Subaru’s Legacy Tourer has received a number of significant technical improvements and equipment upgrades for 2012 which have lowered running costs and environmental impact.

The most important change for 2012 is the fitting of Subaru’s next-generation Boxer diesel engine. This Euro 5-compliant power unit features a more efficient turbocharger, new exhaust-camshaft timing and lighter connecting rods, and is mated with new oxidation catalytic converters and Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).

The result is an improvement (compared to the previous Boxer diesel Legacy) in fuel economy of over seven per cent, to 49.6mpg (combined), while CO2 emissions are cut by up to 7.5 per cent, to 149 g/km.

All 2012 Legacy Tourer diesel models now have a CO2 rating below 160 g/km which ensures they will qualify for tax savings by the hirer (of 15 per cent) and the leasing company / business users (10 per cent) – enhancing the vehicle’s appeal to a wider audience.

The improvements in economy and emissions haven’t undermined the diesel-powered Legacy Tourer’s performance. Generating 147 ps at 3,600 rpm and 350 Nm between 1,600 and 2,400 rpm, the diesel unit powers the car from zero to 62 mph in 9.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 120 mph.

With the introduction of the 2012 models, the Legacy Tourer line-up in the UK offers buyers a choice of five versions with a diesel or petrol engine and three trim levels – depending on model. New Legacy Tourer prices start at £26,865 (OTR) and cover a £4,510 range.