2005 Subaru Outback 3.0R

The 2005 Subaru Outback 3.0 R is the only sedan in the Outback lineup, a four-door, all-wheel drive car with a boxer 6 engine.  The 3.0-liter DOHC H6 gets 250-hp and 219 lb-ft of torque, and comes only with a 5-speed Sport shift automatic transmission.  Traction control, 17-inch wheels with all-season tires, 4-wheel ABS brakes, foglights, and dual front-side and new side curtain airbags are standard.  The 2005 Outback 3.0 R also adds automatic headlights and a tire pressure monitor.  Because it is a sedan, rear seats do not split-fold, but there is a pass-through to the 11 cubic foot trunk.

The 2005 Outback 3.0 R is much like the XT Limited, in that it offers heated leather seats and heated mirrors, power front seats, a CD changer, trip computer, intermittent front and rear wipers, cruise control, a sunroof, automatic climate control, and a security system.  Leather trim is joined by wood interior accents in the 3.0 R.  Another upgrade is wheel-mounted audio controls.  A rear spoiler is optional, as is an auto-dimming rearview mirror.  A roof rack is not offered with the sedan.  Great handling, ground clearance, and AWD performance always shine for owners of the 2005 Outback 3.0 R sedan, but the 19/25 gas mileage and seat comfort leave a lot to be desired.