Sadly, I have a 2001 Outback with paint issues, and the best option at this point seems to be to trade it in and put it behind me. I had planned to have the car for 10 years, but I can't stand the thought of having to have it repainted, and it's not under warranty. It sounds as though the dealer may make me a reasonable offer in trade, although this remains to be seen. So, I am now trying to decide between a 2004 and a 2005 Outback. There are incentives available on the 2004, but the 2005 offers styling I prefer, as well as the side airbags, and a bit more get up & go. Ok you Subaru experts, are there other points that I should be considering??

 

By the way, after driving them four different times, I finally ruled out the WRX because of the increased costs of insurance & fuel. So, an Outback it is!

I read articles in both Road&Track and Motor Trend that indicated that the H6 outback is the way to go. Motor trend went so far as to call the Outback a "zen rally car". I really like the styling of the outback and it has more clearance versus the previous and no more ugly two-tone paint (unless you like that).

 

Happy Hunting

 

Edit for forgetting to add that the 05 is the one I like.

I drive many rental cars in my travels, which include '04 and '05 Subarus, all 2.5 automatic.

They're all holding up well to the abuse (you wouldn't believe how fast the GM stuff disintegrates).

The '05 is laid out a little different then the '04, and is a little roomier.

The '05 has a little better acceleration than the '04.

The "zippiest" is the Forester.

2005, you'll end up regretting that you bought the "old model".

 

Teething problems would be the only worry on a brand new model, but for the looks and those engines, who cares? Even BMW and Mercedes have serious teething problems these days. E's and SL's are experiencing total brake failure...

Bought a 04 H6 3.o, 35th anniversary edition about six months ago. Nice car, basically same cargo room as the Volvo V70 wagon that preceded it. Rides good on the highway, about 24mph around town and the same on the highway at 65+. Haven't had it in the snow yet, however I suspect it will be excellent.

Quality of the workmanship is excellent. One small squeal on drivers window as it lowers, not enough to take back to the dealer. No other complaints. Can't say I have ever had such a trouble free new car, certainly much better first six months that the five Volvos. Would buy another if needed. And the price was most satisfying, offered four percent over what consumer reports said the dealer paid for the car and they accepted without a quibble.

I don't race them and don't ralleye them either. Will leave that opinon to others that are qualified in those areas.

In my humble opinion, there is no comparison, the 05 has the 04 beat in every asspect, especially the GT. Heck even my wife, who has said the 85 turbo wagon she now drives will be her last car, is trying to figure out how we can buy one.

Thanks to those who posted a reply. We did get a 2005 Outback. We just had the windows tinted yesterday, and it looks quite sharp. I'm looking forward to taking it on a road trip before too long.