2009 Subaru Outback Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.27/5 Average
81 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The 2009 Subaru Outback is no longer available in L.L. Bean trim, but stability control is now standard across the lineup. Additionally, the 2.5i Special Edition makes its debut, and all models except for the base 2.5i receive an upgraded nine-speaker sound system.

Pros:
  • Secure handling, excellent safety ratings, standard all-wheel drive, zesty acceleration in 2.5 XT and 3.0 R trims, distinctive styling inside and out.
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 61 through 70 of 81.00
  • 2009 Outback Constantly Rattles - 2009 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I bought a 2009 Outback last year and was so happy to have another Subaru. Several months after purchase I noticed a loud rattle in the front, took it to the dealership who told me there were issues with the 2008/2009 Heat Shields - and they replaced mine. The rattle problem seemed to be resolved, however 2 months later - it is rattling again. This time the dealership showed me Memos of consumer complaints of the rattle - and stated it would probably continue because these Heat Shields are just clipped together instead of being bolted together. AND - be prepared for it to be much worse in the winter time. I wish I knew this in advance - very disappointed! : (

  • So far, so good - 2009 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Ive had my Outback for a month now and put on 1200 miles. It has exceeded my expectations so far. Im just out of a 2005 Nissan Murano and I expected that it would be a step down in almost all regards except gas mileage. While it isnt quite as comfortable a ride and the quality of interior isnt quite as good, Ive been pleasantly surprised at how well the car drives. Except for pedal-to-the-metal acceleration, it honestly feels like a 6 cylinder not a 4. Good torque and power delivery. The handling is better than the Muranos, no doubt due to the considerably lower center of gravity. Gas mileage so far is consistently 24.6 mpg through each of 3+ tankfuls.

  • Nice Car - 2009 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Standard 2.5i better than what I read. Very comfortable to drive. Harmon Kardon stereo so-so. Mileage seems better than I would think.

  • 200+K miles without a wrench put on it! - 2009 Subaru Outback
    By -

    This car was our 5th Subaru, and it is being replaced by a newer model. All of our Subarus went well over 200,000 miles without ever having to take them into the dealer for a repair. The only time any of our Subarus were in the shop was for normal engine maintenance that required tools or expertise beyond the average owners ability or tool ownership (even spark plug changes need a special tool to accomplish); eg. timing belt, cam belt & cam seals, water pump at about 85,000 or more miles. I did all oil & oil filter changes at 5000 mile intervals and air filter changes, myself. You also can save a little money by buying spark plugs at an auto parts store and just pay the labor to have a dealer install them. These cars are so trouble-free, you get in it, turn the key and the engine always starts. On my first Subaru wagon a 1985, at about 125,000 miles a slight hesitation on acceleration off idle developed. I took it in to the local Subaru specialist shop to diagnose & fix it. When I picked up the car, the mechanic told me (jokingly) I should be ashamed of my self for the cause of the problem. The ORIGINAL spark plugs were still in the engine - I never changed them! He couldnt believe I hadnt yet changed the plugs. So, were buying another Outback, this will be our 6th Subaru.

  • A WRX trapped inside a Volvos body! - 2009 Subaru Outback
    By -

    We have a baby now so we needed something more versatile than our previous car (02 BMW 325i) but just as sporty and fun to drive. The Subaru Outback delivers in every way. Its a great looking wagon inside and out, the build quality is solid and in 2.5 XT form, its more powerful than our old BMW. I couldnt ask for more. The Outback is smooth and powerful and feels like a much more expensive car. Its very quiet and low-revving, I barely go over 4,000 RPM. Theres plenty of room in the rear for a baby-stroller, groceries, luggage, golf clubs, etc. In our old sedan that was a major issue. The 5 speed manual is responsive and crisp. The 2.5 XT Limited is the best Outback available, period.

  • No regrets whatsoever - 2009 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I have a 5 speed MT Special Edition. I have gone from VW products to Audi and I have no regrets at all. The build is great, the AWD is extremely capable and I have never gotten it stuck (and I have tried as I take it down trails through mud and snow and over rocks to go biking), the comfort and visibility is fantastic, the power is not earth moving but good enough, the mileage is very good considering its a big 4 cylinder and just 5 speeds. The only real downside is that the leg room in the rear seat is very very tight.

  • More fun than expected - 2009 Subaru Outback
    By -

    This thing handles like a sports car, rides very nice and has quiet interior. I get 26-27 avg mpg using 87 reg. Theres plenty of room to haul camping and fishing gear.

  • Perfect for dogs and overall utility - 2009 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I love driving this car. The ride is smooth yet still sporty. Subaru was clever with some really small stuff, like leaving a space for your ipod cable to exit the armrest storage. A simple clip to hold up the rear floor cover which accesses the "secret space" under the cargo area. I have three dogs and with the 1 of the rear seats down they can move around and get comfortable. (I purchased a very cool cargo cover from Canvasback of Idaho which makes clean up after taking the dogs to the lake much easier.) I love the big 17" tires and two tone exterior. I have the Newport Blue Pearl which is only 1 of 2 models with the silver cladding at the bottom. The sunroof is humongous.

  • Backing up/low visability - 2009 Subaru Outback
    By -

    It is hard to see out the side windows to back up. The windows are too small.

  • My last car - 2009 Subaru Outback
    By -

    When we got so much ice in December of 2008 I got tired of not being able to get my truck out of the parking lot so I went to Walkers Subaru and got an Outback Legacy Wagon. Best purchase I ever made. I love the ride, the lines and the AWD. Cargo area is great. I wish I had bought the Subaru 4 cars ago. I am not really into cars, just want to get where I am going and so far this car does it for me.

Subaru Outback Reviews By Year:
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