Used 2005 Subaru Outback Wagon Consumer Reviews
Used Outback for sale
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
2005 Subaru Outback Turbo Wagon
Andy, 11/11/2018
updated 11/18/2024
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is my third Subaru which I purchased new in 2005 after moving back to Denver from Atlanta. I had a 2002 Outback which I was very pleased with, but wanted a turbo for all the mountain driving I do. The added performance of the 2005 made a huge difference. The car's traction in snow and handling in all conditions have been excellent. I have over 170,000 miles on the car and have recently had to replace wheel bearings and struts, but overall reliability has been very good. I dread having to replace the vehicle if maintenance costs continue to rise because the turbo charged engine and standard transmission are no longer available in the Outback model. I no longer own this vehicle as I traded it in on a 2019 Outback 3.6R.
- Performance
- Comfort
3,0R VDC is great!
KarlB, 08/05/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R VDC Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I've been super impressed with the Outback, it has fantastic build quality and drives like a sports car, yet can go offroad most places a large SUV can. Power is great with the 3.0R being one of the most powerful 3.0liter engines in a production car in the world. The all wheel drive system works amazingly well, there is never even the slightest hesitation, no delay engaging as in other cars without permanent AWD.
2005 Subaru Outback for sale near you
Showing 3 of 94 listings
- 2.5i Limited WagonMSRP: $4,995149 mi away
- 2.5i WagonMSRP: $6,990150 mi away
- 2.5i WagonMSRP: $5,995202 mi away
See all 94 listings
Never Again
Keith, 02/03/2006
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R VDC Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 6 people found this review helpful
I dislike this Subaru more than any car I have ever owned. I avoid driving this car rather than deal with the car's quirky and dangerous characteristics. Examples: Climbing a hill at highway speeds the car shifts between 4th & 5th gears every 4 seconds on average. The car responds to quick acceleration maneuvers with a 2-3 second delay before accelerating; not a good thing on busy Southern California freeways. The car has only 8K miles. After nine months as a Subaru owner I am ready to visit my Toyota dealer and eat the trade-in costs. I hate this car!
Don’t share the same love for this car as my wrx
Steve Winnie, 04/02/2019
updated 10/07/2021
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 6 people found this review helpful
I fell in love with Subaru’s after I owned an 02 wrx wagon. I sold it with 275,000+ miles! It was an amazing car. It was very reliable and fun and never let me down. But rust got the best of it :( So I bought this 05 outback XT thinking I would love it just as much. But I was WRONG. Now I was a little jaded because the previous owner modified the car quite a bit and the work that was done was cobbed and not up to the standards I liked. The car also had 182,000 miles on everything except the engine which was rebuilt before I got it. Here are the good aspects: the car is AMAZING in the snow, it’s comfortable on the highway, there is plenty of storage in the back, and it’s a fun little sleeper ( no one expects a station wagon to have over 250 HP under the hood!). BUT gas mileage is not the greatest (if you stay out of boost and cruise along on the highway you can get about 25mpg. The best I’ve ever done was about that) parts are expensive (you should always use OEM Subaru parts or an upgraded aftermarket part otherwise you will have issues), gas is expensive (premium only) and oem braking is horrible (I up graded the brakes with ceramic pads and drilled and slotted rotors, they stop well and look awesome). I spent $3000+ in parts in the first 4 months I owned this car (I did all the work myself since I work on cars for a living). But now that everything has been fixed properly, I really enjoy owning and driving this car. Lately I’ve only had to do oil changes and tire rotations. My tip to you is If you don’t work on cars, do not buy one of these unless you have some money saved up or you know someone who can work on these cars for a reasonable price. The money I spent in parts would have easily been doubled if i had to bring it to a shop.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
First time Subaru owner
chip, 01/13/2008
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
This is my first Subaru after a string of Hondas and I am generally pleased after 2 1/2 years and 38,000 mi. of ownership. It's a lot of fun to drive and, other than the problems with the headlights and windshield, has been quite reliable.
Terrible
Donna, 03/16/2009
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
The first year I owned it - had to get new brakes, and new tires. Headlights burned out twice. Headlights are terrible - almost ran into the back of a tractor hauling a wagon because I was coming down hill and the lights don't shine upwards at all. 2nd year, had to get new Rotors, Brakes and tires (I made the mistake of buying the same Bridgestone tires). Terrible in the snow - Rear end constantly fishtails - even with new tires. Car sways as if the chassis is going to fall off the frame. I am so disappointed. This is my third Subaru, but will not buy one again.
Frustrated!!
kdurre, 02/23/2010
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
I'm sure I have a lemon but with 89,000 miles there is not much I can do. I do like the car other than the CV joint and Rear wheel baring need to be replaced. The CD player may or may not play. The front driver seat burns you when you use the seat warmer. The passenger seat "passenger sensor" dings all the time unless the seat belt is locked in. The windshield rattles unless papers are pushed down between the glass and dash, even after one windshield replacement. And the transmission lurches to shift until it warms up.
The most boring car in known universe
andysomogyi, 06/25/2011
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
7 of 21 people found this review helpful
I detest this car. Slow, gutless, handles like a barge and the gas milage is pitiful. Only reason I bought this pile of junk is that friend of mine wanted to get rid of it, and it was cheap. It has one of the worst transmissions I've ever driven, now I hate automatics, but this one is particularly bad. The gear ratios is bizarre, shifts are slow and sloppy, and 4'th is way too low. This is one of the worst handling cars I've ever driven, body roll is about as bad as a mid 70's Buick. Engine is truly gutless, and whats worse is given how pathetically slow this car is, the gas milage is even worse. I avg 15 city, and even with the most careful driving, best I can get is about 25 highway
Great Car
Alaire, 05/01/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love driving this car! This is the second Subaru for my family. The AWD is great for winter driving and the heated seats are a true joy when it is cold out. No matter what I would buy this car again. No question about that!
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.
Turn off the Alarm Please!
E. Knight, 05/17/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
For a first time new car buyer, the Subaru Outback is great! The only thing I don't like is the seatbelt safety bell rings constantly when the car is running and you are not even in the car. The alarm goes off when no one is in the passenger seat because it was kicked back too far. The drivers seat even went off when I was driving down the highway and buckled up. That was scary! The other thing was that the rubber molding in the rear wheel well fell off. It needs more behind the seats pockets for holding goodies. The glove box never shuts on the first try.
smooth yet tough
crusin' texas, 05/29/2005
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 perfect vehicle for almost any occasion. Rush hour, around town, highway or back country roads. It handles superbly and responsive. If folks are aware of the notoriously short Texas Highway on-ramps then you'd appreciate this car's power. Can go from a mere coasting at 20 mph to 70 in no time. Able to move down and around country roads without fishtailing all over the road. Around town, the maneuverability and quickness is great. Only had one problem -- stereo and climate control unit failure. But the dealer serviced the car quickly and provided a loaner until car was fixed.
Quality Cars
Jody, 05/27/2005
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 an amazing car. I have driven BMW's, Land Rovers, and some other top line vehicles. Standard features of the Subaru are options on cars like BMW's taking the sticker price well into the high 30's and 40's. The Subaru is an amazing quality car, with unique features. In addition, it is put together in America. I am hooked!
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.
Best Subaru I've owned
John, 06/01/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my 8th Subaru and I think it's the best. The fit, finish, and power of this 2.5XT Limited is far superior to any previous Subaru I've owned. Some minor complaints like no upfront interior lighting and relatively poor gas mileage and the requirement of premium fuel do not negate the pure "fun to drive" quality of this car. There are some annoying whistles that start at around 40mph but the removal of the cross bars on the roof might stop that problem. I bought the red garnet pearl with the taupe interior and manual transmission. I'm surprised at how many people say what a handsome car it is and some young boys told me I've got a "dope" car. Thats' a good thing I hope.
Nice to drive
Dave, 06/02/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Driving is fun again; while I liked this Limited in the show room it has been a delight to drive. In the snow it was a dream, smooth and very much in control. The power ports are well placed. One surprise that was unexpected is that you can leave an interior drivers spot light on by accident and find the battery dead in the morning. No auto shut off as all of my past cars. I would love to say I have all the power I need with the 4 but not always without really downshifting to get things moving. I would have picked the 6 or turbo but the higher priced gas is needed. Rear door too narrow at times. The family loves it and it never gets to rest in the driveway 15K in 6 months.
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.
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.
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!
Great car
SECCOP, 07/25/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Car has been great in rain, ice and snow. I have never been stuck. Comfortable seats and good view of the road. I am not looking for a race car but the four cylinder version needs more lower end torque.
Outback is Outfront
Jim Hauff, 07/26/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've owned several 4x4's in the past, but never an AWD. I bought the Outback after extensive research and test drives against several other comparable mid to full size SUVs. I have not, for a moment, regretted my decision to purchase this little gem. I bought an 2.5FX Limited wirh all the options and an auto 5 speed Sport Shift transmission. I still haven't gotten over the power this vehicle exhibits. When the turbo kicks in, it's like going into hyperdrive. The interior is excellently finished and ergonomic. The exterior fit and finish is like cars costing much more. The only problem -- gas mileage goes down when you hit the turbo, who cares? It's too much FUN!
We always buy a Subaru
Pat Wood, 08/17/2005
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
Subaru is a choice of our family because of it's reliability and the service at the Dealership, if needed. We feel it is one of the safest cars to drive on the open road in all kinds of weather. (Especially the western NY weather!) We have owned many Subaru's and only buy a new one because of upgrading.
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!
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).
20,000 miles, 8 month review
occking, 08/30/2005
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
So far very pleased with the vehicle. Gas mileage has steadily improved since new. I do mostly highway driving, going from near Providence RI to Montreal every few weeks; on those trips average (actual) 26.5 to 28 mpg. Trip computer always indicated 1 to 1.5 mpg higher than actual. The front windows seem to fog up very easily however, and I haven't figured out a way yet with the heating system how to eliminate that from happening. Took quite some time to get used the the very low center armrest in the vehicle. Have an excellent place to put my XM Commander unit (satellite radio) right on the center console.
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.
Great Car - Poor Transmission
R. Wagner, 12/21/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my fourth Subaru. I really enjoy it. The build quality is the best I've ever seen. Winter weather performance is unbeatable. That being said.....The transmission has a mind of it's own. When the engine is cold, the transmission will downshift at the slightest touch of the accelerator. You almost have to use the sportshift just to control the downshifting. Cold weather starting is just acceptable. It has always started, but we haven't hit the coldest part of the winter yet in Wisconsin. The seat belt sensors are malfunctioning. The warning beeps even when no one is in the passenger seat. Still, there is no other car I would rather drive on a snowy day.
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.
Subaru Outback
eddybauer1, 12/16/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I rented a 2005 Outback last week, check engine light came on, dash rattled on rough snow covered roads, flashed Err 55 where trip miles should be and for a long time, the cruise control light flashed, plastic around gear selector is easily scratched, cramped seating for 6 foot tall people, especially on long trips, it is too narrow up front, and your legs get tired easily. Seats are too firm. I did like the heated seat option, and the AWD. Steering and handling were good, stereo was average. It does have a very refined transmission and engine, it shifts smooth, and the auto stick is fun. Build quality is average.
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.
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.
Great car!
Darby, 12/17/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my third Subaru and the best one yet. I followed its development for months last year, and when I first encountered the Atlantic blue/granite trim 2.51 sport wagon, it was love at first sight. Comfortable, peppy ride. Tasteful appointments. Definitely the best car for me! Give it a try...
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!!!!
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.
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.
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.
fantastic car
domestics stink, 10/06/2004
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 poor nissan pickup truck is getting lonely. I can't get enough of the outback. Comfy, quick, knockout to look at. Subaru has truly out done themselves. We have the L.L.Bean Edition with the boxer 6...wooooohoooo. And having a bit of a growl when you stomp on the gas kinds feels good too. Only complaint is no memory seats. Small small price to pay. Fantastic value.Kudos to Subaru for taking the next step to making the perfect car.
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.
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
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.
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.
Refined excellence exceeds expectations
Katway, 09/28/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R VDC Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The Outback 3.0R VDC is an absolutely terrific crossover. It handles like a BMW, takes rough roads like a Land Rover, and accelerates like a Volvo V70R. In my brief ownership, this vehicle has exceeded all expectations. Subaru is clearly making a forward push toward the luxury cars and the 3.0R VDC certainly delivers. I own a Volvo V70R that I like very much, but the Subaru is by far my favorite to drive. It's fun to drive in the city, on the highways, and in the country side. I'm a very pleased owner and look forward to years of enjoyment in this vehicle.
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!
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.
Fun to Drive
bkluger, 09/22/2004
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
Just completed a 1200 mile roundtrip that involved interstate highway, two- lane road, and off-road driving. Thoroughly impressed by the overall performance and the highway mileage of better than 25 MPG. After looking and test driving a Jeep Gran Cherokee, Honda Pilot, and an Acura MDX. We decided on the Outback LL Bean, because it represented the best value for our dollar, plus it's fun to drive!
This is a Subaru???
NateThomas, 09/27/2004
2005 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Two years ago I almost bought a WRX. Last year I almost bought a Forester XT. I am glad I waited for the Outback XT. This car is so superior to the '99 Outback I had before. Looking at the interior I would think it was a German car. The performance is unreal and the reliability is excellent. The tires are a weak point and they will be replaced with Falken 512's soon. For the price, this is the best car available. I love that added ground clearance. It will definately come in handy during New England winters and during camping trips in the White Mountains.