2019 Subaru Liberty Reviews

The first lesson for first-car buyers is to forget power and performance - go for safety, reliability and low running costs. Today's car choices are far wider and considerably less basic that Peter Brock's first car, a stripped-down 750cc Austin Seven. But the exercise of buying your car demands patience and - if possible - expert consideration.Compared with buying new, you will save money purchasing a used car. But be aware that a used car may require expensive repair costs, may be less fuel efficient and that its safety standards are likely to be lower than a new car. The basic safety gear you want are two airbags and ABS brakes.Every car is different because each has been treated differently during its life. Be cognisant that cheap new cars are bought on a budget and the penny-pinching owners may skimp on regular servicing and repairs. Steer away from hotted-up cars - you want reliable, easy-to-fix transport here, not a temperamental, ground-hugging runt that sounds like it's lost its exhaust pipe.There are a few quality used car models that have lasted the distance. These have retained a solid reputation for quality and reliability, have a strong spare parts back-up, simple service schedule and are renown for just being easy to live with.The only downside is they won't be the newest car on your block and they're unlikely to be the most rewarding ride of your life. But you have to start somewhere. Just like Peter Brock.CHOICESThese are some used cars, not in any particular order, that should be reliable first-time cars. But each car is different. Ensure your car is professionally checked before buying and that all the car's service papers are accurate, regular and preferably stamped by a competent service centre.NISSAN TIIDAThis model is the evolution of the Pulsar and, I admit, isn't the prettiest car on the road. Fellas, perhaps stay away from this one. But the model is enduring because of its simplicity and low running costs. It has a decent amount of metal around the passenger cell to minimise intrusion in case of a collision, a neat and functional interior with comfortable seats, big boot in the sedan model (and more than adequate in the hatchback version), and four doors so your friends won't have to squeeze past you on the way to access the rear seat.2006 TIIDA TI SEDANCost: $9200 with 79,000kmEngine: 93kW/174Nm 1.8-litre autoFuel economy: 7.8 L/100kmSafety features: ABS brakes, 4 airbags, brake assist Crash rating: 4-starMAZDA3Two of my daughters drive these and love them for their comfort and features. Later models are preferable because of the electronic stability control, but earlier versions had at least four airbags and ABS brakes plus a four-star crash rating. Because everyone loves these, they're going to cost a bit more than some rival cars. But Mazda's quality name should extend to the day you sell it allowing it to retain a high resale value.2006 MAZDA3 MAXXCost: $11,500 with 75,000kmEngine: 108kW/182Nm 2.0-litre autoFuel economy: 8.2 L/100kmSafety features: ABS brakes, 6 airbags, brake assistCrash rating: 4-star.MITSUBISHI LANCERThese have been made for decades yet nearly all carry a name for reliability. One model, bought with 247,000km on the clock, stayed trouble-free in my household for four years before finding yet another owner. That's not uncommon with Lancers. They're very simple cars but early models fall down badly in safety equipment, so look at 2003 and younger if possible. The 2007-plus models have a five-star crash rating. It doesn't really matter which model you buy but you may have better resale in the future with an automatic with four or five doors that will appeal to a wider audience.2006 LANCER LS SEDANCost: $10,000 with 70,000kmEngine: 115kW/220Nm 2.4-litre autoFuel economy: 8.5 L/100kmSafety features: ABS brakes, 2 airbagsCrash rating: 3-star.TOYOTA COROLLAThis is a stablemate of suburban living with the distinction of being a member of practically every Australian household since the 1970s. It's always been a simple and reliable car without any major hiccups, though the Toyota badge means there's a premium - justified or otherwise - on the price. Paying the extra on the Corolla name alone may not be worth it - look closely at each car before purchase. Toyota was one of the last major carmakers to introduce extra features - such as additional airbags and stability control - on base versions. Better models started from 2000 and the more upmarket versions (Levin and Ultima, for example) are preferred.2006 COROLLA CONQUEST SEDANCost: $10,500 with 75,000kmEngine: 93kW/161Nm 1.8-litre autoFuel economy: 7.4 L/100kmSafety features: ABS brakes, 2 airbagsCrash rating: 4-star.MITSUBISHI MAGNAThis is something a bit bigger and yet is generally priced about the same as the smaller cars. Mitsubishi made these in Australia and progressive years honed the product to excellent reliability while ho-hum styling and performance slashed resale. That makes this big family car good buying today. Magnas ended their run in 2005 and today these are the pick of the bunch, even though the powerplant was a 3.5-litre V6 with a four-speed auto. These cars were common in government and rental fleets but don't be put off - that means they've been regularly se rviced and repaired.2005 MAGNA ES SEDANCost: $5000 with 120,000kmEngine: 155kW/316Nm 3.5-litre V6 autoFuel economy: 11.5 L/100kmSafety features: ABS brakes, 4 airbags, traction controlCrash rating: 3-star.SUBARU LIBERTYAnother biggish car that offered high safety standards for its era. The later Libertys are also attractive, well equipped - in their day they weren't a cheap car - and roomy. The downside may be lacklustre performance, so-so fuel economy and some high-priced spare parts but we're primarily chasing a reliable and safe car choice here. The Libertys are all-wheel drive sedans and wagons which aids safety on wet roads rather than giving them any off-road ability (for that, look at the Subaru Outback).2006 LIBERTY 2.5i SEDANCost: $11,500 with 75,000kmEngine: 121kW/226Nm 2.5-litre autoFuel economy: 9.5 L/100kmSafety features: ABS brakes, 6 airbags, traction controlCrash rating: 5-star.

Subaru has kicked goals at every turn since it went all all-wheel-drive. The audacious move saw it go from also-ran to leader of the pack and it has never looked back.If the awesome Impreza WRX is the hero model that gives the brand its zing, the Liberty is the real brand leader.The 2.0R entered the fray in 2006 when it replaced the 2.5i. It was much the same as the 2.5i, but built on the success of its predecessor and brought more to the table in the form of goodies. Most not able among a raft of changes was the engine, which boasted double overhead camshafts where the older model only had a single cam per bank. With better breathing courtesy of the extra cams the flat-four produced 20 kW more than the older engine.A five-speed manual gearbox came standard, with a four-speed auto an optional choice. The big advantage of the Liberty when compared to its rivals is its all-wheel drive system. The others, of course, are all front-wheel drivers.In the Liberty's case the system is a permanent all-wheel drive system so all four wheels are being driven all the time and there's no delay in grip as there can be with systems that are front-wheel drive until it's determined that grip is needed at the rear wheels. With grip on tap all the time there's no loss of poise when things turn slippery on wet or muddy roads.The Liberty simply gets on with the job, no fuss, sure-footed and stable. The upgraded engine of the 2.0R is no fireball, but it has all the punch a family needs. The 2.0R was released midway through the model cycle, so the looks are a bit plain, but that shouldn't deter anyone from buying it. Inside, the cabin is quite roomy and well laid out with comfortable and supportive seats, and with a nice feel to the trim and fittings.IN THE SHOP The Liberty is a well-built car and little really goes wrong with them, at least on a grand scale. They do need regular servicing; oil changes are a must for long  engine life, so look for a service record. Look also for oil leaks  around the engine. The cam belt needs changing every 100,000 km, so check that the changes have been done as required. The front suspension bushes can wear so have them checked. Owners also report having to regularly replace headlamp globes that fail on low beam.IN A CRASHWith all-wheel drive grip, front and side airbags and ABS brakes the Liberty came standard with pretty much everything needed to keep you out of trouble, hence the 5-star ANCAP rating.UNDER THE PUMP Subaru claimed an average fuel consumption of 9.1 L/100 km and that  was backed up by real life results on road tests at the time of the 2.0R's launch. The minimum octane rating was 95, while Subaru said E10 fuel was ok if the minimum octane rating was maintained.AT A GLANCEPrice new: $33,990 to $36,490Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol;121 kW/187 NmTransmission: 4-speed auto, 5-speed manual; AWDEconomy: 9.1 L/100 kmBody: 4-door sedan, wagonSafety: 5-star ANCAP

On a tight budget, you had four options: unsafe cars, unreliable cars, really boring cars or cars that combined all three characteristics.  In the past decade, though, it's become easier to find a tidy, safe, cheap used car, for several reasons.Firstly, used cars don't hold their value like they once did. New cars have become cheaper in real terms, and sales have boomed, so there's a lot more used cars on the market.Cars are also much safer than they used to be. Government legislation and independent crash test programmes like NCAP, (which publicises the results of its tests, much to the annoyance of the industry) have forced car makers to improve safety. A 2005 car, no matter what make it is, will be safer than a 1995 car. At the minimum, you want two front airbags and anti-lock (ABS) brakes.Unless it's French or Italian, in which case a weekly dummy spit is part of the "ownership experience," most cars from the last 10 years will be pretty reliable, as long as servicing has been done by the book.We are talking about ordinary, everyday cars here, that haven't been thrashed. If you're looking at some dude's slammed, chipped Subaru WRX and the price seems too good to be true, chances are it will self-destruct before you make it home. You pay your money and you take your chances.Immaculate, low kilometre cars owned by little old ladies do exist, and they are gold. So is a complete service record, especially if it's from the dealer who sold the car new.  Let's see if we can find a few to recommend. Bottom dollar in our search is $5000.There's not much joy at this money, but the last of the Mitsubishi Magnas, from 2004-2005, are great value and reasonably plentiful. Many will be ex-renters. That's not necessarily a bad thing, because serving will have been done to schedule. The 3.5-litre V6-four speed auto ES has four airbags and ABS.Another Mitsubishi, the Lancer, is the best small car we can find at this price. Toyota Corollas are fine too, though they're more expensive.  The Lancer's as sexy as a can of baked beans and completely bulletproof. Pay about $7000-$8000 or so for a 2005 model. Find one with optional ABS and six airbags.If you've got around $10,000 to spend, you have much more choice.  In 2004, Mazda made six airbags and ABS available across its entire range, as options or standard, so any Mazda2 or Mazda3 from 2004 on will be worth checking out. Mazda does blue chip quality, and if you find a good one, with a service book, buy it. You'll pick up a 2 for less than $10,000; a 3 will be $10,000-$12,000.If you need something bigger, this sort of money will also get you into a 2004-2005 Subaru Liberty, another top car from Japan's A league. All wheel drive, excellent handling and Subaru's class leading NCAP scores are pluses. The 2.0-litre four won't rip your arms off, but it will do the job. Wagons cost a little more.You might prefer a small SUV wagon instead, so look for a 2004-2005 Subaru Forester, or Toyota RAV4, at $12,000-$15,000.  If you need a big car for a big country, the Aussie six is hard to go past.You'll pay $10,000-$13,000 for the first of the VE Commodores from 2006. The 3.6-litre V6 sounds like 1000 leaf blowers on maximum thrust, however it's durable enough. Holden got serious about safety with VE, so you get stability control as standard.  It might take a while to find the right car, but in the end, it pays to be fussy. Second hand doesn't have to mean second best.WHERE TO BUY?DealerPros: On cars under 10 years old, most states require a warranty, typically 3 months or 5000 kilometres. You also get guaranteed title. Franchised dealers (ie those who also sell new cars) usually have the best selection of used cars; the trade-ins they don't want are unloaded to non franchised dealers or auctions.Cons: Can be more expensive than a similar car bought privately. Beware of non-franchised dealers selling flood damaged or rebirthed (ie cars written off by insurance companies but then repaired) from Queensland.PrivatePros: The best way to find a bargain.Cons: You have to do plenty of legwork, and finding the right car, in a place that's close to where you live, can be a time consuming process. There's no guarantee of title or provenance, and no comebacks if it drops its guts on the way home. Buyer beware.AuctionsPros: Ex-government or fleet cars, usually properly serviced, with low kilometres. Guaranteed title. Many dealers buy cars at auction, take them to their car yard, and jack the price up by thousands of dollars. Buy it yourself, and pocket the difference.Cons: You can't test drive the car before you bid. It's also easy for an amateur to pay too much, so go to a couple before you buy to get an idea of prices and how it all works.

The world is spoiled for family car choices. And now Subaru has landed another, with a six-seater wagon called the Liberty Exiga.  It's hard to pigeonhole the newcomer, because it sits outside the usual family-first range of showroom choices in the SUV and people mover classes. It's not a high-rider and it's not a full-on family van.A first glance it looks like a lightly-tweaked Liberty wagon, which it is. But it has six seats and that makes it more like Subaru's heavyweight people mover, the Tribeca.Subaru itself says the Exiga is a development of the Liberty and got the big green light following a successful tease at the Tokyo Motor Show a couple of years ago. It seemed people were interested in a Liberty with more, at least on the seating side.It is being rolled into action as an alternative to a Honda Odyssey or a Mitsubishi Grandis, or even the lacklustre Toyota Avensis, with lots of equipment and a starting price that is well under the Honda but not as sharp as the class-leading Kia Carnival.  It sounds good, but there is a catch. And it turns the Exiga into a bit of a Frankenstein.See, there is an all-new Liberty in Australian showrooms but the Exiga is based on the previous model. And there is some Forester stirred into the mix.  The result is a car which looks good on paper, but is not as good as it should be once you get it into the driveway.Subaru Australia is keen on the Exiga and has set it for the sort of families who have given its brand the best customer-loyalty scores in the country. There are two models and both come with an easy-driving 2.5-litre engine and constantly-variable transmission, as well as a crucial DVD entertainment system for the back seats.The Exiga Premium, which jumps the price from a basic $37,490 up to $41,990, is very well loaded with kiddie-friendly leather seats, satnav, a reversing camera, Bluetooth and iPod links, electric front seats and alloy wheels."Liberty Exiga is a versatile family wagon that adds a new dimension to our mid-size wagon line-up," says Nick Senior, boss of Subaru Australia.  Not surprisingly, he is also trumpeting Subaru's usual five-star ANCAP safety and all-wheel drive. DRIVING - with Paul Gover  I got a surprise when I first jumped into the Exiga.  I expected a car which would drive as impressively as the new Liberty, our Carsguide class leader and a solid Car of the Year contender for 2009, and the Exiga does not.  It is not as fluid, or quiet, or refined and the engine feels less responsive and far less impressive.I immediately got on the phone to ask about the car. And got the news from Subaru Australia that the Exiga is built from the previous-generation Liberty.  So a car that could have been very good is only . . . alright.That is harsh, but Subaru knows better than to fiddle with a successful formula and the expectations of Australians who know and trust the brand. It is good to have a six-seater in the family, and it's likely to be more suitable for more people than the larger Tribeca, but it is not good to have a car with compromises.You can see and feel the difference in the seats and quality of the cabin, as well as a CVT transmission that needs stirring - at least with tasty paddle shifters - and can struggle to keep the car at 110km/h on freeway inclines.But the Exiga is not all bad. It is very quiet, the middle-row seats are comfy and have plenty of adjustments, the cabin is easily converted for storing stuff, and the back-row seats are not nearly as bad as I expected.It is also very easy to park, with an excellent rear-view camera, and the leather seats and DVD player in the Premium test car are right on the money for families. I also like the flexibility in the centre console, which can carry more stuff or a couple of cups, as well as the light steering and the good visibility.It works well as a six-seater for people, but they will have to pack light because there is not much space in the tail. Fold the back seats _ one or the pair _ and things get a lot better, but it is never going to rival a Carnival.The Exiga gets marked down for its failings, and because it does not have the pulling power to win most people away from an SUV, but it will work very well for some families. And, at the end of the day, it's still a Subaru.SHE SAYS - with Alison WardI didn't know what to make of the Exiga at first. It didn’t dazzle me with a fast engine or amazing interior design.  So what is this car- an SUV or a people mover? I’m not sure myself, but I think it suffers an identity crisis.Don’t get me wrong, this car is good. It will serve owners well with its six-seat capacity, roomy interior and economical drive.  But body is a bit on the ugly side, reminding me of a gigantic windowed hearse, although inside is better.It’s comfortable and easy to drive.  It handles well, is easy to park and has minimal blind spots.  The entertainment system is the standard easy-to-use touch screen found in the latest Subarus.  So what could this car be good at? It’s all down to the extra third-row seat layout.This allows the Exiga to compete with chunkier SUVs while retaining that smaller car feel. But I cannot figure out why they couldn’t design the second-row seat to include an extra spot This will remain a mystery and a possible deal breaker for some families.  The Exiga will also frustrate families when all seats are taken because there isn’t much boot space left.  Not great for prams, shopping or hiding presents.On value, the leather, DVD player and loads of safety air-bags for less than its rivals makes it worth a look and I hope the Exiga survives.   It’s a ‘bums up’ from me but not sure if it will be for larger families.Score 70/100THE BOTTOM LINE: Good idea, not-so good resultSubaru Exiga 2.5i PremiumPrice: $41,990Engine: 2.5-litre four-cylinderPower:  123kW at 5000 revsTorque: 229Nm at 4000 revsTransmission: Lineartronic Continuous Variable Transmission, all-wheel driveBody: Five-door wagonSeats: SixDimensions:  Length 4740mm, Width 1775mm, Height 1660mm, Wheelbase 2750mm, tracks front/rear 1525mm/1530mmSteering: Speed sensitive rack and pinion power steeringSuspension: Front MacPherson struts; double wishbone rearFuel tank: 65 litresFuel type: Petrol 90-98 RONFuel Consumption: 8.6/100km combinedWeight: 1568kgSpare tyre: Space saver spareBrakes: Anti-skid all-round discsWheels: 17-inch alloysTyres: 215/50 R17Safety Gear: Dual front, side, curtain airbags, electronic stability control, traction control, anti-skid brakes, brake assist, front seatbelt pretensioners, reversing cameraCO2 Emissions: 202g/kmRIVALSDodge Journey 2.7 SXT: 68/100 (from $37,990)Kia Carnival 2.7 EXE: 76/100 (from $33,890)Mitsubishi Grandis 2.4 VRX: 77/100 (from $44,950)Toyota Tarago 2.4 GLi: 75/100 (from $53,250)

Subaru has put the finishing touches to its Liberty range with the arrival of the Exiga wagon.The family-friendly Exiga six-seater is much more than Subaru's traditional wagons — and while Subaru Australia is at pains to avoid the poison chalice description of people-mover it makes no apologies for the niche nature of the latest addition."Liberty Exiga is a versatile family wagon that adds a new dimension to our mid-size wagon line-up," Subaru Australia managing director Nick Senior says. "It means we have now got the Exiga for families needing the flexibility of a six-seat cabin, we have five-seat Liberty wagon and for those with a more recreational focus we've got the Outback range."Pricing and sales Sales targets for the new model, which starts at $37,490 and runs up to $41,990 for the Premium trim, are modest at between 50 and 75 a month, particularly given the value equation of the car which comes in at up to $7000 under the price of the equivalent Liberty wagon.Some of the price difference is in equipment level variance but much of it is down to the Exiga not sitting on the new generation Liberty platform but rather on a hybrid of the Liberty and Forester/Impreza underpinnings."With the same safety levels across all these vehicles (five stars) it comes down to a lifestyle choice," Senior says. "With the depth in our medium wagon range we can meet the needs of the vast majority of customers."Fit-out and equipment The six-seat layout is not exactly what Subaru Australia had hoped for when the initial planning of the Exiga was undertaken but with the lack of a centre rear lap-sash seat belt — and no engineering development planned to provide one — the seven-seat version available in the Japanese domestic market is not a starter for Australia.Without the extra seating capacity the Exiga does boast a roomy interior and executive feel to the cabin while Subaru Australia has not stinted on the trim levels. The base car comes with the company's Lineartronic CVT (constantly variable transmission), a DVD entertainment unit with two radio headsets (more are available as accessories) for the rear seat passengers, ABS, EBD, six airbags including curtain bags, stability control, dual zone air-conditioning, rake and reach adjustable steering, individual forward and aft adjustment on the centre-row seats, rear seat recline, 16-inch alloys, and DataDot security.The Premium model adds leather trim, 17-inch alloys, power front seat adjustment, Bluetooth enabled, satellite navigation and reversing camera.Driving The Exiga cabin, at least in the Premium model we have experienced, is a nice place to be. The seating is comfortable in the front, just as comfortable in the second row and adequate in the rear for a couple of adults short-term. Children or those of smaller stature would be very comfortable riding the third row for any length of time.While the luggage space when all the seats are deployed suffers similar shortcomings to most other six- and seven-seat models it is better than many in that it is quite useable for a jaunt to the beach, a shopping trip or some very lightly-packed travels.Fold the seats down using the 50:50 split of the third row and luggage concerns disappear. Utilise the 60:40 split of the second row and you could move house with the Exiga.Aesthetically the Exiga lacks the immediate charm of the Liberty. It is not unattractive but gives the clear impression of being the progeny of a Subaru that enjoyed a dalliance with a Honda Odyssey.Dynamically the Exiga loses little to the Liberty it shares a nameplate with. The overall impression is, not surprisingly given its genesis, a little softer and less focussed than the new Liberty range and the nature of a CVT can rob a car — any car — of the feeling of get-up-and-go with its seamless acceleration. You can always use the shift paddles set behind the steering wheel to pretend the gearbox has ratios.That doesn't make the Exiga sluggish — it isn't, and the proven 2.5-litre engine with its 123kW and 229Nm is a nice match to the car.Steering is light but pleasantly precise and the ride well suited to Sydney's broken road surfaces with plenty of compliance in the damping without any tendency to wallowing.Subaru claims a fuel economy of 8.6L/100km in combined cycle driving.Subaru Liberty Exiga Price: From $37,490Engine: 2.5L/4-cylinder Boxer; 123kW/229NmTransmission: CVT automaticEconomy: 8.6L/100km (combined cycle) 

When the first Subaru Liberty was launched 20 years ago it was the company's most ambitious model. It was a gamble on the mid-size segment that has paid off handsomely for Fuji Heavy Industries, which makes Subaru cars.With the arrival of fifth-generation Liberty, Fuji has also taken reasonably big gamble. The sedan and wagon have grown in size - most significantly in the cabin - gained a more conventional look, improved safety levels and some technical advances that have lifted economy.The wheelbase has grown 80mm in the sedan and 75mm in the Outback to provide more rear-seat leg and luggage space. The larger cabin also has more headroom and is significantly quieter with rear passengers benefiting most from the gains in space. Owners will appreciate the wider opening rear doors.In the sedan there is 476 litres of boot space, while the wagon gets 490 litres with the 60/40 rear seats upright and 1690 litres with the seats folded. The wagon's rear hatch has also been redesigned to be wider and lower to allow easier access to the boot.Depending on the model, weight has crept up between 17kg and 94kg, but new engines are more economical and kinder to the planet. Fuel consumption is improved in every Liberty, including 11.0 per cent in automatic Liberty GT and 9.7 per cent in automatic 2.5i models, in the combined cycle while emissions have also been cut.The Liberty also gets a five star crash rating, raising the safety bar by adding a driver's side knee airbag and engine cradle that is designed not only to isolate engine noise but absorb crash energy in a heavy front-on accident.Manual 2.5-litre Libertys now get an extra cog with six-speeds while automatic buyers, expected to be the bulk of Liberty sedan and wagon sales, gain a continuously variable transmission Subaru calls Lineartronic. The range-topper gets a 3.6-litre horizontally opposed six-cylinder "boxer" engine shared with the Tribeca, as well as a new five-speed automatic.A 2.0-litre turbodiesel arrives in the Outback in November. The 2.5i four-cylinder "boxer" engine and CVT, which is expected to account for about 75 per cent of sales, has a combined fuel economy figure of 8.4 litres for 100km, compared with 9.5 litres for the old car.The 2.5i develops less power but better torque across the rev range with 123kW at 5600 revs and 229Nm at 4000 revs on tap.Importantly Subaru has managed to hold price points, despite exchange rate pressures earlier this year. The entry-level Liberty 2.5i starts from $33,990 while the range-topping Liberty GT Premium is $52,990, $4500 less than the superseded GT spec.B. The Liberty 3.6R Premium is the same price as the superseded Liberty 3.0R Premium.New Liberty models gain electric parking brakes and the Premium versions add automatic headlights, rain sensing wipers, keyless access and push button start.New to the range is the 2.5i Sports, which gets the CVT transmission, sports front bumper and grille, Bilstein suspension, alloy pedals, 18-inch alloy wheels and Xenon headlights with washers. Models with satellite navigation also get a reversing camera and integrated Bluetooth microphone.Visually the Liberty sedan and wagon - as well as the Outback - get a more upright look that critics have suggested loses some of the sportiness of the old model.The oversized eyebrow headlights sweep up the mudguards and the anonymous styling of the rear on the sedan has been compared to the Toyota Camry.Some of the quirks have gone too. Subaru's signature frameless windows have been replaced by frames that Subaru says help cabin quietness and the rigidity of the doors. The Liberty and Outback now join the Impreza and Forester in reverting to conventional window frames.Inside the cabin is light and airy with quality switchgear. Subaru's quirky SI-Drive system with intelligent, sports and sports-plus modes, appears on the GT and 3.6R.In growing up the Liberty has become more mainstream but what has not changed is Subaru's reputation for reliabilty and quality.For many prospective buyers, as well as existing owners, the brand's solid reputation will be enough to keep them coming back.Driving The new Liberty is a giant leap forward in a lot of areas, including the cabin space, transmission and suspension.After the mild makeovers on its main rivals, the Honda Accord Euro and Mazda6, the major changes come as a very pleasant surprise and one which is even more surprising after the Japanese cutbacks through the global economic downturn.So the Liberty - and the high-rider Outback - is obviously a Very Big Deal for Subaru, particularly for the US. In the past it has struggled to make a breakthrough there, even with Paul Hogan trumpeting the Outback, which is why it went for the bigger body and the . . . polarising . . . design work.Some people like the way the new Liberty look cuts through traffic, but others say it is too brutal and not remotely subtle. I say it's up to you. But you cannot argue with the extra space inside, the cushy front buckets, the excellent size and shape of the rear bench, and the extra space in the tail end of the Liberty wagon.It feels a full size bigger than the previous Liberty and is much more likely to get on the shopping list against a Commodore Sportwagon.The interior design also reflects new thinking at Subaru, something I like, and steps it away from the Euro and 6.Equipment levels are good, including a trip computer and cruise control on the basic car, but there is no Bluetooth link for the mobile and the operation of the electronic parking brake is an annoying fiddle.Dynamically, I think Subaru has taken a big leap forward with the new Liberty. It shares a lot of its components with the smaller Impreza, but the suspension is extremely smooth and compliant, there is great steering feel, and the car has more than enough grip and poise for family work.The suspension is clearly ahead of 6 and Euro, and a rival to the better Europeans, with its ability to soak nasty undulations and acne such as expansion joints and stutter bumps. And it is quiet, too. Speed bumps kick the back end around a bit, but that is my only complaint.The 2.5 boxer four is not overly perky, but the new six-speed transmission flatters it and must be great with the turbocharged GT engine. It's a sorta-CVT design but has six `gears' and paddle shifters if you want to make your own decisions.The car is a bit dozy from a standing start unless you floor the throttle, but once you get rolling it moves nicely and the manual shift allows surprisingly fun driving on twisty roads.I have no reason to question the safety in the new Liberty, or the long-term quality, and Subaru seems to have responded to criticism of the uninspiring latest Impreza by making this car more luxurious and significantly better than the outgoing model. It's a huge change and one that deserves recognition and kudos.The mid-size class is a real mix in Australia, with the latest Ford Mondeo making a strong claim and Toyota bouncing back with an update on the Camry. And perhaps it's a mistake to try the latest Subaru as a wagon first, but it has usually been the best from the brand.For me, the Liberty is now the benchmark in its class. Forget the way it looks, take a drive, and you will be won.Rating: 82/100

Rival car companies covet the brand loyalty that Subaru has among its followers. When it comes to trade-in time, more than 70 per cent of owners stick with the Japanese brand. With this carpark of committed Subaru owners in mind, that the company has taken on-board customer feedback about how to make the latest-generation Liberty and Outback better.Bigger, safer and more economical Both all-wheel drive models have grown slightly in all dimensions with the 80mm longer wheelbase in the sedan and 75mm longer in the Outback contributing to more rear seat leg and headroom and luggage space. Despite being between 17kg and 94kg heavier than the old model, new engines are more economical than those they replace and kinder to the planet.Safety has also improved, with a new engine ‘cradle’ to not only help the car crumple better in an impact, but reduce noise and vibration.New technology, like a continuously variable transmission on 2.5i models and new six-speed manual transmission feature. Subaru has also dumped the Liberty GT wagon but added a new model, the 2.5i Sport. Subaru Australia managing director, Nick Senior, says the company also looked for greater styling differentiation between the Liberty and Outback too. "They look more distinct now," he says.Drivetrains Two new engines are available, a 2.5i four-cylinder and 3.6-litre six-cylinder, which replaces the 3.0-litre. A 2.0-litre turbo diesel arrives in the Outback in November. The 2.5i four-cylinder ‘boxer’ engine and CVT, which is expected to account for about 75 per cent of sales, has a combined fuel economy figure of 8.4 litres per 100km, compared to 9.5 for the old car. The 2.5i develops less power but more torque across the rev range than the old engine with 123kW at 5600 revs and 229Nm at 4000 revs on tap.The new 3.6-litre is the largest engine ever fitted to the Liberty range. The entry 2.5i and 2.5i Sports models get what Subaru calls its Lineartronic CVT. Also new on entry-level the 2.5i is a six-speed manual, shared with the turbocharged Liberty GT.All automatics, including Lineartronic CVT, have a sequential mode to suit driving style and road conditions as well as steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. The turbo GT and 3.6R get an improved five-speed automatic. Prices for some models have decrease by up to 7.8 per cent while others cost the same as the superseded variants.Variants and pricing Entry-level Liberty 2.5i starts from $33,990, with the CVT auto adding $2500 to the price. The range-topping Liberty GT Premium is $52,990, $4500 less than the superseded GT spec.B, while the new Liberty 3.6R Premium is the same price as the superseded Liberty 3.0R Premium.Appearance and equipment Visually, the car has a more upright look with a flowing headlight design that sweeps high up the mudguards. Apart from the gains in cabin room, access to the rear seats is easier via larger opening doors. Standard equipment includes seven airbags - including driver's knee airbag - electronic stability control, dual zone air conditioning, hill start assist, trip computer, cruise control, six-stacker in-dash CD stereo and 17-inch alloys on the 2.5i.The 2.5i Premium adds sunroof, leather, CVT automatic, electric driver's seat and rear air vents. The 2.5i Sports opens the standard package with the Lineartronic CVT , 18-inch alloys, Bilstein suspension, sports grille and bumper, alloy pedals and Xenon headlights with washers. Premium models add automatic headlights and wipers, McIntosh stereo systems, reversing camera, SI-Drive, satellite navigation, keyless access and push-button start.The McPherson strut-type front suspension is now mounted to the cradle to improve steering response, handling and overall rigidity. The rear suspension is a compact double-wishbone rear suspension, shared with the Forester. The Liberty has followed the new-generation Forester with framed windows, which add to structural strength of the doors. Using an electric parking brake instead of a traditional lever has freed up more space between the front seats.DrivingThe gods did not shine kindly on the Liberty drive. The heavens opened up with lashing rain and blustery winds, leading to muddy and slippery country roads. But inside the Liberty sedan, all was serene. Subaru's relish being let lose in such conditions and the Liberty proved it has ability and confidence in spades. All-wheel drive is almost second nature and when you throw electronic stability control and traction control into the mix the Liberty is the perfect wet weather partner.We spent most of the time behind the wheel of the 2.5i CVT automatic, which is expected to account for the bulk of sales. What is immediately noticeable is how much room the car has, both in the front and rear seats. The front seats have also been redesigned and are more comfortable and supportive. Only the low-rent look of the seat fabric in the 2.5i let the interior down.There are some neat touches, like the levers to fold down the rear seats in the wagon, reversing camera on satellite navigation equipped models and the paddle shifters on the steering wheel. Yes, other brands have them but the Liberty is more than a match for equipment up against key rivals like the Mazda6, Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. The 2.5-litre four is quiet — almost too quiet for those Subaru fans who love the throb of the boxer layout — and the steering has plenty of feedback and feel.Developing 123kW, the new engine has lost 4kW but torque is up 2Nm to 229Nm and it is delivered lower in the rev range. This translates into more linear acceleration. There is little to fault about the dynamics or engineering. The Liberty is a very secure car to punt both on bitumen and gravel roads. The ride is composed and the multi-link double wishbone rear suspension provides the car with a surefooted stance over corrugated roads.The CVT, which has some links with Audi, is new and like these seamless transmissions, is smooth and can be used as a sequential six-speed - with paddle shifters - if you want. Fortunately Subaru has also managed to inject some conventional auto feel into the CVT via some trick software and there is no hint of the "slipping clutch" feeling of some CVTs.Cabin quality is as good as the best out of Japan despite some hard plastics around the cabin. The faux woodwork on the upper models is clearly meant for more conservative North American tastes. Despite the styling and interior presentation catering more to its biggest export market, North America, the grown up Liberty has lost little of its inherent Subaru-ness. And that should please Liberty owners who would not drive anything else.Subaru Liberty sedan and wagon Price: from $33,990 (2.5i manual) to $51,990 (3.6R Premium)Power: 123kW at 5600 revs (2.5i), 195kW at 5600 revs (2.5 GT), 191kW at 5600 revs (3.6R)Torque: 229Nm at 4000 revs (2.5i), 350Nm at 2400 revs (2.5 GT), 350Nm at 4400 revs (3.6R)Transmission: Six speed manual, five speed automatic and CVT automatic Economy: 2.5i manual is 8.9 litres/100km (combined), 2.5i CVT 8.4 litres/100km (combined), 2.5i GT manual 9.8 litres/100km (combined), 2.5i GT auto 9.7 litres/100km (combined), 3.6 R auto 10.3 litres/100km (combined).Emissions CO2: 209 g/km (2.5i), 198 g/km (2.5i auto), 230 g/km, (GT man), 228 g/km (GT auto), 242 g/km (3.6R)

All-wheel drive is all about safety in all weather conditions on all road types, but almost as soon as those wonderful attributes were identified some rally tuner realised it also had enormous potential for rallying. It was about then that the all-wheel car went from a nice safe family car to a hotter-than-hell performance machine and we had some of the hottest special edition models, like the Subaru Liberty RS Turbo, appearing in our showrooms.At first it was a limited edition model available to rally competitors by way of special order, but such was the demand for it that Subaru released it for general consumption. Before the WRX with which the company is so closely identified, the RS Turbo was already attracting the attention of rally enthusiasts.MODEL WATCH Subaru was in a period of transition in the early 1990s. Apart from its all-wheel drive models Subaru was producing cars that were struggling to stand apart from the small Japanese crowd, but in a moment of marketing genius the company decided to become an all-wheel drive only company. It was a masterstroke, one from which the company hasn’t looked back.In late 1991 when the RS Liberty Turbo sedan was launched it looked much like its more mainstream cousin. If it wasn’t for the alloy wheels, sports rubber and modest rear wing you wouldn’t know you were looking at anything but a regular Liberty sedan. It’s not until you drove the RS Turbo that it became clear, instantly clear, that this wasn’t a family shopping trolley.If you dared bury the right foot in the carpet the RS Turbo’s blown 2.0-litre quad-cam flat four responded with nearly 50 per cent more power and almost 40 per cent more torque than the naturally aspirated 2.2-litre engine that lurked under the standard Liberty’s bonnet. Peak power was 147 kW at 6000 revs while the torque curve reached its maximum of 260 Nm at 3600 revs.To achieve the increased output Subaru beefed up the cylinder block, added four-coil ignition and added a liquid-cooled turbocharger and liquid/air intercooler. It then fed it through a five-speed manual gearbox and centre and rear differentials to all four wheels for a thrilling drive well beyond its modest looks suggest it’s capable of.Given its head the RS Turbo Liberty would run hard and fast. It was capable of reaching 100 km/h in seven seconds, the standing 400-metre sprint was dismissed in 15 seconds, and it would reach 215 km/h if pressed all the way in fifth gear. As you might expect with its rally credentials, the RS Turbo LIberty was a delight on the road. It handled fast and slow corners well, was very precise and could change direction easily. The ride, while firm, wasn’t uncomfortable and soaked up bumps and potholes without being upset.The brakes were perhaps an area for criticism. While discs were employed at all corners it lacked the added safety of ABS anti-skid electronics, which would definitely have been a bonus on a car of such high performance.Inside, the RS Turbo LIberty offered the full accommodation of a regular four-door with quite good headroom, good legroom and foot space, even for tall occupants. The cloth-trimmed seats were both supportive and comfortable, there was a footrest for the driver’s left foot and an adjustable steering column.Standard equipment included air-conditioning, power windows, mirrors and antenna, central locking, cruise, and there was an optional sunroof. The sound system was an AM/FM radio cassette with four speakers. A wagon version was released in 1992.IN THE SHOP The RS Liberty Turbo is at least 12 years old now, the last leaving dealerships in 1994, which means they will have racked up plenty of kays, some of which could well have been very hard ones. On average an early car will have done over 200,000 km, a later one around 170,000 km, but Subaru reliability is such that high kay cars can still be worth taking on.Some early cars had rattling valve lifters that were fixed on complaint by Subaru, but some might have slipped through the system and owners have to try and find a solution themselves.The body is fairly sturdy and stands the test of time well. Look for the usual car park dings, which are inevitable if the car has been driven daily.Many have been modified for more performance or handling so look carefully for mods and make sure they have been well done by professionals who know what they’re doing. Also make sure those modifications don’t adversely affect the things that matter to you.Fitting aftermarket springs and shocks, for instance, can make the ride hard and uncomfortable which diminishes its appeal as a family tourer. Look carefully for engine modifications, which might have boosted performance, but cut the reliability. Again seek expert help before buying a heavily modified car. Before you take on a car that has been modified check to ensure the modifications are legal rather than risk getting stuck with a car that doesn’t comply with the law.IN A CRASH Primary safety is the all-wheel drive RS Turbo Liberty’s great suit. Its handling in all conditions, boosted by its rally suspension is the perfect recipe for extracting yourself from a dicey situation. Airbags weren’t offered, but secondary safety comes down to its sturdy body construction.OWNERS SAY Dave Shephard has owned two RS Turbo wagons. The first was written off a few weeks after he bought it, but the second now has 260,000 km on it. When he bought them he was looking for a car with performance, but could still swallow his kite surfing gear. He says it’s a perfect compromise, a mix of power and performance with Subaru reliability.Oliver Lever says the RS Turbo Liberty is a fantastic car for the young enthusiast or the family. Like all cars, he says, they have their shortfalls, which in the case of the RS Turbo Liberty is the gearbox. He says there’s plenty of information on them, parts are readily available, and their modest looks means they don’t come in for regular attention from the police.Matthew Pyman has owned a 1991 RS Turbo for a year and says he has never been happier with any previous car. It is, he says, a dream to drive. He loves the handling, the rumble of the boxer engine, and the overall thrill of the drive.Jarrod Power has owned his RS Turbo Liberty for three years. The great thing about them, he says, is that while they are quite attractive, and can be improved upon easily by lowering them and fitting a set of alloy wheels, they don't attract the attention of the police, which allows you to enjoy the driving experience. The RS Turbo Liberty gets tick in every box with its looks, performance and cost.LOOK FOR • Rattling valve lifters• Illegal modifications• Great all-wheel drive handling• Roomy interior for family• Combination of performance and practicality• Good build qualityTHE BOTTOM LINE Its all-wheel drive safety makes it a great learning car for young drivers to gain experience.RATING 75/100

Yes, there is a chunky new body, but otherwise the Japanese niche maker has ticked all the expected boxes: a revised four-cylinder boxer turbo, a re-hashed symmetrical all-wheel drive system, and re-designed double-wishbone rear suspension as part of a mechanical package which allows a roomier cabin inside a bigger body.SafetyIt will almost certainly get the maximum five-star safety rating from ANCAP, although there was no need to test its crash performance during a first drive of the B4 2.5 Liberty GT in Japan last week.BodyAt my exclusive drive in the mountains of Subaru's Tochigi proving ground my first impression was the car's 'street presence.' The new Liberty looks bigger and taller all-round with substantial modifications in the sheetmetal.It is over 100mm longer, 50mm wider, 80mm higher and the wheelbase has stretched by 80mm as well, although kerb weight has only risen by 20kg. All that translates into oodles more head and legroom.EngineThe Liberty B4 has a fully-rebuilt 2.5-litre turbocharged boxer engine now making 210kW, up from 191, with torque in the five-speed auto up to 350Nm.Of special note is the redesigned turbo which now sits low down at the front of the engine bay just behind the number plate and a lot closer to the exhaust manifold, a modification that beefs up response while reducing turbo lag.Equipment The optional McIntosh sound system, arguably the best in-car sound system in the world, now plays DVDs and has a 40 gigabyte hard drive capable of storing 2000 songs and a 5.1-channel surround system. Other new stuff includes a 'Lineartronic' constantly-variable transmission, knee airbags, rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlamps, push-button starting and a reversing camera with factory satnav.DrivingThe new turbo engine strutted its stuff and demanded me to drive harder on Subaru's tight winding course, and the car felt more planted than any earlier Liberty.Power delivery is linear and strong with maximum torque coming on tap as low as 2000 revs and staying on the boil to 5500rpm. With almost no noticeable turbo lag, the Legacy's sequential five-speed auto gearbox devours gear shifts with the flick of its polished aluminium paddle-shifters and almost no shift shock. A re-tuned blipping control on the downshifts also delivers seamless entry into corners allowing me to focus more on smoother braking and turn-in. A six-speed manual will also be available.The newly fitted double wishbones do wonders for the suspension, and Subaru rates them as a priority change. The latest electronically-assisted power steering delivers a clear message and the chunky nose tucks in nicely while the rear end stays low and flat, generating more grip than ever before. These new wishbones counteract unwanted camber fluctuations while producing prodigious levels of grip. That equals quicker, more stable cornering.Surprisingly, ride quality has also improved, especially for rear-seat passengers.For more detailed information, see your newspaper’s Carsguide section or check back here later this week.

There wasn’t much hoopla surrounding the launch of the second generation Subaru Liberty in 1994. The previous model was safe and solid without being particularly exciting, and there was no reason to believe the new one would be anything but a competent follow-up with the same attributes. It was all of that, but it was also much better, and cheaper to boot. By the time the year ended the Liberty was widely regarded as the best new car of the year.By the mid-1990s Subaru was facing extinction. Its cars were sound, but it was a minnow in the car making world and really didn’t have the wherewithal to survive in a highly competitive industry that thrived on volume.A switch to all-wheel drive exclusively across all models in the mid-1990s, the runaway popularity of the hot rally-bred WRX, and an alliance with General Motors which will see an evolution of the Subaru all-wheel drive system under the Commodore later this year, kept the bankers at bay and the company thriving.MODEL WATCHThe second generation (2GEN) Liberty was new from the floorpan up. The chassis and floorpan were refined and improved, but essentially they were carried over from the previous model. The major changes to the underpinnings came from the increased wheelbase, which was 50 mm longer than the first generation model.While the LIberty was attractive it wasn’t leading edge in styling terms, but that was what helped make it appealing to so many. It was inoffensive to everyone, while at the same time it looked sturdy and reliable.The front-wheel drive LX opened the eight-model range which was topped by the all-wheel drive Heritage 4WD. Available body styles were a sedan and wagon.The added 50 mm of wheelbase was put to good use with all of the stretch going to increase the rear seat room, which was generous to say the least. There was also a benefit for front seat occupants as Subaru fitted longer front seat runners that allowed the driver and front seat passenger to slide the front seats back further. That way it was possible for taller occupants to find a comfortable seating position.Loads of space in the rear of the wagon, and a large boot in the sedan added to the Liberty’s attraction as a family car.The stiffer body contributed to the Liberty’s praised ride and handling, which was enhanced by a package of well tuned springs and shocks for improved wheel control. Along with well weighted, precise power steering, the chassis package had road testers putting the Liberty near the top of its class.An unusual exhaust note signalled that the Liberty had something different under the bonnet. On inspection you found it was a flat-four mounted at the front.With a capacity of 2.2 litres the ‘boxer’ four produced 94 kW at 5200 revs and 190 Nm at 4400 revs, giving it quite reasonable performance. Performance was improved in 1996 when a larger 2.5-litre version of the flat-four became available.Liberty buyers could choose between a five-speed manual gearbox and a four-speed auto, both of which were highly rated, and there was the choice of all-wheel drive.The LX was equipped with standard air-conditioning, body coloured bumpers, power door mirrors, power steering and radio/cassette sound. Airbags and ABS were optional. The mid-range GX also had alloy wheels, central locking, cruise control, power antenna and power windows. The range-topping Heritage was only available with the auto trans, but also had standard ABS, dual airbags, CD player, remote central/keyless locking, leather trim and woodgrain. The sporty Rallye came with a body kit and fog lamps.IN THE SHOPSubaru build quality is rated highly, with tight body construction and even body gaps, so they develop few squeaks and rattles in service.Owners and mechanics alike report few problems with Subarus in general, and the Liberty in particular, with most visits to the workshops being for regular scheduled service.Tyre life is generally good, with owners reporting up to 75,000 km before tyres need to be replaced. Likewise brake life is reported as good.Engines, transmissions and drive lines are all regarded as robust and reliable with few problems reported from the trade.While the 4WD system is highly respected for its safe handling it should be understood that it is an added complication that can lead to greater repair costs if something does go wrong. Before rushing in and buying a 4WD think about your reasons for buying it.A 4WD system will be a safer proposition in everyday driving, giving better grip and handling on slippery surfaces, it may well get you out of a dangerous system that a normal two-wheel drive system won’t. But don’t buy it expecting to be able to go off road, because that’s not what the Liberty is all about. Use the 4WD system for added on-road security, but don’t be tempted to go bouncing down rough bush tracks.OWNERS SAYPete Minahan has done 60,000 km in the ’96 Liberty Wagon he bought in 2001, bringing it to 150,000 km in total, and he’s very happy with it. He praises its road manners, ride, and handling, and likes the all-wheel drive, but criticises its road noise and inadequate adjustment of the driver’s seat. He’s had to do nothing except the scheduled servicing.Mitch Miller bought a manual Liberty GX in 1998 and says he hasn’t looked back. He reports that he regularly gets 8.1 L/100 km/h on country trips, with a low of 7.7 when using PULP.Graham Stewart has had his 1995 Liberty one year and he’s very pleased with it. Now with got 270,000 km on the clock he says it’s quiet and smooth with plenty of pickup when needed.Ron Co has owned a ’96 Liberty GX auto wagon since new. It’s only done 75,000 km, and apart from regular servicing there has only been a couple of minor problems with the windscreen washers and the air-conditioning. He praises its AWD and says he experienced its value when he was forced off the road while overtaking a truck. “All four wheels were off the road, but we drove through it and back on to the road without a drama. It really hit me just how lucky we were to have been in the AWD Sub and not a 2WD of any sort.”Merve McKnight’s ’98 LIberty RX came after a series of Nissan Patrols. He says he grins every time he drives it, and has travelled far and wide in the 114,000 km he’s done in it. He runs mostly on regular ULP because it’s cheaper, but says it’s more responsive on PULP. Merve describes his Liberty as an orgasm on wheels.LOOK FOR• safe handling from all-wheel drive models• solid body construction stands up well in service• good build quality• ‘flat’ exhaust note from flat four• roomy interior