Since it was originally an offshoot of the Subaru Legacy, the 2006 Subaru Outback sees many of the same changes in engine power and added features as its less rugged companion. The Outback is an all-wheel drive SUV alternative, with up to 66 cubic feet of cargo room and seating for five. It comes with either a flat-4 or flat-six engine. New to the trim lineup is a 3.0 R and a sedan version of the L.L. Bean wagon.
Sedan Outbacks come as either the 2.5i Limited or the L.L. Bean Edition. Wagons come in all trims. The 2.5i and Limited have a 2.5-liter H4 engine that now gets 175-hp. The 2.5XT is the only turbo available. It hits 250-hp with the flat-4. The 3.0R lineup (base, Bean, and VDC) has a 3.0-liter, 250-hp flat-6. A 5-speed manual is standard, with a 5-speed auto option on all but the 2.5i, which comes with a 4-speed auto.
Also new is more aluminum parts to improve performance by reducing weight. A navigation system is now optional on all, except the VDC, where it comes standard. Base models are nicely outfitted with cruise control, power seats, and a trip computer. As you move up the line and add various packages, you can get a dual moonroof and heated leather seats. The upscale Bean models feature audio controls on the steering wheel and wood trim. ABS and side airbags are standard, but you only get stability control with the VDC.
Owners of the 2006 Outback love the turbo and H6 speed and power, the outstanding AWD in snow and rough weather, the quiet and smooth overall ride, and the cargo versatility of the wagon. Downsides include a cramped backseat, a rough ride on long trips, some turbo lag, so-so fuel economy, and the lack of audio controls on the steering wheel in most trims.
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The car had many mechanical issues including a leaking power steering pump, a problem with the air conditioning compressor, and the hoses needed replacement. It had been worked on before but all of the rivets and bolts had not been replaced. It would have cost more money than it was worth after the purchase price and insurance was half the asking price per year.Sep 05, 2022
by Mike L
Jan 17, 2022
Great car, very clean, maintenance records fit entire ownership of the car. Extensive repairs and maintenance from a great couple.
Very happy w the car. Jan 17, 2022
by Mark J
Jan 13, 2022
..thought I was reviewing a specific car in Indy.. I love the Outback model.. and the styling up until 2009 or 10 was sleek and very classy.. low center of gravity… and the interior space is excellent.. I’ve owned a 2000 and a 2001.. I’d take any year up until the became heavier and boxier..Jan 13, 2022
User rating:
by Anonymous
Sep 05, 2022
The car had many mechanical issues including a leaking power steering pump, a problem with the air conditioning compressor, and the hoses needed replacement. It had been worked on before but all of the rivets and bolts had not been replaced. It would have cost more money than it was worth after the purchase price and insurance was half the asking price per year.Sep 05, 2022
by Mike L
Jan 17, 2022
Great car, very clean, maintenance records fit entire ownership of the car. Extensive repairs and maintenance from a great couple.
Very happy w the car. Jan 17, 2022
by Mark J
Jan 13, 2022
..thought I was reviewing a specific car in Indy.. I love the Outback model.. and the styling up until 2009 or 10 was sleek and very classy.. low center of gravity… and the interior space is excellent.. I’ve owned a 2000 and a 2001.. I’d take any year up until the became heavier and boxier..Jan 13, 2022
by Josh H
Jun 16, 2021
Basically Fine car with enough features to drive in comfort.Jun 16, 2021
by Anonymous
Jan 29, 2021
I thought everything looked ok on this vehicle. Happy Jan 29, 2021
by Ralph C
Nov 02, 2014
I have only had this car a few days but it's been fun to drive and was surprised by the way this car handles! Driving through the mountains both up and down hill, the standard 2.5i has plenty of power even with 130,000 miles on it. The AWD drivetrain really does work great, I can feel the tranfer case shift and adjust the power to the wheels when going around long low banking curves downhill. I'm very happy that I choose this car as my utility drive around second car. I got the power I wanted, got the gas mileage which was my main reason for getting a second car, plus an added surprise the great handling and tight suspension.
Updated 5-2015
I've had the car 7 months and still like driving it but I have found some things that I feel Subaru have fallin behind on, my 1994 Chevy PU would lock the doors and turn on the head lights when it would start to get dark! My 2006 subaru Doesn't automaticly lock the door when the car starts to move or the brake is released and it isn't even a option. I haven't had to lock doors for over 20 years this is my biggest complaint as I always forget to and if I ever got into a accident I might just be flying out. Also this is the Sqeekest car I have ever owed. I replaced the struts and all the Front end bushing as they were over due at a 130,000 miles and now I'm going to have to do the same to the rear end as the Squeaking is getting louder. I'm begining to wish I hadn't bought into the Hype of the Subaru brand as I Put over 160,00 miles on 5, 1-ton work trucks and they didn't squeak or need all there suspension replaced at 132,000 miles. This morning I found out that I have a oil leak coming from a Head Gasket $1,600.00 to fix, It's a problem this manufacture has had for 20 year and they didn't solve until after 2009 models, where they changed gasket materials. Per a Mechanic they have been making replacement gaskets to solve this problem for lots of years but they continued to use the old style on new cars all the way up to 2009 models. Which is great for Subaru Service shops as they Charge way over $2500.00 to replace the gaskets. Beware of used Subaru's up to 2009 models as a head gasket replacement will be needed.Nov 02, 2014
by Dave G
Nov 18, 2013
My favorite thing about this Outback is the "Black Leather Interior" Subaru has some sort of fetish against Black leather in their Outback's. Amen to the Gods because I love it with comparison to my LL Bean sedan with Beige leather that shows everything. I'll continue to pray someday Subaru will walk to the dark side and offer something other than lovely beige or dark, yes you guessed it ... Beige interior. While I'm venting I'll also say that I'll continue to buy"old" Outback's because I prefer a car no SUV for me. I really like the ride and style while still being able to drive through a foot of snow like it's only a few inches. Nov 18, 2013
by Dave G
Mar 07, 2013
At the time of purchase I was unaware of just how different the 06 Outback would be from the 01. I'm happy to say even after years of ownership I still Love it because it's a blast to drive and fun! Being a consultant off/on for years at a major tire manufacture often bought their brands. Recently my mechanic recommended replacing the OEM tires with Cooper GS4 Touring, although we haven't had a foot of snow I'm pleasantly surprised how quiet and really like the Cooper tire's versus the Bridgestone Potenza's.
Subaru - Hey anyone listening?? I refuse to own an SUV!!! Your most loyal owners bought their Subaru because they are quirky and sleepers. "No desire to own or drive an SUV"Mar 07, 2013
by jeronimo g
Aug 05, 2012
This is good, reliable car that has room for multiple hockey bags and sticks. Good freeway driving. Slow to respond when stepping hard on gas. Doesn't feel like you grip the road well, and feels like you are floating on water.Aug 05, 2012
by John R
Jul 18, 2012
Assuming the engine is repaired, this is a fine car. Subaru is excellent for service and warranty work if needed(I have never needed any work until now) Great tires (Yokohama) are 10 months old and handles great. Nicest car I have ever owned. Bach seat has enough room and hatchback is great for groceries. Color and body are very attractive. A/C and heater both work great. All other options work also(electric windows, locks, CD player, am/fm, electric heated front seats.Jul 18, 2012
by Anonymous
Jan 20, 2012
wonderful car, I have yet to meet a Subaru owner who did not like their cars. Good handling in the snow, I take it camping and enjoy the cargo space. This is my first Subaru. Can not wait to get another one next year.Jan 20, 2012
by Anonymous
Aug 16, 2011
The car comes with every option that I would like to have except a doc for an MP3 player. The design is well planned for comfort and performance. The 4 cylinder engine has plenty of power for every day driving or high speed cruzing. The selectiable manual / auto transmission satisfies the need for compression shifting without a clutch. I would purchase the car again for freezing climate and snow driving it can't be beat.Aug 16, 2011
by Susan S
Feb 09, 2010
The car was clean, with new tires, low mileage. It had been
thoroughly serviced: oil change, new wiper blades. The car
handles very well, mileage is good, and it is quiet. I live in a
remote area in northeast Minnesota, and all wheel drive is a
necessity. This car is perfect for those conditions.Feb 09, 2010
by Garreth S
Jun 06, 2008
Good wagon for curb jumping. Does go through mud well too!Jun 06, 2008
by Robert G
Apr 14, 2008
Amazing car with a great engine. Better fuel efficiency than the WRX, but not as powerful or fun to drive. Better ground clearance than other Imprezas, and still small enough to drive easily. Great car/driver communication.Apr 14, 2008
I can't open the passenger window or the two rear windows. The only one that works is the driver's window. Is this some child safety feature I can turn off or is there some problem? If there is a child safety setting on the windows, where is it and how can I turn it off again?
2006 Legacy Outback • 2.5i • 148K miles: I was driving home after visiting my handicap sister one Sunday evening (as most other Sunday's). It was a beautiful day (55 degrees). I was 45º by now in the evening, and a little chilly so I turn on the heat. The vents blew hot air out at first, then it blew cold air (not cool) cold...That was my first indication something strange was happening! Then all of a sudden I saw the needle of the temp-gauge leave its usual "mid" position and rise up toward the red. I pulled over to check under the hood. The reservoir was overflowing and bubbling over (spilling out). The next day the Subaru dlr said the Sub-radiator fan shorted. It needs to be replaced and you'll probably need head gaskets too.(I gave approval to replace the fan only). The Subaru dlr called me a few days later, "Its fixed come and pick it up". I got home no problem (20 miles, the temp needle stayed in the middle as usual the whole way). That evening I went out. Same scenario occurred again. I turned on the heat and it went from blowing hot air to blowing "cold" air and again, I watched the needle leave its mid position and go up the red the same as before. º No oil in the coolant reservoir º Oil still honey colored (not milky) º Leaks (very little oil on ground, No coolant though) º No white smoke whatsoever º No noise, no piston slap or knocking (very smooth) I reported back to the Subaru dlr, they investigated and said, "All is working properly, you need to replace the head gaskets and also check for warped heads. I have my doubts with my knowledge of rebuilding American V-8 engines many years ago. I asked if they did a compression check? They said, "Why, that won't tell anything". Is that so? (I thought "once a leak always a leak" no)? How is it possible that it can it leak at random?
before this started I had a coolant leak/ fixed it but car would still shut off/changed fuel pump and throttle body along with the tune up but still shuts off after 10 mins.. Cant get it to shop because it dies when driving .
Looking at to buy, no accidents, regular maintenance, 2016 both catalytic converters replaced at 145,000, 2018 Timing belt replaced, steering rack/pinion, water pump, drive belts, and valve cover gaskets all replaced, 2019 replaced front axles, driver side outer tie rod, both lower control arm assy, radiator assy and radiator hoses, oil pan and gasket, alignment done, 2020 tires replaced at 185,000 miles, 2021 recall on airbag done, it is a California car, asking price is $4,000 dollars, is this a good idea or bad idea?
I’m going to rebuild a ceased engine on my 2006 Subaru Outback . It’s a 2.5 SOHC engine . My question is to what extent should I go with it ? Shaved heads , piston cylinders , etc . Also how can I find the torque specs on engine bolts ?
Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: leather
Convenience Features
Center console: front console with storage · Cupholders: front · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Storage: cargo tie-down anchors and hooks
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: manual · Power adjustments: 8
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time · Limited slip differential: rear
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Armrests: rear center with pass-thru · Center console trim: wood · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Center console: front console with storage · Cupholders: front · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Storage: door pockets
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: manual · Power adjustments: 8
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time · Limited slip differential: center
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3
Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Center console: front console with storage · Cupholders: front · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Storage: cargo tie-down anchors and hooks
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: manual · Power adjustments: 8
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time · Limited slip differential: center
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3
Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Center console: front console with storage · Cupholders: front · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Storage: grocery bag holder
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: manual · Power adjustments: 8
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time · Limited slip differential: center
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3
Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Center console: front console with storage · Cupholders: front · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Storage: cargo tie-down anchors and hooks
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: manual · Power adjustments: 8
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time · Limited slip differential: rear
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Passenger Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: manual · Power adjustments: 4
Rear Seats
Type: bench
Roof
Moonroof: power glass · Rear sunroof: power glass · Roof rack color: black