Overview & Reviews

A navigation system has been added to the options list for 2006, and trim levels have been realigned. Non-turbo four-cylinder models get a bump in horsepower (now up to 175) thanks to a new variable valve-lift system.

• Standard all-wheel drive, generous standard equipment list, exemplary build and materials quality, strong power from turbo and H6 engines, balanced ride and handling dynamics, capable performance off-road.

• Automatic transmission upshifts too early, desirable features restricted to top-line VDC model, smaller backseat than most competitors.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 106.00

• 

  Not Too Impressed - 2006 Subaru Outback
  By John - April 4 - 5:06 pm

  After extensive research on the Internet I decided on this Outback 2.5i base model. Car looks very nice, is comfortable to drive and has nice handling and performance. Feels as safe as a tank to drive. However, the interior trim material is extremely poor. It has developed all sorts of intermittent squeaking and rattling (have to turn up the radio just to cover it up when driving). The dealer says all those noises are normal for this car. Also the engine is extremely loud at ignition, sounds like it is going to breakdown. I was expecting a great car when buying but ended up with just a good car. Also very poor gas mileage of 22 MPG on mixed driving. Car didnt meet my expectations.

• 

  Sure-footed, but incredibly unreliable - 2006 Subaru Outback
  By kbourdeau - October 13 - 9:12 am

  My 06 2.5i Ltd. (118,000 mi.) blew its head gaskets for the second time in less than 3 yrs. today. Replaced all 4 sets of wheel bearings at least once, broken front axle, wiring harness on back hatch, door handle, console cover broke off completely years ago, rear defrost never did work properly, etc. Never had a car in the shop as much as this one. Loved the traction - absolutely hated the total lack of quality in this vehicle. Not feeling the love... If you insist on a Subaru, but a model from 08 or newer - they are supposedly much more reliable.

• 

  Hate my Car - 2006 Subaru Outback
  By Sue - September 13 - 10:20 pm

  I was hoping my Outback would be a reliable, safe car for me and my kids to drive. This car has been a nightmare. The inside door panels had to be replaced because if you used the arm rest the fabric came up, the front seat handle broke off, the mud flap in the back was missing screws, the air conditioner made horrible sounds and had to be replaced, went through a "minor" puddle and had to have the car towed, abs and brake light comes on and to top it off the car died and oil began to come out of it. Roadside assistance wont come, unless I pay for the tow and have it towed to my house and then towed again in the morning to Subaru. Im so glad I bought this car -- NOT. What a LEMON!