saholz

Definitely going with the wagon. The extra storage capacity is a big advantage for me. As far as clearance, my daughter's driveway is rough and I have scraped the bottom of the Audi going in and out, but it's not a critical feature. The 2006 's should be available in a few weeks, at which point I'll take another test drive and make a decision. A similarly equipped A6 is around $46K...it's getting pretty hard to justify a $15K difference in price.

I like the front end design of the Outback over the Legacy, plus the increased ground clearance is an advantage in snow country...where I live. I think I'll have to go back and try the 2.5Gt Legacy so I can get a more objective impression. One thing I learned though, that little turbo is VERY impressive, regardless of which model it's in.

Well, my lease on my 2003 Audi A6 2.7T Quattro is coming to an end and I'm shopping for a new AWD vehicle. I don't care for the new Audis and have been seriously considering getting a 2006 Subaru in August or September. I test drove a couple yesterday and here's my impressions: A 3.0 Legacy sedan (auto) was okay, but not great. The power was certainly more than adequate, but far from thrilling. The steering felt very light on center and the whole car felt just a bit "floaty" to me. It definitely did not feel as tight as my Audi A6. This particular car also had a pronounced shimmy at speeds over 70 mph. I then took out a 2.5 turbo Outback auto wagon. The contrast was astounding. The steering was tight and responsive with none of the on center lightness that I felt with the 3.0 I drove. The "floatiness" in the suspension was gone and the whole packge felt really well buttoned down compared to the 3.0 Legacy. The turbo boost was pronounced, not as refined as the twin turbo A6, but very impressive. This car could be lots of fun to own. Here's what I don't understand. I know the XT package includes quicker steering and bigger brakes, but I see no mention of any suspension upgrades. Why did the 3.0 feel loose while the 2.5XT felt so tight? Given the shimmy I felt with the Legacy, I'm wondering if this car may have been out of alignment as well as being out of balance. I'm trying to decide whether or not to go with the Legacy or Outback right now...leaning towards the Outback. I'm pretty well sold on the turbo over the 3.0, but don't want to finalize anything based on one bad example. Any comments would be greatly appreciated. Also, any info on changes in packaging, colors, etc. for 2006? It sure would be nice if they offered satellite radio and memory seats for next year. I enjoy driving and want a car that's quick and handles. My other, rather seasonal ride, is a 2005 Corvette with the Z51 suspension package. I obviously don't expect that level of performance in a family sedan/wagon, but I still want something that's fun to drive. Thanks for any help. Stan