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 121 through 130 of 262.00
  • My Dream Car -- Outback 2.5 XT Limited - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    This car is very fun (and safe) to drive. Has firm and confident handling. Car is built tightly -- no rattles or noise of any kind -- except the growl of the turbo engine. Unbelievable pick up, especially compared to the 2003 Subaru I had last. The reduction in length makes it much easier to park. The passenger side accommodates very large people.

  • Green Bean - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I saw the car on the lot and fell in love with the color (Willow Green) for starters. Thought the flared fenders and rugged looks were awesome. I took it for a ride and the seamless power from 0 to 70 was awesome. It does have a few second delay when you step on it so If you are counting on the 250 horses to make up for the close pull out in traffic, think before you put your nose out there. The huge sunroof is a bit chattery when closed and almost impossible to have open while going over 50 from the wind noise. I tried to buy a sunroof deflector from the dealer and the one listed ONLY fits the sedan, not the wagon.

  • Subaru #6 - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Ive driven them all (yep, Ive had a De Soto); domestic, Japanese, German and American, and this make is the best bar none. The only brand Ive been able to consistently put 300k on since the Ford Falcon of the 60s. But this is a lot more fun. All Wheel Drive - its very addictive. The first time you squeeze a little too much out of a wet curve and you feel the Outback "hunker-down" and dig in its claws, youre hooked to the car like the car is hooked to the road.

  • Great Car on and off road - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I have had it for over a month now and it is a superb vehicle. I love the look and the drive. Really wanted to step up and buy the XT but decided I did not need extra horse power especially with the premium gas and sticker costs. Compared it with Infiniti G35x, BMW325x, Audi 1.8t, VW 4motion (primary competition was VW), for the price, performance and build Subaru wins hands down. The interior and the exterior asthetically has been improved to now make it a full on contender. With the snow we have had in New England it is a great car to own, glad I did not go for the Legacy which was cheaper after the 3 feet we got in Jan.

  • Best Subaru Ive owned - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    This is my 8th Subaru and I think its the best. The fit, finish, and power of this 2.5XT Limited is far superior to any previous Subaru Ive owned. Some minor complaints like no upfront interior lighting and relatively poor gas mileage and the requirement of premium fuel do not negate the pure "fun to drive" quality of this car. There are some annoying whistles that start at around 40mph but the removal of the cross bars on the roof might stop that problem. I bought the red garnet pearl with the taupe interior and manual transmission. Im surprised at how many people say what a handsome car it is and some young boys told me Ive got a "dope" car. Thats a good thing I hope.

  • Car of my dreams - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Its not often that a "practical" car is also a blast to drive. I live in the Great White North and this car is better in the snow that anything I have ever driven, including my former hulking 4WD SUV. The handling is great, braking is very quick and nimble but the best part is the interior - all the creature comforts I need like heated leather seats, HUGE moonroof and 6 disc CD. Highway gas mileage is 30 mpg with the 2.5i Ltd which is a 4 cylinder. The only drawback is the back seat - my two sons are 6 foot 4 so they are just a little squeezed for leg room unless the front seats are pushed forward but hey - they are both almost off to college anyway....then its all MINE.

  • Reliable - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Having owned a Subaru previously I was encouraged to buy another for its reliability. This one I like even more. It is comfortable, has a nice weight to it for highway driving, corners amazingly well for a four door car and has good pickup for a four cylinder auto. And I like the safety facto of the all wheel drive.

  • Couldnt Be Happier - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I owned my last car for over 10 years and I bought this with the intention of owning it just as long. This car has the best combination of utility, good mileage, low emissions, and safety (my priorities) that I could find...only the Forester came close. I was fully aware that to maximize these qualities I had give up a bit of power (Im not passing many cars when driving up to the mountains), but this was a trade-off I was more than happy to make. I went for the comforts of the Limited because I plan to have the car a long time - the sunroof and leather together made that decision worthwhile. Everything about the car exudes solidness and smart design. I couldnt be happier!

  • I cant wait until I trade it in - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    As a former Legacy owner, I planned on a Forester, but bought an Outback because the seats were far more comfortable. I regret my decision daily. The projector beam headlights are horrible - they create a dark "curtain" that dips up and down and cuts visibility. They also blind other drivers and I am constantly being flashed. There is steady wind noise on the drivers side. The tires are terrible - slid off the road in slush my first storm out. Shifts between gears too much. The rear window is high, angled and small and makes parking and backing up difficult. The back-up lights are not bright. No keyed trunk release! The seatbelt bell is a nuisance. So-so on fuel. I hate this car.

  • Great car - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Car has been great in rain, ice and snow. I have never been stuck. Comfortable seats and good view of the road. I am not looking for a race car but the four cylinder version needs more lower end torque.

Subaru Outback Reviews By Year:
Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area