Subaru Outback 3rd Gen
The third-generation Outback refined Subaru's wagon formula and introduced the sought-after 250 hp turbocharged 2.5XT. These cars are quickly transitioning from used workhorses to emerging classics, prized for their performance, utility, and available manual transmission.
Find one with Spotter →Subaru Outback 3rd Gen sold for a median of $8,100 over the last 12 months, based on 19 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $2,928 and $10,150. 25 currently for sale.
The third-generation Outback (BP), sold from 2005 to 2009 in North America, represented a significant step up in refinement and performance. Sharing its platform with the acclaimed fourth-generation Legacy, it featured a more stylish design, a higher quality interior, and improved driving dynamics. This generation is notable for introducing the turbocharged 2.5XT model, which used a detuned version of the WRX STI's 2.5L engine, making 250 horsepower and creating a true factory sleeper wagon.
Collector interest is focused almost entirely on the turbocharged 2.5XT and the H6-powered 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition. The 2.5XT, especially with the rare 5-speed manual transmission, is the most sought-after variant for its blend of utility and performance. The market is still developing, with many examples serving as daily drivers, but prices for clean, low-mileage, and well-maintained XTs have shown steady appreciation. An average sale price around $10,500 indicates a market that values solid drivers, while top sales over $20,000 point to the growing demand for exceptional survivors.
Buying Tips
- Check for head gasket leaks on non-turbo 2.5L EJ25 engines, visible as external oil or coolant weeping.
- On 2.5XT models, verify the timing belt was replaced around 105,000 miles. Ask if the banjo bolt filters for the turbo oil feed line have been removed to prevent oil starvation.
- Inspect the rear quarter panels, rocker panels, and rear subframe for rust, which is common in cars from snow-belt regions.
- The H6 3.0 R engine uses a timing chain and is not prone to the same head gasket issues as the EJ25, making it a reliable alternative to the turbo model.
- Test drive to feel for torque bind from the center differential during slow, tight turns, which can indicate an expensive all-wheel-drive system issue.
Based on 34 sales, prices range from $305 for project cars to $20,555 for top-spec, low-mileage examples.
111 Subaru Outback 3rd Gen vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 25 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Subaru Outback 3rd Gen cost?
Over the last 12 months, Subaru Outback 3rd Gen sold for a median of $8,100 across 19 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $2,928 and $10,150. There are 25 currently for sale.
How many Subaru Outback 3rd Gen listings are for sale right now?
There are 25 Subaru Outback 3rd Gen listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.