs due to turbo components and potential age-related wear. For many buyers, a later-generation non-turbo Legacy paired with performance-oriented aftermarket upgrades or a different Subaru model (such as the WRX) may be a more practical route.
Key considerations for potential buyers
- Vehicle history and maintenance records are crucial for turbocharged engines, which can carry higher repair costs as they age.
- Fuel economy and insurance costs may be higher for turbo models compared to naturally aspirated versions.
- Availability of parts and expertise varies by market and model year; ensure you have access to a technician familiar with Subaru turbo systems.
Summary: The turbocharged Subaru Legacy chapters primarily live in the mid-2000s Legacy GT 2.5GT generations (and briefly into the 2010–2014 2.5GT in the U.S.). Outside the U.S., turbo variants such as the 2.0XT appeared in certain markets, but factory turbo Legacy offerings are not part of the current U.S. lineup. If turbo performance is essential today, consider the WRX or similar models, or explore regional import options with careful due diligence.
