Editor-at-large Ron Kiino brought the
SUBARU LEGACY in to a local dealership for an upgrade. "I took the GT to Timmons
Subaru to have a short-throw shifter kit installed. The kit cost $444 and installation ran $210, for a total of $654. So far, I haven't noticed a big difference.
Subaru claims the kit 'significantly reduces shift-throw lengths.' Nope. Shift lengths do seem shorter, but it's very minor.
That said, the gearbox does feel a bit more precise, not quite as rubbery as before. I'm still having trouble, though, on the 5-4 downshift; I always get resistance when entering fourth from neutral.
For an owner, I would recommend this kit, as it isn't terribly expensive and its minor benefits will add up over the life of the vehicle. It does make me wonder, though: Why doesn't
Subaru just make this rather-cheap accessory standard?"
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Subaru Legacy GT Months/miles in service 12/19,050 Avg econ/CO2 22.9 mpg/0.85 lb/mi Unresolved problems None Maintenance cost $163.62 (1-oil change, inspection, rotate tires, replace cabin air filter) Normal-wear cost $0
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