Outback III (BP) vs Passat Variant B5: which is better?
Subaru Outback III (BP) (2003–2009) vs Volkswagen Passat Variant B5 (1997–2005): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Subaru Outback III (BP)
Volkswagen Passat Variant B5Specifications
| Subaru Outback III (BP) | Volkswagen Passat Variant B5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2003–2009 | 1997–2005 |
| Body | estate | estate |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.5 | 1.8 Turbo |
| Power, up to | 165 hp | 150 hp |
| Torque, up to | 226 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 730 mm | 4 675 mm |
| Width | 1 770 mm | 1 740 mm |
| Height | 1 545 mm | 1 500 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 670 mm | 2 703 mm |
| Fuel tank | 64 L | 62 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 29 450 ₸ | ≈ 15 075 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Subaru Outback III (BP)
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Subaru EJ (2.0–2.5) engine: head gasket leaks
Engine (Subaru EJ (2.0–2.5)): head gasket leaks; oil consumption; head gasket on the EJ253.
Volkswagen Passat Variant B5
Pros
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Gearbox ZF 5HP/6HP: bushing and mechatronics wear
- Age: the last cars were built in 2005, condition is everything
Gearbox (ZF 5HP/6HP): bushing and mechatronic wear; shift shocks.
Which one to choose
- Outback III (BP) — if you care more about: power, torque, fuel tank.
- Passat Variant B5 — if you care more about: wheelbase, kz tax 2026.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Outback III (BP) or Passat Variant B5?
Outback III (BP): up to 165 hp, Passat Variant B5: up to 150 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Outback III (BP) — about 29 450 ₸, Passat Variant B5 — about 15 075 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.