2005 Subaru Outback and Legacy: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Subaru redesigns its midsize cars for 2005, giving them new styling, additional features, and more power. Exterior dimensions grow fractionally. Both the Legacy and the SUV-flavored Outback come in sedan and wagon form. They share the same platform, but the Outback has a slightly raised suspension. All-wheel drive is again standard, as are horizontally opposed engines. Legacy and Outback 2.5i models have a 168-hp 2.5-liter 4-cyl and come with manual transmission or 4-speed automatic. Legacy 2.5 GT and Outback 2.5 XT models have a new turbocharged version of that engine with 250 hp. They come with manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic with manual shift gate and steering-wheel-mounted shift buttons. Topping the line are the Outback 3.0 R sedan and wagon. They have a 3.0-liter 6-cyl engine with 250 hp, up from 212, and come only with the 5-speed automatic. Standard on all Legacys and Outbacks are antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, front side airbags, and head-protecting curtain side airbags. The Outback 3.0 R VDC Limited wagon adds an antiskid system. Available features include leather upholstery, heated front seats, woodgrain interior trim, automatic climate control, and heated windshield wipers.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Midsize Cars represent the heart of the U.S. car market. Most are price-sensitive, conservatively designed, family oriented sedans and wagons.

Our Best Buys include the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Our Recommended picks include the Chevrolet Malibu, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mazda 6, Nissan Altima, and Subaru Outback and Legacy.