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 131 through 140 of 262.00
  • swell subaru for the dough - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    one of the most impressive handling cars for its price,about 30000 and awd to boot.Owned lots of sport sedans but this wagon really takes the cake.I get more impressed every day and lots of opportunity to put this machine through the moves with my 85 mile commute on back country Connecticut roads.The 250 hp boxer is a marvel and the response is even and seamless,it even has shifters on the mo-mo wheel for hands on driving.I have never had a Subaru before and was I in the dark about this value car!!!!move over Audi and save the dough for a nice cruise when you need away time.Fit and finish are nice and creature comforts abound.Its a must drive auto.........

  • A good vehicle for active people - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    One immediate benefit is that one steps in, not down into or up into this car. For handicapped or elderly this is immensely helpful. Nice cab proportion and good cargo area layout accommodates everything from the family dog to a kayak if so desired. It is a surefooted vehicle with adequate power even in Southern California freeway traffic. Very quick steering reaction, good control.

  • Wont get burned again. - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Bought an Outback summer of 2005. Came highly recommended by everyone I talked to. I have no idea why. Had to realign at 5000 mi and I hit nothing. OEM tires shot at 20000 miles. Replaced with cheap Cooper tires, ride and handling better than OEM Bridgestones. Seats are very uncomfortable and back seat is way too small. Gas mileage is good (26 to 28 very careful hwy, no A/C) but if you add a roof carrier and bike rack, drops to 23 to 24 mpg. Car is underpowered. Also, the Outback is not an SUV or truck. Not durable.

  • Great in the snow - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Great in the snow.

  • LOVE this car! - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Ive had the car for a month now and LOVE it. Everyone who rides in it cant believe it is a base model and how much it costs. It really feels like a luxury car. I went from a minivan to an Outback Wagon and the space has not been an issue as of yet. I have 2 kids in car seats and can fit a third booster seat in the middle in a pinch. Power is sufficient for me and have only felt a very slight lag when the car is loaded with firewood and all seats full with folks. Best feature - cuts through snowy roads like butter! 7" yesterday was no problem for this car. We are now die hard Subaru family and would never purchase anything else. My husband is looking at the Impreza or Outback Sport.

  • love it - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    This car is a pleasure to drive.The comfort is soft and plush but the build is tough and stable on bumps and turns.This vehicle did awesome in snow.I love the power of the 3.0 250 hp. The engine is smooth quiet and quick.

  • 1st Japanese car - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    We traded an 03 Z-71 Tahoe w/ some reluctance due to satisfaction w/ that vehicle but, desiring better mpg, opted for the Outback Ltd. 2.5 XT(turbo). After a few days, I was driving and literally burst out laughing w/ delight. What a cool vehicle! Fast, fun, comfortable--absolutely no comparison to a thirsty, lumbering Tahoe. I now intend to trade my A4 w/ only 14k miles in on a Legacy GT. The Outback will smoke the 3.0 Audi. Still cant believe such a vehicle is available for such a low price (relatively speaking).

  • On Velvet Rails - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Ride/handling is superb,like riding on velvet covered rails. Power is ample, even w/ A/C on, to pass on the turnpike or climb a steep hill. Excellent controls for air, dash lights, wipers, etc. The radio is awesome but the steering wheel arrows move you to the next station, not the next preset, as Ive had in the past. The sunroof opens real deep, and with the windows open, it is like riding in a convertible. Over all, it is the ride that makes the best impression.

  • 2005 Outback rocks....! - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I was amazed at how smooth and refined this vehicle is. I have the option of picking many kinds of vehicles (this is a company lease car for my use), and I was not disappointed in the Subaru. I got the 05MY Outback VDC with the 3.0L H6/5sp auto transmission. This car has one of the best rides in any vehicle Ive been in (including Mercedes, Audis, BMWs, Lexi, etc.), and handles really well on twisty roads also. The H6 engine is super-smooth, and is a good match for the car, although a little low on torque. The interior is super- comfortable and quiet. The trim is also top-notch. I cant get over how nice this car is...highly underrated.

  • Worst car ever owned - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    My 2005 Outback is a money pit. I guess I got a lemon. Does the mfg. replace lemons? Head gaskets need to be replaced (poor design). I have had to replace both front axles, CV joints, hubs right rear and front, bushings bearings, etc...... already put $2000 in and expecting to layout another $2000 (no joke). I would recommend buying a HONDA. Oh yeah my father in law bought a new outback and already had to replace front right CV. At least his was under warranty. Maybe I am the isolated anomaly but it still hurts.

Subaru Outback Reviews By Year:
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