2006 Subaru Outback 3.0L R 5AT AWD (245 HP)

Vehicle Overview

For the 2005 model year, Subaru operated some mild changes to the third generation of the Outback, and the most essential one was the addition of a new engine version.

The Japanese automaker introduced the third generation of the Outback in the European market in late 2003 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, but the American customers had to wait a little more to get it. Then, Subaru unveiled it at the 2004 Chicago Auto Show for the 2005 model year. This time, it came fully equipped with everything its drivers wanted and then some more. Besides the car’s look, the 2005 Outback was also fitted with a punchy turbocharged engine and a smooth-running flat-six powerplant, which delighted its customers.

At the front, their organic-shaped headlights but with sharp edges resembled eagles’ eyes. Since the Outback was a crossover, it had a different bumper than its street-oriented sibling, the Legacy, on which it was based. As a result, it had integrated round fog lamps on the outer sides of the apron that flanked a broad and flat air intake in the lower part of the bumper. Last but not least, the functional hood scoop warned other drivers that this crossover could perform very well on pavement.

From its profile, the plastic claddings that decorated the doors were not there just for the look. They protected the bodywork against bush scratches while going on unpaved roads and were effective against shopping carts as well. One of Subaru’s main distinctive design components was the frameless door windows, which made the car look sportier. Furthermore, the thin and blacked-out B-, C-, and D-posts made the Outback look sporty for a station wagon. That impression was emphasized by the raked-forward tailgate at the back, which was adorned by a small roof spoiler at the upper side of the rear window.

Inside, Subaru used higher quality materials on the Outback’s third generation. Base models used fabric upholstery and just a few attractive amenities such as AC, a stereo, and power windows on all four. The XT, which stood at the top of the car’s trim levels, featured power-operated leather seats, an in-dash six-CD changer, and a double-panel moonroof. While the front passengers enjoyed their bolstered seats, there was not enough room for three adult-sized passengers in the back for long travels. Still, the 60/40 split-folding bench seat could easily accommodate three kids to and from their schools. In the trunk, the Outback offered 33.5 cu-ft (948 liters) of space, while with the seats folded, it maxed out at 66.2 cu-ft (1,874 liters).

Under the hood, the automaker installed a choice of three engines, depending on the market. There were two 2.5-liter flat-four powerplants, with or without turbocharging. The top-of-the-line version was powered by a three-liter flat-six, naturally-aspirated engine. There was also a choice of three gearboxes: a four-speed automatic, a five-speed automatic, or a five-speed manual. Power went in all corners, and that was a standard feature.