Subaru redo: Better in so many ways

0 Comments | USA TODAY, June, 2004 | by James R. Healey

Subaru has just begun selling redesigned versions of its Legacy and Outback sedans and wagons -- a very big deal for Subaru because those are its bread-and-butter, high-volume models, and they were beloved as-is. Still, it has been evident they could be better. Now they are. A lot.

Legacy and Outback models are takes on the same sets of hardware. The big difference is that while all Subies have all-wheel drive, Outbacks have more than 8 inches of ground clearance for strenuous terrain; Legacy models have about 6 inches.

Power, size and desirability all are up on the '05 redesigns. But so is price. Many are $1,000 more than last year. That's a trade-off for vehicles made to be sold for their function and features, not necessarily their low price.

The test...