Used 2005 Subaru Outback Consumer Reviews
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'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.
Worst Subaru I've Ever Owned...
Garandpa, 07/23/2009
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is our 5th Subaru, 2 Legacy's, 1 Justy and 2 Outbacks & this car has been the worst of the bunch. On the positive side, the gas mileage is good, it runs well and the problems have not been anything serious. BUT, we've had trim pop off repeatedly, carpet come loose & handles break. In 4 years/77,000 miles, we've put in 5 headlight bulbs, all front & rear brake pads (my '88 Chevy truck had the original pads and bulbs in it when I sold it in 2004 w/130,000 miles), replaced the interior bulbs 2x, both rear wheel bearings (under warranty at least), put 3 O2 sensors in and now the car has a new whine in the rear. The nearest Subaru dealer is 50 miles away and difficult to deal with.
2005 Subaru Outback for sale near you
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Hidden Cost - Replace tires in pairs
Tired of run around, 01/05/2006
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 9 people found this review helpful
Per the Service Manager at Dallas Subaru, tires must be replaced in pairs, either the two front or the two rear, at the same time. My 2005 Outback wagon has 25,000 miles on it and pulls so hard to the right, it's hard to keep it on the road. I have one off-brand tire and the dealer requires that I replace it and the other rear tire with matching major brand tires before they will even put the car on the rack to check the alignment. He says that every time one tire goes out, two must be replaced so they will have identical wear. Otherwise, warranty on the car does not apply and the car will not handle properly. I think this is an unreasonable expense and hidden cost.
A big surprise
Hugh Evans, 09/01/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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 didn't 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.
Sweet Ride.
Mood Swing, 04/30/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We just got it, and we already love it. It doesn't have the turbo, which I wanted, but it's 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.
problem with 2005
anxious, 09/02/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just bought a 2005 outback two days ago and love it except for the fact that the day after I drove it off the lot the check engine light came on with a blinking cruise light indicator. The dealership read the code to be the oxygen sensor, cleared it,and said to come back if it comes on again. Well it came back on today and I'm bringing it in to be checked again tomorrow. Here's hoping it turns out to be a minor glitch if anything....
Fantastic Car
socalh2oskier, 05/02/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned my '05 XT Limited (auto transmission) since Oct. '04. I now have just over 7,000 miles. This car is great! There is some turbo lag, but if you purchase a Cobb Tuning Accessport and remap the ECU, most of the lag disappears and the car is much more linear in power delivery (and gains an extra 30 hp)--definitely worth the $645. I have owned many fine autos--Acura, Lexus, BMW, Jaguar--this Subaru is the best for the money--the interior is classy and comfy--the car is fun to drive, and is one of the more versatile and safe vehicles on the road. Buy it--you will not regret it!
Air Conditioning Problems!!
pitstaff10, 09/10/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great looking car and fun to drive, as long as it's not hot outside. Only 300 miles on car and has been in for repair already. Comfort takes a ding on this one due to the newly designed AC cycles constantly every 20-30 seconds between cold and warm making for an annoying sensation. Outside temp at 82 and inside still not all that cold. Subaru America says that's just the way it is designed and will have to live with it. I've had better AC in cars 20 years old!! Beware of this "new" design!! Gas mileage seems to be great but can be uncomfortable to drive in hot environments, so much for a great commuting vehicle.
Very good wagon
Andrew, 05/13/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fuel mileage varies depending on whether I'm driving (31 mpg) or my wife (24 mpg). No problems after 10 months of ownership. RPM at highway speeds seems high (approx. 3000 rpm at 65). This results in noticeable noise at higher speeds and lower fuel economy. Protenza RE92 tires receive poor ratings by consumers on tirerack.com. Especially for winter conditions. People who live where it snows should consider buying better tires for winter. Save the Protenzas for the summer. Stability control should be offered as an option. Although I feel the 168hp motor is adequate, Subaru should offer a 180-200hp motor in addition to the 168 and 250. Shifter is stiff in cold weather. Great car in general.
Our ninth Subaru. We take them to 175000
Gorbes, 09/10/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is a barrel load of fun to drive. It is a real "sleeper"and this one has surprised many a kid in his lowered Honda with subwoofers. It has excellent grip on the Nova Scotia dirt roads we drive; the brakes are truly astounding and have kept us on two occasions from making venison with the bumpers. It has only one problem, in common with it's fellow turbo Subies - turbo lag. Saab relegated it to the automotive history pile a few years ago.
I love it!!
mkerrigan, 04/27/2009
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my first Subie! I love it! Its the manual turbo with heated cloth seats. The interior is simple and nice. Exterior is sharp looking. Pickup and go is awesome! Great interior room and ride is quiet and solid. Gas mileage has been approx. 20 mpg, not bad. I am very happy.
new to me subaru 1st time subaru owner
EDH, 09/15/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I test drove 38 same type cars befor choosing the outback , I was comparing value , safety , style , fuel eccon. fun to drive , visability , history , and dealerships for service and the outback won , I'm having fun , only wish I would have gone for the Limited , the stero needs help in the base model , missing leather and the sunroof , next time round !
The best yet
busycee, 09/15/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R VDC Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the 5th Subaru Wagon I have had since 1987 and it is definitely the best. It has great acceleration!
Review of '05 Outback Limited
Brian Lynch, 05/26/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Was very happy with my '01 Outback which I put 155,000 miles on before trading in with a value of $5,000. Purchased a '05 Limited that has a much upgraded interior, better ergonomics, better sight lines, more power (better torque curve even with 2.5 base engine) and better fuel economy. Great value and an excellent alternative to an SUV (even though this model now falls into this class, it's a car and handles like one thankfully).
great turbo
michael, 05/18/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a terrific car much more responsive than the 6 cylinder. Wanted to get the Limited, but am too tall for the sunroof. Why does a nice interior require a sunroof? Great handling for a car with this much ground clearance. Good job, Subaru.
what fun
Sterie, 09/25/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This wagon is a stealth sports car.Excellent performance, fun to drive, great sun roof. Roof Rack is stronger we carry double kayak and tandom bike on top. Can also carry mountain bike inside with out disassembly. Wife had a hard time accepting payment for an ugly station wagon, but has since changed her mind and always wants to drive. Good cd player, great heated seats and individual heat controls.
Snow Buggy
some12talk2, 09/27/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my 1st subie and with the inside out changes for this year gave me enough reason to buy one. After driving the car for a month now, I find this to be the ideal car for the day tripper or weekend warrior. Very fun to drive and pass SUVs, especially on windy roads. It's not affect by high winds and has little body roll on sharp turns. Very nimble handling, feels like you're driving a small car. The turbo lag is minimal even at high altitudes. The ground clearance allowed me to take it on the backroads. Can't wait for the snow season to test it out. Has a very stylish interior/exterior. Suites me perfectly!!!
OUTBACK RULES!!!
maegokid, 10/02/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
OVERWHEMINGLY PLEASED WITH THE CAR'S HANDLING & INTERIOR AMENITIES. AFTER CAR SHOPPING FOR A WHILE EARLIER THIS YEAR FOR A NEW CAR, I HAD NEVER THOUGHT ABOUT GETTING A SUBARU UNTIL I TEST DROVE THE 2005 OUTBACK & FELL HEAD OVER HEALS FOR IT'S DESIGN (IN/OUT) & EXTRAORDINARY DRIVING CAPABILITIES ON PAVEMENT OR OUT. IT FEELS GREAT TO OWN A WELL BUILT, STURDY, GOOD LOOKING CAR THAT ALMOST NOBODY DRIVES, FEELS LIKE YOU KNOW SOMETHING THEY DONT. I HAVE ABSOLUTELY NO COMPLIANTS; IT'S A PLEASURE TO DRIVE ESPECIALLY WITH THE WINDOWS DOWN, HUGE MOONROOF OPEN & THE MUSIC WAY WAY UP.
swell subaru for the dough
snowflame, 09/29/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
one of the most impressive handling cars for its price,about 30000 and awd to boot.Owned lots of sport sedans but this wagon really takes the cake.I get more impressed every day and lots of opportunity to put this machine through the moves with my 85 mile commute on back country Connecticut roads.The 250 hp boxer is a marvel and the response is even and seamless,it even has shifters on the mo-mo wheel for hands on driving.I have never had a Subaru before and was I in the dark about this value car!!!!move over Audi and save the dough for a nice cruise when you need away time.Fit and finish are nice and creature comforts abound.Its a must drive auto.........
Wow!
Jfish, 10/03/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just traded in an anemic 200 Outback w/ the normal 2.5 for the new XT. This car shows that Subaru pays attention to detail, and acutally improves wht needs to be improved, and can leave the rest alone. This car is fast, handles great, outstanding comfort! It was more $$ than the old 2.5, but well worth it. This care GOES!
My Bean
Dr. Don, 10/09/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
Subaru Outback 05
john bahn, 10/09/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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 it's a fabulous car. Watch the leasing company, though. Their contracts are vague and quite frankly the leasing company I deal with doesn't know their own forms very well
Happy with power, unhappy with quality
Mark, 02/18/2008
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I expected the usual Subaru quality with this vehicle. The performance is everything I expected but the build quality is not. Door handle trims falling off and arm rest covers falling off are not what I expect. The latest surprise was having to replace CV boots and clatch at 55000 miles. I've driven manuals all my life and never replaced a clutch.
Subaru 4 cyl wagon turbo limited
Larry Larsen, 10/16/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have driven excellent old Cadillacs. This car rides and handles much better. It is agile, responsive, quiet, and a joy to drive.
from a newly made subaru fan
BZS, 10/19/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a spectacular vehicle. This is the cheapest new car I ever bought: it is the most satisfying I ever had. It does everything so well: you wouldn't anticipate that from "a subaru". My previous "performance" cars were an Audi A6, then a Cadillac CTS (So, I know how owning a new car makes you feel and have high standard for comparison). This car is more responsive, just as comfortable, and arguably safer, more reliable and much cheaper than those. Actually, it even looks nice (well, maybe not as nice as the Audi) It may not have the aura of the luxury cars, but its down-to-earth design and "ready for everything" personality makes you feel GOOD every day
Subaru once again amazes me
Crocks, 07/09/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is our 6th Subaru and this time subaru has really outdone themselves. I've always loved their reliability and longetivity with my 98 have 230K on it and runnig strong. We decided to replace our WRX with something more Family orientated. The outback XT was it. We have all the luxury and comfort of our other outback but a style and the power to blow you away. Saidly to say my WRX would be left behind by our new family wagon. The turbo is much smoother than that of the WRX but it has more power. What a great combination of the family wagon and a sleeper sports-car. Gas mileage is a bit different then our previous outbacks but the performance makes it all worth it.
05 Subaru Outback Turbo
Therapet, 10/23/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Subaru Outback Turbo (2005) Sleek styling, smooth riding, lots of extras. Smaller steering wheel, good sound system, 6 cd changer, very comfortable and fun to drive.
Outback 2.5i Limited Excellent Value
Dr. Barry, 12/04/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Drove a Saab 9-2 x as a loaner car when brought my 9-3 Linear in for service. I was so impressed with the Saabaru I drove over to the local Subaru dealership. I test drove the Outback Limited 2.5i and lost no time trading in my 2003 trailblazerEXT.Yes folks I have a few cars but I've got to tell you the Outback is the best all around 4 wheel drive for the money if you dont want to be married to a gas station. Try one and you will buy one!
Love at first drive
jhc003, 10/28/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just picked up this car last week and I absolutely love it! The ride, build quality and value are second to none. The ride is very solid and stable and the interior ammenities are superb. This is my first Subie and I was skeptical at first but after I drove this car I knew nothing else could compare in terms of quality and value. The revamped interior is very stylish and functional. The exterior is also nicely done and what's under the hood is the real treat. The 250 hp turbo engine is phenomenal! You better hang on to your hat when you hit the gas in this baby. If you're looking for versatility, power, luxury and AWD you simply can't beat this car. I can't wait to drive this car more!
Hold on to your hat.
eteh, 11/07/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had this car for about 1 week now and I can't say enough about how much I LOVE to drive this car. I commute about 60 miles every 2-3 days for work and this car has made every minute an absolute joy. It's quick, very quick (I hope I don't get a ticket) and handles like butter--very responsive. I had no problems making a u-turn in a fairly narrow street. We can't wait to start using it for all our outdoor activities. The trunk space is great for all our gear. The only problem is that the sub-woofer rattles the interior plastics at moderate volumes.
Best Subaru Yet
Westrout, 11/14/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
Bat outta hell.....
the flea, 11/18/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is borderline over-the- top...the turbo kicks in at about 2600 rpm and you need to get off it or else you're looking at some serious legal issues....nice ride, quiet, little road noise....exponential improvement over my 2000 2.5i limited....$8k cheaper than a Volvo XC70, much better buy....they oughta put a turbo in the 6 cyl, but it may not be street legal (think the boxers definately benefit from the turbo)...
Subraru XT 2.5
sock1eye, 11/17/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very fun car to drive.
Worst Car I Ever Loved
Pilgrim 54, 01/20/2009
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
North western PA winters were no match for the Sube. Foot of snow; no problem. Need lots of ground clearance, fine. Need service...good luck. Yes you WILL need service. We bought ours new and sold it after 4 years. Had numorous problems with the cruise control operation. Replaced the timing belt tensioner TWICE! On the way to the dealer when we were trading it in we were having second thoughts till the check engine light came on!!
Hot Rod Sport Wagon
RadioRich, 11/24/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I traded in my supercharged 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP on this car to upgrade performance and upgrade the fun factor. Wow, I don't miss the GTP at all. The 5M transmission shifts like butter. Acceleration is smooth and strong. This car has legs. My kayak is easy to load on the low roofline, but the high-seating position gives a good commanding view of the road. The interior leather & plastics are first quality, in the same league as BMW or M-B. In the first 4,000 miles, I averaged 25mpg, with plenty of acceleration-testing. The MPGs have been climbing. 5th gear acceleration at 3,000 RPM produces 60 to 80 MPH in less than 2 seconds. Wow. I LOVE this car! This is a keeper!
What a Cool Car!
pc2mac, 08/30/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just drove got a XT last night. I was looking for something that can carry a lot of stuff, had AWD, and had decent power. What I got is something that feels like a luxury car with a ton of power and it is practical too. The fit and finish rivals my wife's Infiniti G35 sports coupe. It drives really nice and I can't believe how quiet it is for a 4 cylinder turbo. Got a great deal on one of the last 2005s they had. Looking forward to driving up to the Sierras in a couple of weeks up Highway 395 and hitting the dirt roads around the Owens!
VERY GOOD
summerdude3283, 11/26/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is great! I have had 4 other Subarus but this one is by far the best! It is soo nice! I recommend this to anyone who wants an in- expensive reliable car. Its really fun to drive and has lots of room.
Very satisfied
skipp, 11/28/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Handles nice, good gas mileage, seems very solid, and fun to drive
bet the farm
farmboi, 09/09/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Has all of the features I wanted. Plenty of power for my needs. Great mileage to boot: 28-30 or better MPG - better than the EPA rating. It was between this or a Prius. Really wanted to try a Subaru once. I may be hooked. Very few Subarus around here. Gets a lot of admiring looks and interested questions. I don't regret this purchase at all.
Seven Months, 8,000 miles
johnheiam, 12/01/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We are very happy with the car's power, handling, and gas mileage (25 mpg overall). The only quality related problem with the car was the rubber coating on the driver's door handle peeled off in the first month. We have been disappointed in several aspects of the car's design however. The most annoying is that there is only one keyhole on the entire car! This forces you to carry the remote which I hate to do. The second problem is that the front seats are so low the rear seat passengers can't get their toes under the seats so it is uncomfortable for an adult to sit in the back seat. This wasn't true in our 1995 Subaru wagon.
Mostly good
Kathy, 09/28/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car is almost as good as I expected. I like everything except the cruise control. Mine won't work and I can't get Subaru to fix it. I've been to the dealership twice and they say to wait until November when they "might" have a solution. I've tried to contact the regional customer service but so far, no one has bothered to call me back. It's been three weeks since the problem was first reported.
Formula 1 Station Wagon?!?
DukeTrout, 03/21/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My wife and I tested three models of the Outback: 2.5i in manual and automatic and the 2.5 turbo in automatic. I was pretty impressed with the performance of all three, but the acceleration didn't match my 250 hp Dodge sedan. We ended up buying the 2.5 Turbo with a manual. Surprise! This car accelerates like crazy. It pushes you to shift and keep up with the turbo. On top of the fun factor, the interior and exterior are built to perfection. The design is amazing, from the big items like the beefy, high-riding suspension to the tiny details, like grocery-bag hooks that will lock closed with plastic bag straps in place so that you don't spill your Chinese take-out all over the cargo tray.
Quattro-killer
stoweman, 10/27/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I absolutely love this rig. Mileage is so-so, but that is what you get for driving a car that absolutely is fearless in Northern Vermont winters. I switch the stock Potenzas for Hakkapalita RSIs mounted on simple, cheap 16" aluminum wheels in the winter to save the nice 17" stock wheels but also to avoid the wobbly feeling snow build-up that often plagues nice rims in winter. I bought this car to replace a VW Jetta VR6, and am completely happy with my decision. I commute through some of the nastiest roads and weather around, and have NEVER felt that the car would let meet down. It started right up after 24 hours parked in -33 F, and has yet to disappoint me. And it's faaaast!
Whoop de do!
GeneZX11, 12/15/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
For me, the 2005 Sube was a tough choice between it and the Passat wagon, especially with year end discounts on VW 2004's. I think the Passat GLX wagon was a little bit plusher, and supposedly handled a tad bit better. However, the turning point for me was the 250hp, the AWD, Subaru reliability, a 2005 model and 8.7" of ground clearance, vs the VW's 190 hp and FWD, for close to the same price. Essentially, the turbo power fun factor sealed the deal.
Not for people with long legs / big feet
Mitch, 01/07/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I'm 5'11" with 33" inseam and size 11.5 shoes. My driver's shoe get stuck under the dash if I wear dress shoes. The steering wheel is too far away when I have the seat back almost all the way. The front seats are too small, hard and narrow with bolsters that are too hard. The back seat is too hard with no thigh support. Back seat passengers cannot put their feet under the seats which compounds the problem of little legroom. The front passenger cannot stretch out their legs/feet if they have long legs or put them under the dash because the ductwork blocks it. Front maplights do not come on when you open the door...only the back lights do. Windows painfully slow.
Couldn't Be Happier
wyattearp, 12/15/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
With just over 9,000 miles on the car I couldn't be happier. Fit and finish is on par with any car that I have seen. Subaru is know for its reliability and loyal customer following and I can honestly say that I am a believer. The car looks great and has all of the interior comforts that you would expect. Highway driving is sure footed with AWD and the interior is pleasantly quiet. The leather seats are plush but also durable enough to take outdoor activities without worries. Interior space is great especially in cargo area and front seats. Commuting mileage averages 27.5mpg in 60% hwy 40% city driving. Recent 700 mile road trip averaged 31 mpg.
It's fun to drive again!
sierra, 12/29/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R VDC Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car reminded me a car should be fun to drive! If you want to see what this car is about, include a drive on a windy country road.
Some Good and Bad
Jason Meissner, 01/01/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my first Subaru; some of the main reasons for my purchase were the size, versatility, and AWD system. It offers a very rugged look with a solid, safe ride, great sound system and auto climate control. I never thought I would find myself behind the wheel of a wagon, however the style inside and out makes your think twice. So far it has been dependable, but Subaru's customer service has been least favorite on my list thus far. This car is very solid in winter weather, the best I have ever driven. Gas mileage has been horrific, ~23 mpg on mostly open road. I have read other reviews here, and Subaru boasts of increased gas mileage...this is definitely not my experience.
Another check engine light
gvanmoor, 01/20/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
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I also have the check engine light problem with the cruise control light blinking (and the cruise control itself non-functioning). The dealer knows about it but so far hasn't come up with a solution yet. Mileage is excellent; between 25 and 27 mpg overall in mixed driving with Interstate speeds close to80 mph. Gas mileage gets a lot worse from 70 to 80mph; probably the price one pays for the high clearance. The engine gets a little bit noisy at speeds over75 mph. With the 5-speed manual, power is adequate, but nothing special. I can imagine this to be worse with the automatic.
cruise (out of) control
fred, 02/07/2006
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
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Had an '03 Forester with cruise control that worked great. Why did they change it? Have they never heard "if it ain't broke, don't fix it"? Have had it "worked on" several times including sending the unit to regional office for re-programming and it still "hunts" while going down hill. Very annoying! :-( Is the factory going to recall the '05s and correct it? Am losing my patience! Otherwise, I think it is a very fine vehicle.