Test Vehicle:
2005 Subaru Legacy GT Limited
Engine Size and Type: 2.5-liter horizonatally-opposed four-cylinder engine
Engine Horsepower: 250 at 6,000 rpm
Engine Torque: 250 at 3,600 rpm
EPA Fuel Economy (city/highway): 19/25
Competitors: Audi A4 2.0 quattro, BMW 325xi, Chrysler 300 AWD, Dodge Magnum AWD, Ford Five Hundred AWD, Infiniti G35x, Jaguar X-Type, Mazda mazdaspeed 6, Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4Matic, Mercury Montego AWD, Volkswagen Passat 4Motion, Volvo S60 AWD

Frequently Asked Questions:

What's new for the 2005 Subaru Legacy?
For 2005, the Subaru Legacy is all new, the fourth generation of Legacy in North America. Subaru's midsize sedan is about 2 inches longer outside, with a redesigned interior. The 2.5i and 2.5i Limited models run with a 168-hp boxer four-cylinder while GT and GT Limiteds get a turbocharged, 250-hp four.

What are the 2005 Subaru Legacy's plus/minus factors?
All-wheel-drive traction and 250-hp action lead the upside for GT models, with a dressier cabin a real bonus for Limiteds. Lack of a navigation system or other, optional electronic wizardry are potential downsides, and without a folding rear seat the Legacy limits what you can bring along.

Photos: © Dan Lyons 2005