Editors' Most Wanted Vehicles for 2005

Most Wanted Wagon Under $25,000

Winner: Dodge Magnum

Move over, Moms, this is a wagon that will get Dads fired up about driving carpool. With retro styling that crosses a family hauler with a '50s chop top, the Magnum is rapidly becoming a design icon. A low-slung roof and dark tinted windows give it a look unlike any other wagon. The Magnum is also the first Dodge vehicle to take advantage of the Daimler part of parent company DaimlerChrysler. By using a suspension setup similar in design to that of upper-class Mercedes sedans, the Magnum is able to deliver ride and handling qualities that rival many sedans, let alone other wagons. Add in an optional Hemi-powered V8 engine, and over 70 feet of cargo space, and we say leave the SUV in the garage.

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Honorable Mention: Subaru Legacy

For several years now, Subaru has been enjoying recognition for its active lifestyle Outback wagon, and has recently received numerous accolades for its sporty Impreza WRX models. Lost in the shadows, however, was the dependable yet unexciting Subaru Legacy. Finally the Legacy comes into its own, with the availability of both a normally aspirated four-cylinder engine and a turbocharged four-cylinder as well. The Legacy's interior has also been upgraded to offer the same sporty appeal as a German sedan. Now, as both a sleek and well-performing station wagon, the Legacy proves that family transportation needn't be wood-paneled and boring.

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