2004 SUBARU LEGACY NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2004 Subaru Legacy?
Subaru marks its 35th year in the U.S. with a Legacy anniversary edition that includes a power driver’s seat and moonroof, 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, leather-wrapped steering wheel and special badges inside and out. The inline-four boxer engine is now Partial Zero-Emissions Vehicle (PZEV) rated.

Advantages of the 2004 Subaru Legacy:

• All-wheel drive
• Dexterous handling
• Sport suspension enlivens drive
• Very good crash test scores

Objections to the 2004 Subaru Legacy:

• Not very practical as midsize station wagons go, with small cargo area
• Rear seat suited more for two than three
• Interior materials could use some luxing up
• Sport suspension adds up to a rough ride

Editor's Advice:
The 2004 Subaru Legacy, in sedan and wagon form, isn’t as rambunctious as some of its stablemates, such as the Subaru Baja or the Impreza WRX, but it serves well as a practical sedan or wagon that enjoys a long-standing reputation for durability. The Subaru Legacy’s biggest advantage is its standard all-wheel drive, which adds surefootedness to your travels whether in slippery road conditions or during spirited driving on a curvy highway. However, the interior is rather plain and competitors, such as the Volkswagen Passat, often provide a suppler ride, more posh cabin materials and a larger rear seat and cargo area. Subaru is launching a redesigned, better performing and more upscale Legacy for 2005.