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 161 through 170 of 262.00
  • Turn off the Alarm Please! - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    For a first time new car buyer, the Subaru Outback is great! The only thing I dont like is the seatbelt safety bell rings constantly when the car is running and you are not even in the car. The alarm goes off when no one is in the passenger seat because it was kicked back too far. The drivers seat even went off when I was driving down the highway and buckled up. That was scary! The other thing was that the rubber molding in the rear wheel well fell off. It needs more behind the seats pockets for holding goodies. The glove box never shuts on the first try.

  • A 3 Year Review of the Outback XT - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I have put about 42,000 miles on my black on black Outback XT that I leased brand new. This is a great wagon for hauling your junk around. I only had one trip to the dealer for any warranty issues, and that issue was a minor wiring fix. The turbocharged engine has plenty of power on tap. Amazingly, the OEM tires (Potenza) still have decent tread remaining. I average 22 MPG with 75% highway miles and a heavy foot. Drives great in the snow although it does have a tendency to fishtail. I would surely buy one again.

  • Best Ive Ever Owned - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Great overall value as with previous Subarus Ive owned, but very refined. Compares favorably to an Audi A4 Quattro in performance, features and comfort, but it was $10-12k less. Full-time AWD is seamless and sure, and the 6 cyl boxster engine with the Auto stick trans is great for both performance and convenience, but I still get 26-29 mpg in mixed driving. In almost 60k on the odo, not a single maintenance issue. I know all cars are getting better all the time, but Ive owned dozens of every type and major brand over 38 years, and this is the best ever for me. Im keeping this one, but if I had to trade, Id swap for a newer version of the same.

  • What a wonderful car - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I love this car. Its easily the best car Ive ever owned.

  • My new SUV - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Coming out of our SUV we looked at, and drove several cars. I passed on my chance forthe Infiniti G35x so my wife could have her wagon, so far we not been disapointed. And, the 2005 Outback seems to turn more heads than I would have thought possible.

  • Sexy Foul Weather Gear - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I love this car! I loaded it up with two bicycles, fishing gear,a dog and my wife and spent a wonderful vacation in the New River Valley in Virginias Blue Ridge Mountain range. Great power, surprising fuel economy, nice ergonomics and fun to drive. Engineered for safety at a price you can afford. Five star front and side impact ratings do not hurt.

  • Fantastic Car - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I have owned my 05 XT Limited (auto transmission) since Oct. 04. I now have just over 7,000 miles. This car is great! There is some turbo lag, but if you purchase a Cobb Tuning Accessport and remap the ECU, most of the lag disappears and the car is much more linear in power delivery (and gains an extra 30 hp)--definitely worth the $645. I have owned many fine autos--Acura, Lexus, BMW, Jaguar--this Subaru is the best for the money--the interior is classy and comfy--the car is fun to drive, and is one of the more versatile and safe vehicles on the road. Buy it--you will not regret it!

  • love it - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I downsized from a Pathfinder that I loved to the 2005 2.5i limited. Very comfortable, agile and just superb in bad weather. Driving in rain is like driving on dry pavement. In 18" of snow it did well except when the drifts exceeded the front hood. All I had to do was back up and try again and it blasted right through.

  • Great Value for your Money - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    We were looking for an AWD or a 4WD, however, gas mileage and the NHTSA crash test rating were two big factors for us. We found this perfect and value laden family AWD that gives you the ground clearance and the traction of an SUV, the comfort of a long wheelbase car and the price of a 4 door sedan. Amazing! We love it, perfect for the family on the go, perfect for the New England Region. Oh the NHTSA rating for front and side crash test? 5/5... sweet!

  • Its fun to drive again! - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    This car reminded me a car should be fun to drive! If you want to see what this car is about, include a drive on a windy country road.

Subaru Outback Reviews By Year:
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