When a Japanese car is described as a performance machine with impressive handling and luxurious appointments, one may think of an Acura or Infiniti, and rightly so. But add in all-wheel-drive capability and thoughts immediately jump to Subaru. Put all those attributes together and the result is the 2006 Subaru Legacy GT Spec B.

It’s hard to believe that the same company that builds this loaded sports sedan once offered basic front-wheel-drive hatchbacks and the quirky Brat pickup. Today, Subaru is a brand focused on moving upmarket with its lineup, all of which comes standard with all-wheel drive. This mindset is clearly evidenced by the new Spec B, a sleek four-door with loads of power, a sophisticated suspension, reassuring safety features, and an inviting leather interior. Throw in a navigation system, an MP3 player, and power heated seats, and you can almost hear the growing murmur of “Subaru” in the offices of Acura and Infiniti.