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 201 through 210 of 262.00
  • Great Value - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I bought my car used with 7100 miles on the odometer. I love spirited driving. I am not totally happy with the suspension. The 8" ground clearance causes a floatiness at highway speeds and on undulating roadways. Maybe too much air is going under the car and causing lift. The interior is nicely appointed and handsome. I found the left foot rest not quite the right size or in the best position. I and am constantly moving my foot to get the most comfortable spot. The radio needs a sub woofer as standard equiptment. Car is very quiet at highway speed. Doors close with a reasurring thunk. The brakes are a little squishy. I prefer a more solid feel to the pedal pressure.

  • Awesome wagon, fun to drive..... - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    My wife and I were looking to get a family car without getting a minivan and we always kept coming back to the Outback. Since we purchased it we couldnt be happier. We unloaded a 2004 Nissan Titan gas guzzler for this car. It is fun to drive, comfortable (I am 63). solid, and perfect for our needs. I would recommend this car to anyone.

  • Best Subaru Yet - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Bought this car in Sept, fully loaded, every option available. Excellent car, rides great, handles great, abundant power, great interior, intuitive, materials are high quality. Great light up dash, turbo provides plenty of power on hills and mountains. AWD is the best in the world, total confidence. This is my third Subaru, and the is by far the best they have ever built. BMW & Audi should pay attention as these cars are world class, and provide unbelievable value, utility and fun to drive factor for a reasonable price.

  • uses more gas than advertised - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Generally an OK car except it barely gets over 20 MPG and there is a noticeable boxer engine vibration noticeable through the gas pedal from the opposed cylinders. Fairly rough on tire wear.

  • 2005 3.0 Sedan Review - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    This is the 5th Subaru I have owned. I have always loved their cars and have enjoyed upgrading through the years. I bought the 2005 Outback sedan because of the new 6 cylinder 250HP engine. The car has been great with the exception of poor craftsmanship on the interior. I have had 2 interior panels replaced and I have the faux wood grain molding on order that goes on the dash. This is to try to fix rattles that are occurring in the dash and near the rear window. So far, nothing has been resolved with the new parts. I have been extremely disappointed with the way the plastic parts have been put together. Aside from the rattles, the car performs beautifully. AWD awesome!

  • Love this Car! - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Traded in a 2004 Honda Civic EX at a LOSS to buy this car. At the time we bought the Civic this was our first choice, but the cost was prohibitive. Too bad we did not go with our first choice. If you live in the north this car is the best. Heated seats, wiper de-icers - all designed with us in mind but the AWD is INCREDIBLE! Have had it in 12 inches of fresh snow with NO wheel spin at all. Complaints of lace of power are not as apparent on the manual transmission. Fit & finish are excellent as are the extras such as heated mirrors and seats. No air leaks into the cabin on windy days. If you live in the Great White North and you are considering this car (in any form) BUY IT. You will NOT be disappointed.

  • I Really Like My Car - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Traditional AWD Subaru features and handling. Slightly softer suspension than my 2001, but quicker steering ratio, a bit sensitive to driver input, but you get used to it. The BEST EVER in the snow and rain. (I have owned 11 Subarus since 1983). Very good noise isolation and body integrity. 360 degree visibility is excellent.

  • Subaru Outback 05 - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Recently leased this vehicle after taking a test drive. The test drive was outstanding and the car came to me exactly as I wanted. Love the leather interior and the handling is great...gotta watch the turns because it has a tendency to understeer but other than that its a fabulous car. Watch the leasing company, though. Their contracts are vague and quite frankly the leasing company I deal with doesnt know their own forms very well

  • My Bean - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Just returned from a 1500 mile trip. It was a joy to drive. The ride was very comfortable with no outside noise. It has a lot of power and with the 5 speed transmission I got 25.8 mpg.

  • 100,000 miles of service---*wheel bearings - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I live in the mountains at Lake Tahoe. This car is more fun to drive up the mountain than my classic Corvette. The roof line is low enough to load my bikes on the roof rack. For some weird reason headlight bulbs dont last as long as you would expect. All owners need to know the warrantee on the wheel bearing problem is 100,000 miles. contact the Subaru mothership if a dealer wont fix it for free. Im going for a 2011 now and that should last me the rest of my life :-}

Subaru Outback Reviews By Year:
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