Used 2005 Subaru Outback Consumer Reviews
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Subaru Outback Ltd by NoNickYet
nonickyet, 02/05/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love the Transmission. The ability to go from automatic to electronic shift is great. The standard 4 cyl engine is powerfull enough to get you in and out of tight traffic situations. It rides and handels well. My only complaint would be the cabin area is a little tight.
uses more gas than advertised
geo, 03/11/2006
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Generally an OK car except it barely gets over 20 MPG and there is a noticeable boxer engine vibration noticeable through the gas pedal from the opposed cylinders. Fairly rough on tire wear.
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Turbo grocery getter
no spam, 02/06/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This Subaru rocks!
My Dream Car -- Outback 2.5 XT Limited
Joy Ashton, 01/31/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is very fun (and safe) to drive. Has firm and confident handling. Car is built tightly -- no rattles or noise of any kind -- except the growl of the turbo engine. Unbelievable pick up, especially compared to the 2003 Subaru I had last. The reduction in length makes it much easier to park. The passenger side accommodates very large people.
Great Car on and off road
Boston Khan, 02/07/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had it for over a month now and it is a superb vehicle. I love the look and the drive. Really wanted to step up and buy the XT but decided I did not need extra horse power especially with the premium gas and sticker costs. Compared it with Infiniti G35x, BMW325x, Audi 1.8t, VW 4motion (primary competition was VW), for the price, performance and build Subaru wins hands down. The interior and the exterior asthetically has been improved to now make it a full on contender. With the snow we have had in New England it is a great car to own, glad I did not go for the Legacy which was cheaper after the 3 feet we got in Jan.
love it
keywest305, 03/05/2005
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
This car is a pleasure to drive.The comfort is soft and plush but the build is tough and stable on bumps and turns.This vehicle did awesome in snow.I love the power of the 3.0 250 hp. The engine is smooth quiet and quick.
Best out of 6
Charlie, 04/24/2006
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my 6th Subaru dating back to 1981 and this is the best to date. 4 cylinder is fine for my needs. Have 23,000 miles on vehicle and have averaged 24.8 since purchase. Have gotten as high as 30 on a trip. Goes anywhere and handles exceptionally well (except for the OEM tires). Had them replaced at 22k. A great all around vehicle for the money. High ground clearance makes it easy to enter and exit vehicle. Standard model comes with a ton of options that are extra on other cars.
2005 Outback 2.5XT Limited
Jim Hauff, 03/05/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I absolutely love this vehicle. It pulls through snow, ice and wet pavements with very impressive handling. On dry roads it takes curves and corners better than any vehicle I have every before owned. The acceleration with the turbo boosted engine is very impressive and is probably quicker than the last "muscle car" I owned, a 1959 Ford Galaxie 500 with a 305 hp Police Interceptor 352 cu.in. V8 engine. The interior layout is very ergonomic and the instrument cluster is right where it should be and very visible. Everyone who has ridden in this or driven this car has had nothing but praise for it. I have seen a number of people "checking it out" when parked in lots. I am very pleased.
I love this car!!!
Jill, 02/02/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I was in the market for a wagon with AWD that was safe and fun to drive. After extensive research, I realized the Subaru Outback was the only way to go. I drove the Limited XT and there was no turning back. The car is a dream to drive and excellent in the snow. Bottom line- I love the car.
A great car!
luck11, 05/20/2006
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my 2nd Outback. Love this car. Performance is amazing and it is a comfortable fit. I'm 6'4" and like the fit, but with seats all way back, rear seat foot room is tight. Also, my arms are fully extended to hold 3 & 9 on the steering wheel. Hopefully Subaru will offer telescoping steering column in the future. Caution for those with big hips since the sports seats are narrow and may cause pain. My mother, who is not overweight but has mild arthritis, found that her hips were sore after a while. Still experiencing hesitation upon acceleration which seems to plague the manual turbo. All that said, it is a awesome car and a looker. I would definitely buy this car again.
reminds me of my Audi
wienerfingers, 03/07/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Four days now with new OBXT LTD (silver). Lovely car. No chance to push it yet - supposed to wait 'til after 1,000 miles. Very comfortable, very stable. Tank-like even (this is a good thing on ice and snow). Excellent interior - simple and functional - and a very nice looking vehicle as well. I looked at everything in the <$35k range, and this was an easy pick. VDC might have been nice - I did demo the 6cyl. model - but it is not an option with the turbo.....and I did have to have the turbo. The 6 cyl. is a slug in comparison. No available MP3 on the XT either. But I suppose if Subaru had made both VDC and MP3 optional on the turbo, no-one would bother with the 6.
A good vehicle for active people
J.Sgambelluri, 01/28/2008
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
One immediate benefit is that one steps in, not down into or up into this car. For handicapped or elderly this is immensely helpful. Nice cab proportion and good cargo area layout accommodates everything from the family dog to a kayak if so desired. It is a surefooted vehicle with adequate power even in Southern California freeway traffic. Very quick steering reaction, good control.
Fun to drive-Cheap to own.
Bill Hilow, 07/01/2006
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
2005 Outback XT Limited 5M, 32000 miles - no complaints. The cost of AWD eliminates a few of the creature comforts most cars in this price range have e.g. radio controls on the steering wheel, iPod jack etc. The things that matter most get priority and Subaru needs to be applauded for that. Excellent AWD that is seamless and smooth as a Cadillac, Light vehicle weight, turn signals in the sideviews, fit and finish are unsurpassed and on my Black on Black Outback it is truly flawless. "Jewel like" is how I describe it. Not a cheap car for sure. But it is a statement of quality and independent thinking; performed to a high level. A superbly constructed lightweight rocketship.
Couldn't Be Happier
FirstTimeSubaruOwner, 03/16/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I owned my last car for over 10 years and I bought this with the intention of owning it just as long. This car has the best combination of utility, good mileage, low emissions, and safety (my priorities) that I could find...only the Forester came close. I was fully aware that to maximize these qualities I had give up a bit of power (I'm not passing many cars when driving up to the mountains), but this was a trade-off I was more than happy to make. I went for the comforts of the Limited because I plan to have the car a long time - the sunroof and leather together made that decision worthwhile. Everything about the car exudes solidness and smart design. I couldn't be happier!
wouldn't buy another
steve, 07/09/2006
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Lights burn out. Transmission slips.
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.
Car of my dreams
Barb Bennett, 02/04/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It's not often that a "practical" car is also a blast to drive. I live in the Great White North and this car is better in the snow that anything I have ever driven, including my former hulking 4WD SUV. The handling is great, braking is very quick and nimble but the best part is the interior - all the creature comforts I need like heated leather seats, HUGE moonroof and 6 disc CD. Highway gas mileage is 30 mpg with the 2.5i Ltd which is a 4 cylinder. The only drawback is the back seat - my two sons are 6 foot 4 so they are just a little squeezed for leg room unless the front seats are pushed forward but hey - they are both almost off to college anyway....then it's all MINE.
Great car, horrible gas mileage
jchoi, 03/22/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my first AWD vehicle. It was great this winter where we had over 85" of snow in New England. Unstoppable. Fun to drive, great interior, great utility, and good looking vehicle. Gas mileage from mixed city/highway is about 17mpg. With a rather small gas tank, cruising range is only about 270 miles before you have to fill up again. My wife is the primary driver of the car and drives very conservatively so it's not like she's always in boost. My friend's 340hp S6 wagon gets about the same mileage. The XT is great but it is by no means an S6.
Love/Hate Relationship
Russ, 03/22/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have a love hate relationship with my Outback. It has been into the dealer 9 times in six months. So far problems with the AC cycling every 15 seconds (hot to cold), defective radio, excessive rattles and squeeks in the drivers dash, coolant leaks, and the final straw, a cruise control that won't stay engaged. Performance wise, the car is great. Average 28-29 MPG highway roundtrip from Reno to Oakland and back. Handles great in deep snow and wet roads. Subaru is working the problems but I am about ready to give this one back! Must be the "one" defective Subaru. Would suggest a better stereo as the speakers are marginal at best for long drives.
Life is good in the fast lane
Outback lover, 04/22/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I told the sales guy I need a family car that will satisfy this middle age man's need for speed and style. This car is amazing - if I could custom design a car from the ground up, it wouldn't be much different than the Outback. The European manufacturers aren't my style. This car is very styling without flaunting it. Sound system is decent.
Will get another eventually
lewis sherman, 11/27/2008
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Terrific car except that after about 25,000 miles I got stuck with total brake jobs because NO DEALERS could diag. noises at low speeds. My mileage - not kidding - is terrific on open roads. Always get no less than 33 mpg on the 100 mile trip from the Catskills!! Love the looks of the Forester but hate to give up the Outback.
Love this Car!
Pilgrim, 02/14/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Traded in a 2004 Honda Civic EX at a LOSS to buy this car. At the time we bought the Civic this was our first choice, but the cost was prohibitive. Too bad we did not go with our first choice. If you live in the north this car is the best. Heated seats, wiper de-icers - all designed with us in mind but the AWD is INCREDIBLE! Have had it in 12 inches of fresh snow with NO wheel spin at all. Complaints of lace of power are not as apparent on the manual transmission. Fit & finish are excellent as are the extras such as heated mirrors and seats. No air leaks into the cabin on windy days. If you live in the Great White North and you are considering this car (in any form) BUY IT. You will NOT be disappointed.
Super Value
hkoestner, 04/24/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have 3 Subarus in family, two 2005s - the '05 Outback with 5 speed is a wagon, SUV and sports car rolled into one. As with all my Subies, this one has almost 20k on it and no problems; great handling, superb in snow & comfortable. I am in sales and spend a lot of time in the car driving. Living in snowy winters you get the comfort as well as absolutely superior handling in all weather conditions. I trade them every 3 years or at around 40k, always buying Subies. I only consider Subies. Why change to something else when they work so well. Great looks, great handling, great reliability, comfortable and finally great value.
I love my Outback!
Donna, 04/25/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I owned my Honda Accord for almost 10 years and wanted another car that I could keep that long. I researched safety, performance, reliability, value, mileage, everything. I thought I was going to get the Forester, until I drove it. Too "trucky" for me, and the dealer suggested I drive the Outback. Smooth ride, nice interior, fun to drive; I was sold. I chose the 2.5L engine for the mileage and the fact that it is a Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle, at least in California. The option to shift it into Sport or Manual while climbing hills is huge and really helps the engine performance. It's nice to drive a car that you don't see every fifty feet on the road!
Not for Tall People
Gary, 05/08/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am 5'11." I am tired of leaning forward because the steering wheel doen't telescope. My feet (size 11.5) barely have enough room as a driver and no room as a passenger. The front seats are too hard and a little too small. Brakes are not powerful enough, can be scary at times. Regular mode of transmission is uncooperative. Cannot drive with windows open because of poor buffeting. Handles great. Fantastic turning circle. Quiet. MPG not great around town, but good on highway. Average 20.7 over 10,000 miles.
Turbo Wagon? Yeah baby!
Docthrock, 05/21/2005
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 a significant improvement over the '01 model. Ride, handling, performance, quietness, appointments, comfort all a big step up in quality and value. Subaru really put some thought into the redesign of the Outback. This car is not just a utilitarian vehicle (AWD & wagon) anymore, but a real contender with any car in it's price range.
Great Car...Worth waiting for '05s
rsorganize, 06/30/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R VDC Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Traded '99 Volvo XC. Too many problems/way too expensive to repair. Waited on the '05 Subarus. Worth the wait. Great design and ergonomics, dramatically upgraded safety. Bought VDC for complete safety package. Smooth, quiet, fast. IMO, best value by far in this class, with the upgrades (AWD - Volvo, Audi, Passat). Looking forward to 150,000-200,000 miles (at least!) of safe, fun and quiet driving in all kinds of New England weather.
myBMW wagon
Evan, 05/26/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R VDC Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Instead of hitting the brake in a turn you hit the gas. The 4 wheel drive and way the transmission delivers power rocket the car through any turn. There is no body lean to speak of. It takes all the road imperfections and runs right through them. Nice driver's car. Looked at an Acura TL and this handled better, much tighter turning radius, and 3 times the cargo space. The BMW with equivalent horsepower was way out of my price range. Go for it. I got $1,000 under invoice. They have hidden incentives to the dealer in the form of contests.
There is no No true competion for XT !
sweet_subie, 06/06/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It is a sports car/wagon/suv/sedan/crossover/convertible (open that moonroof, you will know). 5 Star crash test rating, best AWD, 250hp/torque, drives like sedan, shorter/lighter than Honda Accord/Camry/A6, smaller turning radius (34 inches) than most sport sedans, panoramic moonroof, 8.7 inches of ground clearance (more than 40 SUVs), electro gauges, Subaru reliability, top notch build quality, Subaru-backed generous extended warranty. Can buy $3-5k below MSRP. There is NOTHING LIKE THIS!
Great Car!
Baroness, 07/01/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
Great Fun
MWiener2, 06/17/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my XT. Handles itself well off-road as well. Highway driving at 60mph will get you almost 28 mpg. The stock RE92A tires are ok in the summer, but really poor in snow and wet.
Subaru #6
ihtpsswrds, 02/26/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R VDC Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've driven them all (yep, I've had a De Soto); domestic, Japanese, German and American, and this make is the best bar none. The only brand I've been able to consistently put 300k on since the Ford Falcon of the '60's. But this is a lot more fun. All Wheel Drive - it's very addictive. The first time you squeeze a little too much out of a wet curve and you feel the Outback "hunker-down" and dig in its claws, you're hooked to the car like the car is hooked to the road.
My new XT Limited
pthal, 06/08/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car in 5/'05 using the 1,000 dealer incentive for a total of $28,600 (traded in a BMW 328i). All around it has great power but drives a little more like a SUV than I thought it would--sits higher than the previous model. Handling can't compare to a BMW but the acceleration is great. Love my bike rack and I'm impressed by the quality of the interior. The more aggressive stance of the car is what appealed to me vs. previous version.
WHERE'S THE TORQUE?
ROSALIE, 07/01/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R VDC Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Truly a great car except that there is hesitation and lack of torque. I love the styling, sound system, steering, interior (except rear leg room).
Practical but fun to drive!
itonix, 07/08/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned Outback 2.5 XT Limited for a month now and it has met all the expectations both in the city traffic and during a road trip. Car has solid build quality inside and out. As with all turbo's it is not fast from complete stop, but power curve picks up as soon as you start moving. Plenty of power is available for having fun in the passing lane. Handling is very predictable and Momo wheel adds to the sporty feel. Real life gas mileage is 21 for a road trip and 16.5 for a congested city. Ride is surprisingly quiet on the highway. Interior is appointed in visually pleasing but practical way. Plenty of cargo room with rear seats down. Two-part sunroof.
Subaru Outback in Aussie Outback country
AW, 07/03/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Excellent design and a major improvement on the previous model. Solidly put together with a great deal of focus in reducing NVH on the ride. My Outback has the Premium package as available in Aussie, which includes leather interior, double moon roof, and the self leveling rear suspension. Better if there was a possibility to adjust the passenger seat for height.Too low at the moment. The headlamps needed to be beefed up, and I had to replace the original bulbs with the Subaru upgrade kit. It should have been upgraded at manufacturer, and not after buying the car. The steering had developed some clonking sound when going from lock to lock in parking. Requires a warranty repair.
big bang for the buck
jack C., 07/06/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My new Outback Ltd. is extremely comfortable, with outstanding fit and finish. I chose the non turbo version although I was tempted by the power of the turbo; however with the mileage I put on a car I can save about $750 per year with the non turbo. Car is very versatile; will handle people, dogs and equipment and living in Florida it gives me a feeling of security knowing I have all wheel drive for those torrential downpours. This is my fifth Subie, but first Outback and this one is the best!
What a wonderful car
David, 07/29/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car. It's easily the best car I've ever owned.
Awesome Sport Wagon
Rhardi, 07/14/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just picked up my 05 Outback XT and its just great. Handles like a dream with plenty of power from the 250 hp turbo. The re-designed interior is really attractive and the seats are very comfortable. The design of the instrument cluster puts everthing within easy reach. However, I did have one complaint. The XT is listed to include a 4 way power assisted passenger seat. Its in the brochure, and on the Edmunds web site, but its not on the car. If you like this feature you will need to move up to the XT limited model. I was disapointed when it arrived without this feature that I expected but otherwise I love the car and highly recomment it.
Best for now
halbhh, 07/31/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Since we need to haul our 3 large dogs, we need a wagon or SUV. Of all the ones out there this is probably the most cost efficient while still having such a great look and feel. It's interesting to see today the article where it's more fuel efficient than the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. We get 27.5 in town and 30 on the highway (review said that hybrid did 23). She wanted manual, so that's what we have, and its drawback is the slight jerkiness and heavy clutch, but you learn to ease it and we're getting better at it (after 5000 miles). Overall I don't think there's anything close for this price. It's a truly great car/wagon/suv/what-have-you.
LOVE this car!
elfie, 03/01/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had the car for a month now and LOVE it. Everyone who rides in it can't believe it is a base model and how much it costs. It really feels like a luxury car. I went from a minivan to an Outback Wagon and the space has not been an issue as of yet. I have 2 kids in car seats and can fit a third booster seat in the middle in a pinch. Power is sufficient for me and have only felt a very slight lag when the car is loaded with firewood and all seats full with folks. Best feature - cuts through snowy roads like butter! 7" yesterday was no problem for this car. We are now die hard Subaru family and would never purchase anything else. My husband is looking at the Impreza or Outback Sport.
1st Subaru
Gerard, 08/18/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had my '05 Outback XT for 12K miles now. Turbo is great but there is a lag from a standstill with the automatic. Love the "manual" shifting in the mountains. Brakes could be a bit better. Nagging rattle has developed behind the dash. AWD works great in Colorado winters. Handling is awesome. Gas mileage on the highway nears 25, city is closer to 17. Trip computer regularly overrates the mileage by 1 MPG. Rear leg room is only adequate. Reliability has been excellent. Rear cup holders are small and weak.
Wonderful Vehicle
Rich Purdy, 08/24/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We purchased this vehicle in trade for '99 Jeep Grand Cherokee Ltd with hi- preformance V8. Excellent decision! The performance exceeds expectation while quality, comfort and style are all excellent. Tested the Limited but found the sunroof too large and noisy when open. Also, preferred fabric over leather. Only disappointment is manual passenger seat. Narrowed the short list to this vehicle and the Volvo V50 T5. Clearly no comparison - XT rides, handles and outperforms in all areas. This vehicles actually overshadows our previous '01 Volvo V70 T5. Purchased vehicle over the internet (although local) and received exceptional, professional treatment along with favorable numbers.
Good to go
Osman C Kurtulus, 07/20/2004
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
Drives like an Audi with 2/3 of the price.
Wow! What a deal...
DKinGA, 09/06/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is our first Subaru purchase, after much research for an SUV/wagon with kids/pets/transport capability & COMFORT. We had an '01 Honda CR-V which served us well but it was time for an UPGRADE. We were extremely impressed with its handling and performance; that extra 20hp sure makes a difference! Huge moonroof & leather interior were a definite plus. Luxury feel without paying a fortune. With discounts & trade in we ended up paying less for what we paid for CR-V (Standard, stripped model). Suggestion to consumers: Get Firestone/Bridgestone Road Hazard on tires. These are rather expensive tires & it will cover repairs/replacements. It's worth it.
Very happy
Kristian Coyne, 03/25/2005
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 my OBXT for about 4 weeks and have put about 1300 miles on it. I am completely happy with it! The engine pulls like crazy and it loves the snow. The ride is very comfortable. The handling is very good, although I find the rear a little under damped when pushing through bumpy corners. Gas mileage has been about 23mpg (manually calculated--not from the display) so far in mixed driving and I expect it to climb once the engine is fully broken in. The power is fantastic even when over 10,000 feet above sea level because of the turbo. I am looking forward to some light duty off-roading this summer. This is the perfect "Colorado sports car"!
Great Car!
Jared Davison, 07/19/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R VDC Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This Subaru is a very sporty car. This car has a quiter ride then a BMW 3 series. This car handles better then my Toyota Camry. This car is very coimportable
Liked '97 much better
Kiko, 09/16/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R VDC Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
Seats hurt
Gary Wexler, 03/27/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am 5'11' and the steering wheel is too far away (doesn't telescope) when I have the seat back almost all the way. The seats are too hard and there is lousy foot/leg room. It handles very well and is quiet. Average 20.4 mpg over 8,000 miles. Not enough passenger compartment storage. Transmission does what it wants to do, not always what you want. Brakes sometimes feel soft, but still do the job. Ride is good except over uneven surfaces, when it becomes too bouncy, like a Jeep. Overall, a solid car, but not a very comfortable car.
It Scoots!
richgimmel, 07/20/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My previous car was a Cadillac STS... but this Outback XT is at least as good a performer, and a much better buy. It's nimble, very quick and responsive with a surprisingly solid feel. Both my kids are drivers, and they thought I had lost it big-time when I told them I was replacing the Caddy with a Subaru. But after driving the new wheels, they're believers!