2005 Subaru Legacy

Pros: Refinement, power, short-throw shifter, high-speed handling, chassis stability

Cons: Rear seat room, engine could be thrustier/smoother below 3000 RPM, steering could be quicker

The Bottom Line: If you want a high-performance all-wheel-drive car, and cannot afford an Audi S4, this is the one. Just be sure to get the manual.

Review: A few months ago when I reviewed an Outback wagon with the non-turbo four and an automatic transmission I was impressed with the car’s refinement and interior quality, but disappointed by the its performance and rear seat. Ultimately I gave the car a ...

Pros: WRX-like turbo thrust, firm steering, surefooted handling, light and airy interior, rich materials.

Cons: Feels less insulated and substantial than some rivals, needs optional short-throw shifter.

The Bottom Line: A remarkable transformation from the previous model, the Legacy 2.5 GT is suddenly one of the most compelling cars in the 30K sports-sedan class.

Review: My Experience I recently attended a ride-and-drive event hosted by Road & Track magazine. At the event, I got to drive three sport-luxury sedans on autocross-style tracks--three cone courses laid out at Alameda Point naval station. The vehicles ...

Pros: Powerful, refined, punchy turbo engine Stable "sports car-like" handling Great manual shifter

Cons: Rear seat room Could use a better audio system Gas mileage could be improved

The Bottom Line: The best Sport Sedan available under $45,000

Review: For three long and happy years, I owned a 2002 BMW 330ci Coupe with Sports Package (larger tires, M-Series suspension, sport seats) and 5-speed. I put 84,000 miles on the 330ci over a 3-year lease. I drove it every day on a twisty New England highway ...

Pros: Sleek, stylish, excellent in all weather driving

Cons: Back seat space is a little cramped

The Bottom Line: A great car from a really fine company

Review: I traded my old Subaru wagon for this sedan, buying it new. I've had it 1 1/2 years now and it has been a fantastic vehicle in all respects. Yes, I live in snow country, and yes, the great handling on the road is a major factor for me. But this car is ...

Pros: Safe and sound, great to drive, reliable

Cons: Some accessories are flimsy

Review: I have had this car (Wagon version) for two years and it's a great vehicle. It feels safe, handles great and the performance is good enough for me (it has a manual transmission). Some of the accessories are a bit flimsy and there is a bit of rattle noise ...

Pros: Beautiful paint. Amazing pick up.Great handling.Lush interior. Safety features. Short throw shifter. Options galore.

Cons: Headlamps are unusual. Soft brakes.Expensive, but it lists for $31,000 & I purchased for $28,000.

Review: I've been driving eclipses since 1990. Had two, adored them both. But when I needed a replacement, I found that the third generation mitsu isn't all that. The nearest replacement I could find was the 2005 Legacy Ltd., because of the turbo, leather ...

Pros: Interior Quality, Incredible handling, powerful and refined boxer engine, great steering feel, a.w.d.

Cons: Large price, non-adjustable arm rest, dead pedal position, non-linear power delivery, turbo lag

The Bottom Line: A great driving car for those who have previously shied away from Subaru's

Review: I must admit that I have never been a big fan of Subaru’s. I always thought they were frumpy looking, boring cars that sold themselves based on the availability of A.W.D. Several people in my family over the years have purchased Subaru’s, and ...

Pros: Fast, sporty styling, fits 4 people comfortably.

Cons: Fuel consumption, uses premium fuel, expensive replacement tires.

The Bottom Line: Get this car if you are looking for something fun to drive but also provides functionality.

Review: After my long search for a car, I was a former SUV owner, I settled on the 2005 Subaru Legacy GT 2.5 Limited AT. I found this gem of a deal in off of a used lot and I just couldn't pass it up. Although preferable in the MT due to the sportiness of this ...

Pros: Fun to drive, great performance and handling, comfortable drivers seat.

Cons: Some design flaws (see full review), no XM radio option.

The Bottom Line: Despite the annoyances, I love to drive this car. I would still recomend it (with a few reservations), but I hope they improve the 2006 model.

Review: I leased a 2005 Legacy 2.5 GT in mid September 2004. I am writing this review in early April 2005, with just over 11,000 miles on the car. First the positive: As I anticipated, this car is just a blast to drive. It's got loads of power, it hugs the ...

Pros: Safe, Comfortable, AWD!

Cons: tiny oil filter but I just buy a bigger aftermarket one instead (NAPA Gold).

The Bottom Line: A capable AWD car for curvy roads, to winter days, good on mileage and safe

Review: I considered this car because it fulfilled my requirements for what I needed it for which was a road-warrior car. I travel a lot for business, upwards of thousands of miles a week. I'm a big fan of european All-wheel-drive cars but am just starting my ...