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 41 through 50 of 262.00
  • Best Subie Ever - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    My fourth Subie, also had Audi A4 and Pathfinder. This is probably the best car on Americas roads. Fast, high, safe, great handling, much improved interior and exterior. Cruises down the highway, a delight on twisty hills, superb moderate off-road. Monotone is very sharp looking, a stealth Subie with much of the over badgeing gone. Unconfusing controls. Girlfriend loves the dual climate controls. Awesome sunroof. New 5speed auto transmission is much smoother. The six flies. Very safe feeling. Best car out there.

  • Great Car! - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    After spending 5 years researching a replacement car--this was our number 1 choice. The car is outstanding in almost every respect. It is at once: a family wagon; a fun sports car; and a great small SUV. All at a fair price-- for the money it is the most car you can buy in this category.

  • Liked 97 much better - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Very disappointed with the fuel economy - 16mpg in winter, 19 in summer. Climate controls are confusing, impossible to get fresh, cool air into cabin w/o A/C. Continue to have issues with noise and vibration in front drivetrain. Dealer has not been able to correct after vehicle being in shop over two weeks. Should have stuck with the old reliable.

  • Perfect choice - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I decided to trade in my gas guzzling truck for a smaller car with better gas milage. This was a great choice. The AWD handling is new to me and if I dont be careful it WILL get me in trouble. Base model engine has little pick up but runs great once rolling, but I expected this and accept it. It has climbed some fairly mean off road trails and only had a slight overheat, with no problems later. I love my "new" Ru!

  • Good mileage - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    If youre looking for an all-around utility car this may be it. Handles great in the snow/ice, rides smooth, lots of storage, good looking, and I average almost 28 mpg with 30,000 miles on the engine. The only thing I find lacking is power, but thats the trade off for the good mileage.

  • Sweet Ride. - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    We just got it, and we already love it. It doesnt have the turbo, which I wanted, but its got plenty of power. Handles real nice, and is comfortable. We love the moon roof! It makes us feel like we are in something that costs a lot more than what we paid.

  • A big surprise - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Kids grew up, replace the Sienna (we loved) with something for the two of us. Looked at CRV, Volvo CX70 etc. By chance dropped by Subaru dealer who didnt even have an Outback ready to drive. When we did, loved it and bought. Nothing outstanding just a wonderful interior, wonderful ride, perfect size. My wife wanted good mileage and non premium gas so we ordered the 4 cyl. My preference would have been the 6 but that was our choice. Car is in a lovely green with cream leather - get lots of stares and questions.

  • a very fine car - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    a fine looking car, a fine, fun driving car. i had previously had a 2000 Outback that i was very happy with..and this car is all that and more. more power, more luxury, more toys.

  • Just disappointed - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    My first Subaru will be my last. Bought the Outback based on the Subaru reputation for being bullet proof. Far from it. Subaru must have got a bunch of bad bearings. They extended the warranty on the wheel bearings, which I replaced. The real shocker has been the clutch. Had to replace the throw-out bearing at 52k. Dealer told me to replace the flywheel and clutch plate while he was at it, or may end up paying for labor twice. $1500 later the bearing still makes a noise. Never thought Id be spending $1500 for a clutch on a Subaru with 52K and I dont ride the clutch.

  • Never again - 2005 Subaru Outback
    By -

    This car is the worst used car Ive ever owned and Ive new bought a new car in my life. Ive had trouble with the alarm going off for no reason for months and the dealer not being able to figure it out then finally they discovered the rear hood latch was faulty. Ive had several sensors replaced one cost three hundred and one around four hundred. The rear wheel bearing went out and the heater fan needed to be replaced. It blows headlights constantly and has a horrible squeak in the dash. All these repairs in less than a year, and the car doesnt even have 70k on it - seems ridiculous back to toyotas for me.

Subaru Outback Reviews By Year:
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