A 2005 redesign means there are few changes to the 2006 Subaru Legacy. Available as a sedan or wagon, the Legacy features an impressive all-wheel drive system, that is either continuous, active, or variable depending on your transmission choice. The 2006 Legacy comes in base 2.5i, 2.5i Limited, 2.5i Special Edition, GT Limited, and the new for 2006 GT Limited Spec.B, which is more sports performance-oriented. All feature the boxer 2.5-liter flat-4 engine. The turbo GTs rate at 250-hp, and the non-turbo get a minor boost to 175-hp this year. A 5-speed manual is standard on all, with an optional 4-speed auto on the non-turbo and a 5-speed auto tran with Sportshift on the GTs. All 2006 Legacys comes with ABS brakes, side and curtain airbags, but no stability or traction control. Other additions for 2006 include an optional navigation system on the GT Limited, and 17-inch alloy wheels for the non-turbos.
The GT Limited Spec.B offers a sports suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels, a 3-spoke steering wheel, side ground effects with chrome trim, standard navigation system, and a silver metallic color. It only comes with the manual transmission. Other Legacys are well equipped. As you move up from the base model, leather trim, auto climate control, power front seats, a sunroof, and fog lights become standard. Heated leather seats, a popular option, are standard on the turbos. Highlights for the 2006 Legacy is its all-wheel drive capability in snow, the quiet and smooth ride and feel, the powerful turbo, and the list of standard features. The car looks big, but feels light on the road thanks to aluminum parts. Negative comments point out that rear seats don't fold, the rear legroom is tight, there is some turbo lag, and the GTs take premium gas.