The 3.0-liter horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine produces 212 horsepower and 210 pounds-feet.

Subaru represents many good things, but it has never been known for making beautiful cars. However, the clean lines and short overhangs of the Legacy give it a purposeful look. The more time we spent with it, the more its looks grew on us. Subaru's designers have come up with an attractive profile that looks at home among its European competitors.

A high trunk line on the sedan lends a distinctive look, aids aerodynamics and increases cargo capacity; while a low hood line gives the Legacy a wedge-shaped stance. All the door windows are frameless, which is quite unusual in a four-door sedan and gives the car the sporty look of a coupe. Simple cladding along the middle of the doors and along the sills adds character. The front of the car features a big grille and large headlights that fit flush with the bodywork.

Exterior door handles are small. But you don't need a rope ladder to hoist yourself into the cabin.

Wagons are the most popular Legacy models sold in the U.S. There is little difference between the sedan and station wagon other than carrying capacity and appearance.

All of the Outback wagons share chunky, functional styling. The front grille and bumper are new for 2003, but retain a beefy appearance. Broad body cladding from mid-door downward dominates the profile. Dressy alloy wheels add a dash of flash. The rear view features wraparound taillights and a cut-down bumper into which the hatchback door is neatly recessed.

Outback sedans are far more rarely seen than Outback wagons. The heavy body cladding on the Outback sedan looks a little less natural than on the wagon, like wearing a three-piece suit and hiking boots.

The interior of the Subaru Legacy is clean with nice detailing. The driving position is comfortable. The front seats adjust to fit most any size passenger. Visibility is good in all directions with the exception of straight back, where the view is hindered somewhat by the trio of headrests perched atop the back seat. Switchgear and controls are easy to reach and uncomplicated to use. The large tachometer and speedometer and the smaller fuel gauge and water temperature gauge are well shaded and easy to read in all lighting conditions.

The Legacy dash is covered in a nice black and gray plastic trim with a heavy grain finish. The Special Edition model has imitation wood paneling. The shifter surround is an attractive piece finished to look like brushed aluminum. The leather-wrapped steering wheel feels comfortable.

The Outback VDC's cabin is very nicely appointed as well. The VDC boasts leather-trimmed seating, an eight-way power adjustable driver's seat, Momo steering wheel, automatic climate control and a high-line sound system. Manufactured by McIntosh Audio (known to audiophiles for their premium home stereo components) the system feeds 200 watts of power through seven speakers. The AM/FM/weather-band receiver houses a six-disc CD changer. The retro-looking faceplate stands out in a crowd, as does the exceptional sound quality. The interior of the Outback L.L. Bean is upholstered in two-toned leather with wood trim, and bears the logo of the Freeport, Maine, outfitter. Available seat heaters are welcome when the weather is icy.

There is room enough for two adults in back (three in a pinch), though six-footers will find rear leg room in short supply, especially if the front-seat passengers are similarly long of limb. The rear seats are firm and supportive.

Cargo space behind the wagon's 60/40 split folding back seat is plentiful, measuring 68.6 cubic feet with rear seats folded and 34.3 cubic feet with all seats in place. Lift-over height in back is low, affording easy access to cargo through the hatch. A retractable cover shields the contents from inquiring eyes. The available cargo mats are well-designed, reminding us of some of the best aftermarket mats.

Sedans have a pass-through hole from the trunk behind the arm rest in the center of the back seat, but we found it hard to open. The sedan's rear seats do not fold down. Also, there's no remote trunk release on the key fob.

The Legacy Special Edition and GT wagons, and Outback VDC and L.L. Bean wagons feature an unusual dual power moonroof. The front section pops up; the back opens and closes fully.

If you live where there's lots of snow and rain, and you enjoy driving, then take a test drive in the Subaru Legacy. Even if you're not a professional rally driver, you'll find you can travel more safely in foul conditions with Subaru's all-wheel drive.

The Outback can conquer the worst road conditions, and the Outback Wagons continue to serve as sensible alternatives to big, heavy sport-utility vehicles. They are practical, comfortable, useful vehicles.

The VDC and L.L. Bean models inject power, luxury and enhanced traction into the relentlessly sensible Subaru lineup. Six-cylinder engines increase performance while the latest electronic stability control systems improve safety. Loaded with features, these top two models are pricey, however.

The best values in the Outback lineup remain the less expensive and highly competent four-cylinder models.

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