2005 Subaru Legacy GT

Subaru has really gotten its game on, and the popularity of the original Impreza WRX has proven more than a fad. The company has done a good job of populating the rest of its lineup with similar enthusiasm and performance. The new-for-2005 Legacy is one such example and an important one, as it forms the heart of Subi's sedan, wagon, and Outback lineup. Previous Legacy models always were nice drivers, if a bit quirky and/or staid. Our handsome new Legacy GT Limited came coated in a succulent hue called Garnet Red Pearl, with Black Leather interior. We chose a $1200 five-speed automatic transmission with Sportshift as our only option. This transmission offers manumatic-shifting control on the floor or steering wheel.

The bottom line for our newest one-year tester came to $30,270 with $575 in destination charges. One logbook comment: "What's not to like about the new Legacy? The 2.5-liter turbocharged engine offers outstanding midrange torque. The AWD system is seamless in operation with impressive traction in foul weather--including aggressive mountain-road driving in the rain." Not everyone is as thrilled with the price point, but the car does pack a lot of technology and creature-feature content. Our first scheduled service (at 3000 miles) came and went with nary a concern and included an oil and filter change along with the usual visual inspections for $38.13.