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Any auto writer who has been at this game for any length of time comes to the realization that certain car companies are incapable of building dull cars. Subaru is one of the select in that regard. And so it was with considerable anticipation that we awaited delivery of our latest test car, a pre-production edition of the new 2005 Legacy 2.5 GT. We were not disappointed.

Part of the Legacy story for 2005 is design. You notice immediately the pronounced wedge body shape and how it conveys a feeling of stability. This is accentuated by aerodynamic side ground effects and standard 17-inch alloy wheels. The rear glass is slightly recessed in "sail panels" for a distinct rear appearance, as well as aerodynamic efficiency. The new Legacy design is not only sleeker to the eye, but in the wind tunnel, as well, where the sedan registers a coefficient of drag (Cd) of 0.28.

A functional hood scoop supplies outside air to the engine-mounted intercooler. And tailpipe tips extend from the dual-muffler exhaust system through bumper cutouts for a sporty flair. The wheelbase of the Legacy has been increased from 104.3 inches to 105.1 inches and overall length has been increased by just under two inches.

Another part of the Legacy story is safety. A car built to go fast should offer special protection for its occupants if something goes wrong. The 2005 Legacy is built on a new version of the company's proven Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame safety structure, features as standard equipment side impact air bags, new side curtain air bags and new intelligent dual-stage deployment front air bags.

For most enthusiasts, though, the real Subaru story will be performance. The Legacy 2.5 GT is powered by an intercooled and turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder boxer engine that produces 250 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm and 250 lb-ft. of torque @ 3,600 rpm. The engine shares architecture and technology with the engines used in other Subaru turbocharged performance models such as the WRX STi, but most key components — including the cylinder block, turbocharger and intercooler — are unique to the Legacy 2.5 GT.

Variable valve timing technology helps optimize low and mid-range torque and high-end output, and the Legacy 2.5 GT engine is characterized by a wide torque curve for plenty of power at all speeds. All Legacy engines for 2005 use an Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system, sometimes referred to as "drive by wire" or "throttle by wire."

Subaru offers a choice between a 5-speed manual transmission or an all new 5-speed electronic direct control automatic with a Sportshift feature for manual control. The automatic offers a higher degree of control in either automatic or manual mode. Using a lateral "G" sensor and cornering logic, the transmission is engineered to select and hold the appropriate gear the enhance cornering performance. The transmission will actively downshift to maintain optimal traction and control on inclines, as well. Our test car had the automatic and we had noting but praise for the way it operated in the real world.

Inside, the 2005 Legacy has also been completely redesigned with flash surface treatments, a soft foam upper dashboard, soft foam door trim and aluminum side sill covers emblazoned with the Subaru logo. The result is an interior that looks inviting and expensive. Standard equipment includes a dual-zone automatic climate control system, four-stage front seat heating and heated exterior mirrors. The MOMO-designed three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel features integrated Sportshift controls when the car is equipped with the automatic. The standard audio system includes a 120-watt AM/FM stereo, a 6-disc in-dash CD changer and six speakers. Larger controls and displays make the audio system easy to use, and all power window and seat switches are illuminated for convenience.

Best of all, we found everything to be in the right place for easy operation. In sum, Subaru has scored very high with the ergonomics of the new Legacy's interior.

It hardly needs to be added that the new Legacy features all-wheel drive. That has become a Subaru hallmark, and the new model offers no deviation from the successful formula.

We came away with a very positive feeling about this car. At a base sticker price of $26,570, it offers solid value for the money. There is nothing here to disappoint Subaru loyalists and much that should attract new customers to the Subaru fold. R&D