2005 Subaru Outback Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.44/5 Average
262 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

An all-new and vastly improved Outback is introduced in sedan and wagon body styles. Highlights include a new turbocharged engine, a stronger H6 motor, a stylish new interior and increased ground clearance for more serious off-highway adventures.

Pros:
  • 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.
Cons:
  • Desirable features reserved for top-line models, smaller backseat than most competitors.

User Reviews:

Showing 101 through 110 of 262.00
  • A Big Step Up for Subie - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Needed a second 4WD wagon – I drive an A4 Avant 1.8T – and this was the only good choice below $30K. Much better than last years. Roomy interior with sturdy upholstery, far nicer back end, decent power, killer turning radius. Its no Audi – I think its a little floaty at highway speeds, and nobody does interiors like Ingolstadt – but its darned fine for the dough and it feels plenty secure all the same. Cant wait for winter...

  • A lot of value for the money - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    We took this car off-road (St. Elmo, Tin Cup, Colorado) where you mostly saw only Jeeps. Performed like a dream. Also, fun to drive around town. This the sixth Subaru we have owned and we like the new interior and better transmission than our 98 Outback. For the money, you get excellent value.

  • To Subi or not to Subi, ....... question - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Very well performing station wagon that has a lot of utility. 250 HP is great, smooth transmission makes for a soft ride. 19 mpg is not great but a fair deal for the performance and utility received. Tire pressure sensors are sensitive and alarm the driver somewhat early. In fall and spring when night and daytime temperatures vary more than usual, the warning light goes of frequently. All in all a great car with full time all wheel drive. Ultimate control in every weather. Nothing slips, nothing slides. Great car.

  • headlights - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    low beams in rural areas look like a shade was pulled down to about 6 feet off the ground.headlights have 2 filiments in 1 bulb and to raise the low beams so you can rean street signs the high beams are directed into the sky. there is a coller around the bulb and it cuts off the top two thirds of the light.it is not as noticeable in the city because of the background lights.i contacted subaru at the suggeston of my dealer and after 2 calls was told they plan no corrective action. test this car at night and on rural roads-it is scarey!

  • Beauty, Brains & Muscle - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I had a 2001 Outback VDC. It was a very good car. I did have a few minor complaints that always prevented the car from being all it should be. I just bought the 2005 LL Bean Edition Outback and it now qualifies as EXCELLENT! The performance has been greatly improved, the ammenities are what you would expect from a $32000 vehicle, and the design (interior and exterior) is up there with the best from Europe. And it handles much, much better than a comparably equipped VW or Audi or Volvo...all of which cost significantly more. Overall, while not inexpensive, a great value!!!!

  • Never again, going back to Toyota! - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I bought this 2.5i Subaru Outback used about two and a half years ago, after totaling my previous car in a nasty rainstorm. The four wheel drive was barely needed overall (milder winters) and my gas mileage plummeted from the mid 30s per gallon (Camry) to more like 20 mpg, sometimes a rare 25 on the highway. Then an annoying clicking sound developed when I turned the wheel and, only two years into the vehicle, both axles were shot. Naturally, they were very expensive because they could not be after-market, only Subaru. Several mechanics told me this is not unusual for Subarus, and after I had to plunk down over $1,000 suggested I head back to Toyota-land.

  • This car is a great value - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    It makes the commute to work actually fun! Great performance and comfort.

  • New Subaru - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    So far the car has exceeded my expectations. Great ride and performance and too much fun to drive. Very impressed. I had test driven the Audi, and while they are a bit quieter, the cars are very close in quality and far apart in price.

  • Wow! - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Just traded in an anemic 200 Outback w/ the normal 2.5 for the new XT. This car shows that Subaru pays attention to detail, and acutally improves wht needs to be improved, and can leave the rest alone. This car is fast, handles great, outstanding comfort! It was more $$ than the old 2.5, but well worth it. This care GOES!

  • Life is good in the fast lane - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I told the sales guy I need a family car that will satisfy this middle age mans need for speed and style. This car is amazing - if I could custom design a car from the ground up, it wouldnt be much different than the Outback. The European manufacturers arent my style. This car is very styling without flaunting it. Sound system is decent.

Subaru Outback Reviews By Year:
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