New styling brings Subaru modern look

2005 Subaru Legacy Click image for larger view

New Legacy and Outback models, which arrived in 2004 as 2005 vehicles, benefit from new styling that gives them a more modern look, with larger dimensions overall. Removing some of the body cladding from the Outback helps make it look more sophisticated.

In part to justify premium list prices that run to nearly $34,000 for the top-of-the-line Outback, Subaru added content and upgraded interior appointments in an effort to position these models as upscale midsized vehicles.

Standard power comes from a 2.5-liter, 168-horsepower four-cylinder engine. A turbocharged version that's available on newly added GT models jumps to 250 horsepower. On the Outback, which officially is classified as a light truck, a three-liter V6 that also produces 250 horsepower is offered.

As with all Subarus, the Outback and Legacy continue as all-wheel-drive models, with five-speed manual and five-speed automatic transmissions available.

-- Posted: Feb. 15, 2005