Subaru’s application to the three Rs, the Liberty 3.0Rs that is, has propelled it to the head of the 2005 class.
The principal players in the prestige market this year, all Japanese brands, are a diverse lot.
Mazda6 MPS is sporty, Honda Accord V6 tilts towards comfort and the winning Subaru Liberty 3.0R walks a fine line between opulence and driveability.
The foundation for Liberty’s first placing is found in design and function, where it gains top marks in such areas as safety, comfort and build quality.
Strong showings in security and ergonomics enhance its credentials, and there is a decent amount of interior and boot room.
It is a mixed bag on value for R this year, with a rosier outlook on depreciation costs but a dip in fuel economy scores. Subaru also cut parts prices.
The R’s 3.0-litre boxer engine is a vigorous performer backed by a smooth transmission.
The Liberty is a free spirit with handling. It has communicative steering plus plenty of all-wheel-drive grip and balance. Its ride, brakes and smoothness surpass the class standard.
The manual only Mazda MPS, an all-wheel-drive, turbo-charged version of the Mazda6 sedan, makes waves in the class.
Full Details: www.australiasbestcars.com.au.
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