2005 Subaru Legacy

Subaru has clawed its way to increasing market prominence with all-wheel-drive traction and WRX-fueled enthusiasm. Both forces will propel the fourth-generation Legacy line to more shopping lists than ever, though the reborn sedans and wagons are so much more.

Like its midsize competition, the all-new Legacy grows incrementally in size with its latest generation; the wheelbase edged from 104.3 inches to 105.1, length stretched 1.8 inches, and height nudged up .4 inches. However, width decreased .6 inches to 68.1.

To offset the larger shadow and longer content roster, the new Legacy line was engineered with an eye to reduce weight through increased use of aluminum and high-strength steel in the unibody structure. Aluminum was also employed for the hood, bumper beams, and rear wagon gate to shave pounds at the further ends of the cars where its impact is greatest. Further savings were found in the construction process, using tailored-blank welding and hydroforming, resulting in the 2005 models weighing 180 pounds less than comparable 2004 models.

Where weight is positioned plays a critical role in dynamic performance, inspiring engineers to mount the engine 22mm lower than last year's model and also to reconfigure the hefty washer fluid reservoir to position it lower.

Despite shaving pounds on its high-protein diet, the new Legacy boasts a stiffer platform prepared to better protect passengers and ready for enthusiastic driving. A "ring-shaped reinforcement frame" essentially uses a series of structural rings to shield occupants during a collision, with the side roof rails, lower side sills, A/B/C pillars, side-impact beams, energy-dispersing front structure, and larger cross-section frame members all teaming together. Most of these protective measures are hidden to the driver, but items such as a second, low-mounted rear-door catch reveal themselves as extra, defensive features.