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 191 through 200 of 262.00
  • Traded My 03 WRX - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Perfect all around car. Does everything well without a complaint. Traded my 03 WRX because I needed more room. Leather interior is great, versus cloth in WRX. Extremely reliable, never a worry. Get loads of compliments, Atlantic blue with grey. Looks great even while standing still. Best buy for the money, compared to the other imports from AUDI, VOLVO, BMW. Thousands less and more power, paid just over $29k.

  • Hold on to your hat. - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I have had this car for about 1 week now and I cant say enough about how much I LOVE to drive this car. I commute about 60 miles every 2-3 days for work and this car has made every minute an absolute joy. Its quick, very quick (I hope I dont get a ticket) and handles like butter--very responsive. I had no problems making a u-turn in a fairly narrow street. We cant wait to start using it for all our outdoor activities. The trunk space is great for all our gear. The only problem is that the sub-woofer rattles the interior plastics at moderate volumes.

  • big bang for the buck - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    My new Outback Ltd. is extremely comfortable, with outstanding fit and finish. I chose the non turbo version although I was tempted by the power of the turbo; however with the mileage I put on a car I can save about $750 per year with the non turbo. Car is very versatile; will handle people, dogs and equipment and living in Florida it gives me a feeling of security knowing I have all wheel drive for those torrential downpours. This is my fifth Subie, but first Outback and this one is the best!

  • Awesome - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Some of these I couldnt answer honestly since I have only had it for 3 days. But, with my past experience with Subaru this is going to be a wonderful vehicle. Overall a beautiful change over in body style and overall performance. Would recommend 100%

  • Big improvement! But room for more! - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Ive owned many Subarus, and many other cars for that matter! This car is by far the best Subaru yet. The interior is beautiful and the whole car is carefully engineered and assembled. Its really a shame that they stuck with the lethargic base engine (only 163 HP in the northeast and California). If you enjoy driving, do what you can to stretch your budget to get the turbo or 6 cylinder. This puts the Outback in somewhat of a paradox, with the 2.5i slightly underpowered and the 2.5XT slightly overpriced. Otherwise I find this car a wonderful place to travel! My best suggestion is to watch your dealer carefully, I almost got swindled for $1000 before I caught it!

  • A world apart from the last generation - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I traded my 2000 Outback to buy a 2005 Outback XT Ltd., and the difference is incredible. This car is a world apart from the last generation in terms of power, handling, ride, and interior/exterior design. Its ridiculously fast, yet very capable & composed. The mild turbo lag isnt annoying at all. The SPORTSHIFT is nearly delivers the thrill of a manual (although the steering wheel buttons must be replaced with stereo controls and paddle shifters). This is a sports car with room! Sure, there still is plenty of room for improvement (see below), but the positives easily make up for the negatives. Every drive is so rewarding. Is this really a Subaru?

  • lovely to look at lovely to drive - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    A fine car, thoughtful and energetic. Not too bad on gas and really sure footed on any surface.

  • Quattro-killer - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I absolutely love this rig. Mileage is so-so, but that is what you get for driving a car that absolutely is fearless in Northern Vermont winters. I switch the stock Potenzas for Hakkapalita RSIs mounted on simple, cheap 16" aluminum wheels in the winter to save the nice 17" stock wheels but also to avoid the wobbly feeling snow build-up that often plagues nice rims in winter. I bought this car to replace a VW Jetta VR6, and am completely happy with my decision. I commute through some of the nastiest roads and weather around, and have NEVER felt that the car would let meet down. It started right up after 24 hours parked in -33 F, and has yet to disappoint me. And its faaaast!

  • Wow! What a deal... - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    This is our first Subaru purchase, after much research for an SUV/wagon with kids/pets/transport capability & COMFORT. We had an 01 Honda CR-V which served us well but it was time for an UPGRADE. We were extremely impressed with its handling and performance; that extra 20hp sure makes a difference! Huge moonroof & leather interior were a definite plus. Luxury feel without paying a fortune. With discounts & trade in we ended up paying less for what we paid for CR-V (Standard, stripped model). Suggestion to consumers: Get Firestone/Bridgestone Road Hazard on tires. These are rather expensive tires & it will cover repairs/replacements. Its worth it.

  • Going back to Toyota - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Ive had nothing but problems with my Subaru Outback since we bought it. We burn through breaks, head lights and the car smells of burnt rubber after minimal driving. When the ABS light came on I took it to the dealer and they couldnt diagnose it (they failed to mention I need to leave the car running with the light on to diagnose..so they said). Now that is has 104K miles they tell me its the ball bearing, covered until 100K by warranty. Then the turbo went out, $1600 later its still smoking when I drive. Today they tell me the head gasket is shot and it has two leaks. This car is a money pit. I04K miles and a lot of issues, Im going back to Toyota.

Subaru Outback Reviews By Year:
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