Used 2005 Subaru Outback Consumer Reviews
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Traded My '03 WRX
Rob M, 10/06/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
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.
Reliable??
chickentoaster, 02/07/2009
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The first 4 years car was alright, just don't expect much in the way of gas mileage. Had to replace rear wheel bearings under the special extended warrentee. Car was so loud that I could not hear the people in the back seat at over 25 mph. Have kept all the service intervals. Dealer says the head gasket is shot and needs to be replaced, estimate $2000.00. Only 71,000 mile on the car. I've had cars with 150K+ miles with fewer major problems. Headlights burn out about 2 months. Car has a higher than average cost of ownership, intervals for regular service items seem more frequent than other manufacturers. I don't think I'll be getting another Subaru. Not the quality I expected.
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The best hybrid of Sedan, Wagon and SUV
CCJW, 01/10/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Even when Turbo kicks in, the noise level of the cabin is still rather low, but you will hear wind rush through roof racks. Cargo space is plenty with hidden storage rooms arranged nicely, however interior space of front seats somehow feels small comparing to our 2000 Prelude. Body lean is there but the car still feels confident with small hint of RWD like. My wife and I had tested drive other European wagons in the same price range ($30K - $33K) and this OB XT Ltd easily beats them all (V50 T5 AWD, Audi A4 1.8t and Passat AWD) in all areas. We both have been a big VTEC fan for 6 years in 4 different models but the fun factor out from this turbo engine has totally changed our belief.
Midsized Rocket with lots of room
cberry211, 06/20/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my second Outback and what a difference. This is a classy car inside and out and the real surprise is when you step on the gas. Turbos do take a second to spool up but then watch out. It's easy for this car to get away from you. Nice fit and finish. Stereo is great. Some wind noise that seems to go with the territory (my old one was terrible). All in all a good deal compared to BMWs costing thousands more.
Not What It's Cracked Up to Be
pf, 01/11/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The 2005 Outback is a fine car from the point of view of performance, but after driving it for more than a month, I still can't get comfortable in it. Both I as the driver and my wife as the passenger are pretty cramped after driving for a long distance. The seats are very uncomfortable. Also, there is inadequate room in the back seat. The sloping hood is a detriment, since it makes it difficult to judge one's distance from another car or other object being approached. As a long-time Subaru driver, I am disappointed in this edition.
Some improvements, some problems
sb_sweetie, 06/12/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I owned my first Outback ('95) for 10 years before replacing it with the updated 2005. I love the look and some features of the new version, but am annoyed by others. The car handles well and the transmission is great. It drives much like the '95, but feels much more solid and safer. What annoys me is the cabin; it seems to have shrunk a few critical inches in all directions. The fit is tight for me and my 6'2" husband. I never felt this way in the '95. Also, the rear-view mirror is set too low (I'm 5'7") and obscures my view through the front. Maybe I'll get used to this, but for now, it annoys me (I've only had the car for a week). I guess I'm somewhat disappointed in the '05.
Great - Except......
rabbitman, 01/11/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This base model is a great auto but for those of us who do go off the highway and travel through the mud, over unpaved roads and such there is one item that the factory left off - the under the engine cover is not included on the base model. That means dirt, water, gunk, etc splashes up into the engine compartment. The 2.5i Outback wagon does offer an engine undercover insulator, however it is a side-type and offers no rear protection. The full width large type is standard on the XT, XT Limited, LL BEAN , and VDC models. The specs in print and on the web site no not point out this omission. A dear friend of mine also purchased a 2.5i last month and the dealer installed the protector at no charge.
Typical Subaru Greatness!
Subaroid!, 09/02/2009
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We bought this car in 2009. For a 2005, and it had low mileage for a 4-year old Subaru (65,000). It looks great (for a station wagon), and the build quality is typical Subaru. No problems so far at 65K. Subaru's flat 4 cylinder engine was re-designed in 2005 and is great! Quiet and smooth. Past Subarus (besides the WRX models) had poor acceleration, but this one really goes! It's very fun to drive this car. The all-wheel-drive is great! Subaru took everything good about the Outback and in 2005 made it better! Brakes- Great Steering- Great Handling- Great Features- leather, huge sunroof, performance tires, 17" wheels, turbo engine, power everything, heated seats/mirrors, AWD.
Awesome wagon, fun to drive.....
serch, 03/22/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
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 couldn't be happier. We unloaded a 2004 Nissan Titan gas guzzler for this car. It is fun to drive, comfortable (I am 6'3). solid, and perfect for our needs. I would recommend this car to anyone.
2005 Outback
Dave Clements, 03/05/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We upgraded from a Forester which we were very happy with but there is no comparison. Much more comfortable and quiet ride. The car feels very solid and is pleasure to drive
2005 LL Bean
groosejr, 03/18/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is the 7th Subaru that we have owned and is yielding the poorest miles per gallon of any. The perforated leather upholstery will now allow spilled items to penatrate the seating and prohibits easy wipe up. Still waiting for GPS to be available. Windows are not sufficiently tinted, requiring after market application. Transmission shift points allow engine to rev too high.
HAD I ONLY KNOWN
GEORGE MEYER, 02/23/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Great looking car. Interiors the best. However, car has no punch, many blind spots and overly sensitive key transmitter. Brakes could be stronger. Had I known before what I know now, I probably would have purchased the 2.5XT turbo, or the VW Passat 1.8 Wagon. Am waiting three months for the re-engineered pollen/dust cabin filter. Informed it will be at least 90 days longer. Gas mileage is sub-par. Hopefully after more miles this will increase. Seats need to be redesigned as they are not comfortable on long trips.
Super Subaru
Ross A, 02/08/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought the most basic Outback wagon made, the only option being auto transmission. All I can say is "Wow". This car gives so much for so little I can't get over it. Heated seats, outside mirrors and w/s wipers standard. The quality of the fit and finish inside and out is terrific. The car is quiet on the road, very comfortable, and handles great too. This is one of several cars my family owns, and the others are much more expensive. I find myself in the Subaru most of the time. I had an Infiniti G35 coupe for about a year and a half. This Subaru is put together so much better.
6 Months of Love.
Luv our RU, 05/11/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My wife and I bought this car back in November of '04. She traded her Saturn, which was great car for us. You always have buyer's remorse on a major purchase. We did not have that here! We have had our car for 6 months now and absolutely love the overall quality, ride, and comfort of our Subaru. I would totally recommend this car to anyone looking for a wagon. We looked at CR-V and Passat (wagon & sedan). We made the absolute right decision.
You'd be smart to own one
Gary, 02/19/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my 3rd Subaru. Ask anyone who's owned one and you know why we come back - they don't "break in" until they hit 100,000 miles. I traded my 99 Forester for the 05 LLBean (Pacific blue = outstanding color) because I loved the body style, power & multiple upgrades inside & out. Safety wise, I'm very happy with design and integrity plus side impact/curtain airbags which make this a car that rivals the overstated Volvo. Power is exceptional. Moving from the Forester, very capable/nimble ride w/165 horses, to 250 is unbelievable. It hugs turns better with no lean in turning & braking w/life saving acceleration. Also, I'm getting up to 22 mpg on DC beltway driving which will improve.
Awesome
Loveit, 05/27/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Some of these I couldn't 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%
review
getty45, 06/23/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R VDC Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Great Amazing Car! Couldn't be happier. Great handling and power.
Big improvement! But room for more!
Robert Murphy, 01/23/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've 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. It's 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!
New Subaru
PBRUNNICK, 01/20/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
So far the car has exceeded my expectations. Great ride and performance and too much fun to drive. Very impressed. I had test driven the Audi, and while they are a bit quieter, the cars are very close in quality and far apart in price.
Great Used Car
Dave from TX, 01/31/2010
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought used, second owner. It now has 71,000 miles and going strong. Replaced the passenger side CV boot, it sits above the catalytic converter so wears out sooner because of the heat. Cost $280 at dealership to fix but warranty covered so only $100. That was at 70,000 miles. Brakes still going strong, replaced Bridgestone with General; traction galore. H7 headlight bulbs do burn out somewhat quickly, my last set lasted 16 months. Other than the CV boot and headlight bulbs no other issues. I'm 6'4", 215lbs and it's a comfortable car albeit a little tight for my size. My girlfriend drove it and was shocked when I told her it was a 4 cylinder, she thought it was a V6 (she drives a V6 VW).
Aussie Outback
tfj100, 07/04/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R VDC Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The Subaru is everything we expected when we bought it. Fantastic interior, great performance and a high level of comfort and utility suggests we will like it for a while yet. Only drawback noticed so far is fuel economy - expect under 20 mpg around town and only open- road cruising gets it above 20 mpg
Best Subie Ever
Old Boy from Boston, 07/01/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My fourth Subie, also had Audi A4 and Pathfinder. This is probably the best car on America's 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.
Don`s Bean
Drdon, 01/20/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had NO problems!! I have looked all over the car and I am impressed with the workmanship. Lots of storage space in the back. Several hidden places to store things.
Best car to own for my type of needs
hsusieb, 07/10/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Since I bought this car I have used it for highway,offroad, mountian, and city driving. The cars performance and comfort is second to none.
Interior Lighting
JAY KOSACK, 12/15/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I had a 2002 LL Bean. My son now has it. Excellent car. The 2005 LL Bean is a great improvement. The performance, ride, comfort and styling are much better. Interior lighting, at night, is a major problem. When this model was made the moon roof was extended. A very nice feature. The problem is the interior light is much further back on the roof. The only lighting for the front of the car is the two door lights, which is not sufficient. They claimed to have (and advertised) a lighted glove box. It doesn't exist. Engine noise is louder than my previous model.
Stylish & practical value wagon
nigel1000, 07/16/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Exterior - improved over the '04 model, with the silver/grey and gold/grey combinations particularly attractive. More conservative than the Mazda 6 but more interesting than the equivalent Audi & VW wagons Interior - one of the most attractive available for less than 25K, with very nice materials and workmanship, and an elegant and simple dash; std 8-way heated power seat Performance - very stable and quiet on the freeway, even at speed over poor surfaces; nice & precise cornering with very little lean or bounce; base engine power adequate, which SprotShift auto improves somewhat Saftey - outstanding, with good manoueverability, excellent visibility and
Fun to Drive
jerseytiger, 01/01/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Pleased so far with the purchase. First time Subaru owner. Areas of concern with previous years have been addressed with 05 model. Researched all similar vehicles with AWD and found this vehicle to provide most bang for the buck, despite the fact that Subaru does not give them away. The car offers many features for all types of drivers: AWD-comfort-performance-reliability and most importantly-safety.
WOW!
raybenz, 12/09/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love this car! This is my second subaru, first being a 95 legacy wagon. There is no comparison. See some whining about the headlights low beam... Put on your glasses or use your high beams to spot those deer... Sheesh! Those are high intensity beams folks... Highway Mileage has been higher than the 25 advertised (IF you use the cruise control!) Lots of pep and fine fit and finish. And the moonroof... Awesome! Having spent 24 hours in this car during evacuation for Hurricane Ivan, while no Large SUV, this care was comfortable and maneuverable in tight traffic.
Pleased Overall
bac4uw, 12/07/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The performance is very adequate for most purposes. I took a trip over a mountain pass with the car loaded and never felt underpowered. Highway mileage has generally been 28-30mpg driving 70-80 mph. (100% traffic and hills has yielded 20-21 mpg.) WIth only 1200 miles on the car, I expect the mpg to get better once it is further broken in. The headlights are VERY bright... oncoming drivers flash me a lot at night. Minor gripes: I find the stereo to give weak FM reception and the trunk needs to be slammed HARD to latch and close. Overall, I am happy with my purchase and was able to get a great deal (well below invoice) by getting quotes through Edmunds' site.
I can't wait until I trade it in
denisa, 12/04/2007
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
As a former Legacy owner, I planned on a Forester, but bought an Outback because the seats were far more comfortable. I regret my decision daily. The projector beam headlights are horrible - they create a dark "curtain" that dips up and down and cuts visibility. They also blind other drivers and I am constantly being flashed. There is steady wind noise on the driver's side. The tires are terrible - slid off the road in slush my first storm out. Shifts between gears too much. The rear window is high, angled and small and makes parking and backing up difficult. The back-up lights are not bright. No keyed trunk release! The seatbelt bell is a nuisance. So-so on fuel. I hate this car.
A Gem of a Car
reeder, 11/10/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had my new Outback less than one week. Had a 2001 Forester which has served me well. I love this car! The interior is plush and updated. I have noticed the headlights are not super bright, but everything else is wonderful.
My Latest Outback (It's my Fourth!)
BuzzCT, 07/20/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I had heard something great was coming with the 2005, and I heard right! I bought the first one the dealership got, and I love it! I can't believe how much better this model rides and drives than my previous, 2001, model. The turning radius is great, and the sports mode automatic is terrific! I had thought I'd buy a 6-cylinder, but the $2 plus gas prices scared me; this new transmission gives me all the power I need. The interior is a big improvement; it's spacious and airy, and very comfortable. All in all, it's my favorite Subaru ever - and this one is my seventh!
My First Subaru
Norman, 01/15/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
8 months ago, I researched & test drove all the new SUVs listing around $20,000 for my girlfriend. We finally settled on a Forester (2002). It was love at first site for her, and we both still love that car. When it came time for me to trade in my 4WD pickup, I looked at all the 2005s again, but this time I fell in love with the updated Outback. I test drove four different models, and didn't care much for the turbo-charged 2.5i engine (trans shift was funny). I ended up with a 2005 3.0 R LL Bean addition. Black monotone exterior with taupe leather inside. It looks way more classy than a Subaru is supposed to. Could have bought ANYTHING & NEVER considered Subaru before, now I really LOVE IT!
We love this car
mar7, 12/08/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Last month my wife and I happily stepped out of a 2002 Passat into a 2005 Outback. After a terrific sales experience, the car has been living up to it's reputation. The interior is spacious and comfortable - my only complaint is the power windows (they're incredibly slow.) We frequently drive rural roads with poor lighting and have no problems with the headlight performance. Speaking of performance, the wagon handles great and will get you where you need to go. Those accustomed to more power will probably need one of the bigger engines, though, as acceleration is leisurely at times with the base engine and automatic.
Why Buy A SUV, When U Can Own an Outback
MKS, 08/03/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I know why this is Car of Year in Japan. This thing is awesome. FAST, Lexus quality interior, virtually noise free. This is my second Subaru, the first was a 2002 WRX. I sold the WRX to get more room, and does this car have room. The trunk space is huge in comparison to other midsize wagons. The power is more than adequate for a car this size. I am very happy that I bought this car. But after watching Lance win the Tour De France with a Subaru following him, really solidified my choice. LIVESTRONG!
Beauty, Brains & Muscle
Viking517, 10/25/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I had a 2001 Outback VDC. It was a very good car. I did have a few minor complaints that always prevented the car from being all it should be. I just bought the 2005 LL Bean Edition Outback and it now qualifies as EXCELLENT! The performance has been greatly improved, the ammenities are what you would expect from a $32000 vehicle, and the design (interior and exterior) is up there with the best from Europe. And it handles much, much better than a comparably equipped VW or Audi or Volvo...all of which cost significantly more. Overall, while not inexpensive, a great value!!!!
A Big Step Up for Subie
Jack Hinks, 08/13/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Needed a second 4WD wagon I drive an A4 Avant 1.8T and this was the only good choice below $30K. Much better than last year's. Roomy interior with sturdy upholstery, far nicer back end, decent power, killer turning radius. It's no Audi I think it's a little floaty at highway speeds, and nobody does interiors like Ingolstadt but it's darned fine for the dough and it feels plenty secure all the same. Can't wait for winter...
fun to drive; service dept. stinks
ecwma, 11/28/2006
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R VDC Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This VDC is an amazing car to drive but has had lots of "little" things go wrong with it; also had to replace tires at 30,000 miles - not cheap. AC did not work first several months I had the car; local service could not find anything wrong with it. Seat was broken but was worst after service department "fixed" it. Windshield broke/cracked with one small rock hitting it on way to work. It was out of alignment, local service said no; had warped rotors already. Subaru needs to communicate with service departments. It's been a lot of little things but many of those are service department errors...thinking of trading for a Honda - more reliable and service better.
Reliable
Will Lee, 10/21/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Having owned a Subaru previously I was encouraged to buy another for its reliability. This one I like even more. It is comfortable, has a nice weight to it for highway driving, corners amazingly well for a four door car and has good pickup for a four cylinder auto. And I like the safety facto of the all wheel drive.
The Best Yet!!
Kabar, 10/23/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my 3rd Outback and by far the best!! Subaru really listened to all the surveys and out-did themselves with the 2005 model! Power, comfort, looks...and fun!! I love the new Color- I bought the Atlantic Blue. I've had so many comments about my "new car" and tell me about the car and it's features!
update on oxygen sensor problem
anxious, 04/08/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this vehicle in August 2004 and initially wrote in to Edmunds about an oxygen sensor light that went off immediately after I drove the car off the lot. Following the dealership's replacement of the faulty oxygen sensor (now 7 months ago) I have not had any problems with the car and I continue to enjoy driving it.
lovely to look at lovely to drive
c.j. taylor, 04/28/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
A fine car, thoughtful and energetic. Not too bad on gas and really sure footed on any surface.
Fantastic Crossover!
drobine, 10/23/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
With the H6 boxer, it has plenty of power for driving around town and highway. We bought it to have a comfortable, reliable, around-town car that could go off-road. We couldn't afford a VW Touareg V8. Other cars driven were Toyota 4Runner, Honda Pilot and Acura MDX. The Outback was easier to live with than the 4Runner (too rough in-town), nicer than the Pilot (disappointing finish inside for a Honda), and was a virtual tie with the Acura MDX. The Outback felt more spacious than the Acura while behind the wheel.
a very fine car
kmfitz, 09/01/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
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.
Constant Problems
Matt, 08/09/2016
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 12 people found this review helpful
Nothing but constant issues. Its got 155K miles and I've treated it like gold. Headlights burn out constantly, rear window no longer goes up and down, trunk leaks in the rain. 2 major repairs this year alone - $2,100 for leaking head gaskets and $2,000 for a new transmission. Never buying a subaru again.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Sexy Foul Weather Gear
Daniel M. in MD, 09/14/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R VDC Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love this car! I loaded it up with two bicycles, fishing gear,a dog and my wife and spent a wonderful vacation in the New River Valley in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountain range. Great power, surprising fuel economy, nice ergonomics and fun to drive. Engineered for safety at a price you can afford. Five star front and side impact ratings do not hurt.
'05 Outback XT - Standard
rfisher, 09/21/2006
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I had a 2004 WRX which was too small for family of 5 with 4 dogs. Needed more space. Got great price at end of year for '05 with rebates and upgraded to Outback XT. I love the extra room and features of this car. It is built much better than the WRX.
Long Term Test Drive
Pilgrim, 11/07/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Had the car for 10 months now and it's still a thrill to drive. Full-time all wheel drive is wonderful; though the stock tires are a poor choice. Transmission is smooth yet tight, one of the best I've driven. With better than 10K miles still no rattles. Surprising handling for such a high profile will be made much better by tires that actually grip the road. Despite the tires the car has a very substantial feel whether on a back country dirt road or out on the interstate behind a semi on a windy winter's night.
headlights
w.frascella, 10/25/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
low beams in rural areas look like a shade was pulled down to about 6 feet off the ground.headlights have 2 filiments in 1 bulb and to raise the low beams so you can rean street signs the high beams are directed into the sky. there is a coller around the bulb and it cuts off the top two thirds of the light.it is not as noticeable in the city because of the background lights.i contacted subaru at the suggeston of my dealer and after 2 calls was told they plan no corrective action. test this car at night and on rural roads-it is scarey!
Disappointed.
Dmitry, 01/31/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Drivetrain: Rear suspension is too soft, (car goes up & down more than once after bump). 4-A transmission is the same slow as previous generation, but shift logic now is very stupid, kickdown is absolutely unacceptable. Interior: Well, finally they switched to better materials, but this is the only improvements - ergonomics is nightmare. At night the instrument panel and console look like Christmas tree! There are 5 different colors. Brightness of several things is not adjustable. Some controls are hard to reach, (eg. "horn button" is not reachable by thumb!) Exterior: Because they rounded down roof toward rear, visibility is affected. Headlights generate awful light distribution, high beam is useless.