I recently totalled my 99 legacy wagon with a manual transmission, and would like to switch to automatic, however I test-drove a 2004 wagon, prepared to love it, but found it to be loud and the shifting not too smooth, esp. between 3rd and 4th. I have driven a loaner Forester which I did not notice any problem with the automatic. I also don't mind the automatic in my rental or on others that I have driven. Anyone else notice this problem with the wagon? I need a new car immediately, but am now a little flustered. The Forester with sunroof is a little pricey compared to the Wagon special edition.