Overview & Reviews

A navigation system has been added to the options list for 2006, and trim levels have been realigned. Non-turbo four-cylinder models get a bump in horsepower (now up to 175) thanks to a new variable valve-lift system.

• 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.

• Automatic transmission upshifts too early, desirable features restricted to top-line VDC model, smaller backseat than most competitors.

User Reviews:

Showing 61 through 70 of 106.00

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  Sure-footed, but incredibly unreliable - 2006 Subaru Outback
  By kbourdeau - October 13 - 9:12 am

  My 06 2.5i Ltd. (118,000 mi.) blew its head gaskets for the second time in less than 3 yrs. today. Replaced all 4 sets of wheel bearings at least once, broken front axle, wiring harness on back hatch, door handle, console cover broke off completely years ago, rear defrost never did work properly, etc. Never had a car in the shop as much as this one. Loved the traction - absolutely hated the total lack of quality in this vehicle. Not feeling the love... If you insist on a Subaru, but a model from 08 or newer - they are supposedly much more reliable.

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  Great Vehicle - 2006 Subaru Outback
  By efinkens - October 5 - 2:30 pm

  Bought the LL Bean with the 6 cylinder. Not cheap but when I considered that I will burn 300 gallons less per year, the choice was easier. Nice ride, peppy motor and the stereo is great. The sunroof is the coolest on the market. I have no problem throwing the dog and decoys in the back for some hunting or showing up at a business meeting. Great vehicle.

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  Check Engine Light For the LOSS - 2006 Subaru Outback
  By Amy - August 6 - 10:16 am

  I purchased mine as a CPO. Within 2 months the drivers side window stopped going up and down, the sunroof refused to open, and the check engine light has come on 3 times. It has been the dealer 4 times in 2 months! I am BEYOND unhappy with the purchase! Subaru clearly also doesnt know how to fix the check engine light as the code is for an engine misfire cylinder 2 - we first were told to do the spark plugs, done, then when it went back they did the coil for just that cylinder, and now who knows what they will come up with. I cant rely on the car not to throw a code. Waste of money.

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  3rd Outback - 2006 Subaru Outback
  By TwoHawks - June 26 - 9:10 am

  I had 2 previous Outbacks...a 1997 which I totaled when run off the road (I walked away unhurt) and a 1999 which I gave to my son with 300,000 miles (he is still driving it...original engine). I just bought a 2006. Great improvements over previous models. I get 28 mph highway consistently.

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  A confirmed Subaru buyer - 2006 Subaru Outback
  By Trina Stephenson - June 20 - 10:26 am

  I have owned many Subarus -- 1993 Impreza, 2000 Forester, 2004 Outback and now the 2006 Outback. Basically the car gets better with each iteration. There are a few things missing on my 2006 that I had on the 2004 which I miss: 1. Weatherband radio, why was this fantastic feature removed? It was great when we traveled through tornado alley to make sure there werent any weather events that we should know about. 2. The beeping feature on the seatbelts is annoying. My dog sets off the seatbelt alarm, my bag of trash or myself driving 100 feet down my driveway before I dash out to open my gate all set it off. 3. The cupholder is still awkward and small.

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  Fun - 2006 Subaru Outback
  By P.Krezel - May 16 - 4:50 pm

  I bought the Outback for our growing family and I’m impressed. Nice interior, big trunk and lot of storage. Outside sporty wagon with AWD – Do you need more - No. When I drive Subaru I have a lot of fun a specially when I’m using “sport” driving. I have always wondering what’s make Subaru Subaru – now I know.

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  Powerful Ride, Great Handling - 2006 Subaru Outback
  By Phipka - February 5 - 9:16 pm

  This is my third new Subaru and there are noticeable improvements from model to model. The only real negative I see is a hesitation to accelerate. This is a real problem when coming onto a road past a blind curve or pulling onto a parkway with fast unforgiving traffic. Otherwise the car has amazing handling and is the best foul weather car I have ever driven in. It is a little closer to the ground than my 2000 Outback Limited offering excellent stability in the wind. I particularly liked the sport shift when I went over the 16% grade of the Sonora Pass in California this year - I really feel safe in this car under almost any condition. 19/25 mpg traffic/highway.

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  Cant believe this is a Subaru - 2006 Subaru Outback
  By srhorn77 - February 2 - 11:43 pm

  I bought my 2006 Outback used with 78K miles. After 800 miles of driving, the weather turned cold and the tranny started slamming from 3rd into 4th. I took it to the dealer and they recommended I replace the tranny for $3400. Theres also a rubber/oil burning smell when driven long distances. The radio and drivers window randomly stop working and the entire lighter assembly pulled completely out when I tried to unplug my car charger. This car must have been built the Monday after Superbowl Sunday before coffee. Im so disappointed in this car. Subaru is supposed to be so reliable but I cant wait to trade it. The good is it does great in the snow. I had a 2003 Impreza and loved it!

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  Subarus a Best Bet - 2006 Subaru Outback
  By Eric - November 14 - 8:03 pm

  I owned a first generation 96 Outback and had a bunch of problems. This is not that car. This car rides much better and is far more upscale. I replaced our 98 Volvo and could not be happier. This provides the versatility and safety I had with a Volvo at a much better price and much sportier package. It is a rocket off the line (be sure to go with the turbo if you want performance). It also rides like a regular car but with enough clearance that we can comfortably go into the mountains and tackle 4-6" of new powder on the back roads. If you need a wagon, but dont want to give up performance, go with this vehicle.

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  Refined vehicle - 2006 Subaru Outback
  By Nate - October 1 - 9:06 am

  Definitely a step up from the previous generation Outbacks, a lot of thought went into improving the interior design and materials. The H6 pulls nicely, very smooth motor. Would like to see better fuel economy, a mix of hwy/city is giving between 18-20.