The Subaru Levorg stands out on Ugandan roads for its rarity, aggressive performance, and spacious interiors. Combining the looks of an Impreza and Legacy, this sports tourer offers a driving experience that is both fast and unique, but its exclusivity comes at a price.
The Subaru Levorg is one of the rare Subaru models seen on Ugandan roads. From the front, it may look like the Subaru Impreza; however, the rear bears a resemblance to the Subaru Legacy.
Ahmed Shakib Bakaawa, a car dealer at the Volvo Hub in Kampala, notes that the Levorg is rare due to its high price, ranging from Shs60m to Shs140m, significantly higher than most Subaru models available locally.
Engine, performance
The 2015 Levorg is powered by a 1600cc turbocharged engine and comes with a symmetrical all-wheel-drive system.
Alvin Nkini, a mechanic at Dalas Auto Limited in Kampala, who specialises in Subaru vehicles, explains that most Subaru models, including the Levorg, are Japanese-European cars originating in Japan. Their design and features, however, align more with European standards. Unlike brands such as Toyota, where cars are mass-produced and stored until sold, many Subaru models are assembled on demand.
‘It is hard to find a duplicate of a Subaru Levorg on the lot. One might have a Panasonic radio, while another has a Sony radio. This means each Levorg is often unique and customised,’ Nkini says.
The Levorg features a seven-speed automatic transmission. Aesthetically, it blends elements of both the Subaru Legacy and Impreza.
This was intentional, as Subaru aimed to combine the two models. When compared to the Impreza, especially the 2020 models onwards, the differences between the Impreza, Legacy, and Levorg become increasingly subtle.
Safety, features
Most post-2000 Subaru models come with a basic anti-lock braking system (ABS). However, some, like the Levorg, feature a more advanced Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system serving a similar function. Many features mirror the Subaru Legacy; for instance, the Levorg includes paddle shifters on the steering wheel, uncommon in other Subaru models.
Maintenance
While resembling both the Impreza and Legacy, the Levorg’s spare parts are scarce due to limited production. Few dealers stock them, meaning owners often source components directly from the manufacturer or online platforms like eBay and Amazon.
“Most of these cars are produced on order, which can discourage potential buyers due to maintenance challenges,” Nkini adds. “Performance-wise, they are fast, with aggressive styling and roomy interiors, similar to the Subaru Outback.”
History
According to beforward.jp, Subaru introduced the Levorg in mid-2014, a name combining LEgacy, reVOlution, and touring, built on the Legacy platform. The five-door, five-passenger hatchback sports tourer has two generations: 2014-2020 and 2020 to present. It was first unveiled as a pre-production concept at the 43rd Tokyo Motor Show in November 2013 and went on sale in Japan in May 2014 after Subaru began taking orders on January 4, 2014.
“Subaru announced the Levorg for Europe in February 2015, debuting it at the Geneva Motor Show in March. The 2020 Levorg V-Sport features a leather-wrapped steering wheel with silver stitching, front sports seats with fabric upholstery, chrome trim, and piano black detailing. Like its predecessor, it has ventilated disc brakes, 225/45 R18 tyres, and sports Bilstein dampers. Its added space, performance, and design make it an advanced wagon,” the portal explains.
Interior and comfort
The Levorg has a well-designed dash with a 5.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
The interface is user-friendly, with responsive control buttons on each side. It is very spacious, with a 522-litre boot and a wide-opening door for easy loading. Luggage hooks help secure items.
‘The dash includes a 5.9-inch LCD multifunction display, an instrument cluster with electro-luminescent gauges and a 3.5-inch colour LCD display, and a telescopic steering wheel with control buttons.
Other features include a heated rear window with timer, rear reclining and split-folding seats, eight-way power-adjustable driver seat, dual-zone automatic air conditioning with anti-dust filter, front centre console cup holder, and door pockets with bottle holders,’ the portal adds.
Extra features
The Levorg has evolved considerably since 2014. The second-generation model, launched in 2021 on Subaru’s Global Platform, improves crash safety, rigidity, and driving dynamics. It has a new 1.8L direct-injection turbo engine producing around 177 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque. Higher-end models feature electronically controlled dampers with selectable modes for comfort or sportier performance. All-wheel drive remains standard, ensuring stability across road conditions.
Safety has also improved. The latest Levorgs include EyeSight driver-assist technology, some offering EyeSight X with semi-autonomous features like lane keeping, automated speed control, and hands-off assist in traffic. Earlier Levorgs performed well in safety tests, achieving Euro NCAP 5-star ratings with adult occupant protection scores up to 92 percent.
Practicality is strong. The 2021 Levorg increased boot capacity to 561 liters, up from 522 L, while dimensions grew slightly to 4,755 mm in length and a 2,670 mm wheelbase. Older models could tow up to 1,500 kg.
Owners have reported minor issues: paint quality can fade, infotainment systems on older models may lag, CVT transmissions require regular maintenance, and suspension stiffness can be noticeable, though enthusiasts often upgrade springs or dampers for smoother rides.
Overall, the Levorg combines performance, safety, and practicality, but its rarity and high-spec features make careful maintenance and sourcing parts crucial, especially for Ugandan owners.