Hey guys! Let's dive into the heart of the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport – its engine. If you're curious about what makes this car tick, you're in the right place. We're going to break down everything you need to know about the engine's specifications, performance, and overall reliability. Buckle up; it's going to be an informative ride!

Overview of the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport Engine

The 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport is equipped with a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder boxer engine. This engine is part of Subaru's FB engine family, known for its horizontally opposed design, which gives it a lower center of gravity compared to traditional inline or V-shaped engines. This design contributes to the car's stability and handling. The engine delivers a respectable balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily driving. Generating around 175 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, it provides adequate pep for city commutes and highway cruising. The engine is paired with a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which helps optimize fuel economy and ensures smooth acceleration. Let's delve deeper into the specifics to really understand what this engine brings to the table.

Engine Specifications

When we talk about the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport's engine, diving into the nitty-gritty details is essential to appreciate what it offers. The engine is a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder, naturally aspirated boxer engine. The boxer configuration means the cylinders are arranged horizontally, lying flat on opposite sides of the engine block. Each cylinder has a bore of 94 mm and a stroke of 90 mm, resulting in a displacement of 2498 cc. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, totaling 16 valves. This configuration allows for optimized airflow and efficient combustion. The compression ratio is set at 10.3:1, contributing to its overall efficiency and power output. Subaru uses a multi-point fuel injection system, ensuring precise fuel delivery to each cylinder. The engine is designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline, making it convenient and cost-effective for daily use. The engine block and cylinder heads are made of aluminum alloy, reducing weight and improving thermal efficiency. All these specifications combine to create an engine that offers a balance of power, efficiency, and durability.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

The performance of the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport's engine is more than adequate for most driving situations. With 175 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 174 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm, it provides a smooth and responsive driving experience. The Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) plays a crucial role in optimizing both performance and fuel efficiency. The CVT allows the engine to stay in its optimal power band, providing smooth acceleration without the traditional gear shifts of a conventional automatic transmission. As for fuel efficiency, the 2017 Legacy Sport achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, making it a competitive choice in its class. These figures are particularly impressive when you consider that the Legacy comes standard with Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, which enhances traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. The engine's design and the CVT's efficiency contribute to a balanced and economical driving experience, perfect for daily commutes and long road trips alike.

Key Features of the Engine

The engine in the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport has several standout features that contribute to its overall appeal. First and foremost, the boxer engine configuration is a hallmark of Subaru vehicles. This design not only provides a lower center of gravity, improving handling and stability, but also helps reduce engine vibration. The dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder ensure efficient airflow and combustion, optimizing power and fuel economy. Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is another key feature that works in harmony with the engine. It provides enhanced traction and control, making the Legacy Sport capable in various driving conditions, from dry pavement to snow-covered roads. The engine's lightweight aluminum alloy construction improves thermal efficiency and reduces overall vehicle weight, further enhancing performance and fuel economy. The multi-point fuel injection system ensures precise fuel delivery, contributing to cleaner emissions and improved engine responsiveness. These features, combined with Subaru's reputation for reliability, make the 2017 Legacy Sport a compelling choice for those seeking a dependable and versatile sedan.

Boxer Engine Advantages

The boxer engine in the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport offers several unique advantages. The most significant is its horizontally opposed design, which results in a lower center of gravity for the vehicle. This lower center of gravity improves handling and stability, particularly during cornering and quick maneuvers. The boxer engine's design also inherently reduces vibration compared to inline or V-shaped engines, providing a smoother and more refined driving experience. Because the pistons move horizontally, they counterbalance each other, minimizing engine rocking and vibration. This design also allows for a flatter engine profile, which can contribute to better hood clearance and aerodynamic efficiency. Furthermore, the boxer engine's robust construction and efficient combustion characteristics contribute to its longevity and reliability. Subaru has a long history of using boxer engines, and their expertise in this design is evident in the engine's performance and durability. Overall, the boxer engine is a key differentiator for Subaru vehicles, offering a unique blend of performance, handling, and refinement.

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive (AWD) system is a defining feature of the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport, working seamlessly with the engine to provide exceptional traction and control. Unlike many other AWD systems that engage only when wheel slippage is detected, Subaru's system is always active, distributing power to all four wheels at all times. This constant engagement provides superior grip and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, and ice. The symmetrical design ensures that the power is distributed evenly from the engine to the wheels, minimizing torque steer and maximizing stability. The system utilizes a center differential to distribute power between the front and rear axles, with the ability to transfer more power to the wheels with the most grip. This enhances the vehicle's ability to maintain its intended path, improving safety and driver confidence. The combination of the boxer engine's low center of gravity and the symmetrical AWD system makes the 2017 Legacy Sport exceptionally stable and predictable, providing a driving experience that is both engaging and secure.

Common Issues and Maintenance

Like any car, the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport may encounter some common issues and requires regular maintenance to keep its engine running smoothly. One potential issue is related to the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which some owners have reported experiencing hesitation or unusual behavior. Regular fluid changes for the CVT are crucial to prevent these issues. The engine itself is generally reliable, but it's essential to adhere to the recommended maintenance schedule. This includes regular oil changes, typically every 6,000 miles, to ensure proper lubrication and cooling. Checking and replacing the air filter, spark plugs, and other wear items at the recommended intervals is also important. Some owners have reported minor oil leaks, particularly around the valve cover gaskets, so it's a good idea to inspect these areas periodically. Keeping up with scheduled maintenance not only helps prevent major problems but also ensures that the engine continues to deliver optimal performance and fuel efficiency. Regular inspections by a qualified mechanic can also help identify and address potential issues before they escalate.

Maintenance Tips

To keep your 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport's engine in top condition, follow these simple maintenance tips. First and foremost, adhere to the recommended oil change schedule. Using the correct type of oil is crucial for the boxer engine's longevity. Regularly check all fluid levels, including coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. Inspect the air filter and replace it as needed to ensure optimal airflow to the engine. Keep an eye on the condition of the spark plugs and replace them at the recommended interval to maintain efficient combustion. Regularly inspect belts and hoses for signs of wear or cracking, and replace them promptly if any issues are detected. Pay attention to any unusual noises or vibrations coming from the engine, as these could indicate a potential problem. If you notice any leaks, have them addressed immediately to prevent further damage. Finally, consider using a fuel system cleaner periodically to help keep the fuel injectors clean and functioning properly. By following these maintenance tips, you can help ensure that your 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport's engine continues to provide reliable and efficient performance for years to come.

Conclusion

So, to wrap things up, the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport's engine is a solid performer that balances power and efficiency quite well. The 2.5-liter boxer engine, combined with the symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, makes for a confident and capable driving experience. While it's not the most powerful engine in its class, it offers a unique blend of reliability and practicality. Regular maintenance is key to keeping this engine running smoothly, so be sure to follow the recommended service schedule. Overall, if you're looking for a dependable sedan with a unique engine design and all-weather capability, the 2017 Subaru Legacy Sport is definitely worth considering. Drive safe, guys!