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Subaru Liberty 3.6X (2013)
by Barry Green,reviewed August 2013
Subaru has added a little ‘X factor’ to its Liberty range–2.5X and 3.6X variants which are available only in sedan body shape and with five-speed auto.
Both feature an additional 50mm of ground clearance (making a total of 200mm), Subaru’s innovative EyeSight™ driver assist system, new design grille and front bumper, sporty sills with chrome-type highlights and a new 18-inch alloy wheel pattern.
The extra ground clearance plus Subaru’s accomplished symmetrical all-wheel-drive gives the X useful off and rough road capability; Subaru in effect creating a medium-sized sedan alternative to the ubiquitous SUV.
Interior detail changes include brushed gun-metal grey centre panel, centre console and steering switch panel, while the electronic park brake and
SI-Drive switches have been relocated for easier use. The aforementioned
SI-Drive on the 3.6X offers three different modes to suit driver preferences.
Styling-wise, Liberty won’t win any beauty competition, but instead it rewards the driver and occupants with good ride quality, more than adequate performance, able handling, impressive grip/traction levels, generous interior and cargo space and a comprehensive standard equipment inventory (see adjacent stats' panel).
A full-sized spare wheel is one of the few boxes left unticked.
For
Safety technology, versatility for a sedan
Against
Temporary use spare wheel only, so-so styling
Key features
Dual-zone climate-control, 18-inch alloys, HID headlights, sports side sills, leather trim, sat-nav, sunroof, smart key/push button start, powered and heated front seats (driver’s has memory), McIntosh audio system, auto lights and wipers, bluetooth
Safety
Dual front/front side/curtain and driver’s knee airbags, electronic stability/traction control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist, hill hold, EyeSight™ technology, reversing camera
Car Details
| Vehicle make |
Subaru |
| Vehicle model |
Liberty 3.6X |
| Vehicle type |
Medium Over $50,000 |
| Year |
2013 |
| Price when new |
$55,590 MLP |
| Current price range |
$ - $
|
| ANCAP crash rating |
|
| Insurance |
Get a quote for car insurance |
| Technical advice |
For more information about your prospective purchase, contact our Motoring Advice Service. |
| Engine |
3.6-litre, Boxer, 6-cyl |
| Max power |
191kW @ 5600rpm |
| Max torque |
350Nm @ 4400rpm |
| Acceleration to 100 km/h |
7.3 sec (3.6R Premium) |
| Economy ADR |
10.3 litres/100km |
| Emissions rating |
|
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This review is based on road testing conducted by The Road Ahead. Further vehicle reviews, in-depth comparisons and coverage of consumer motoring issues can be found in the Club's magazine. Prices listed were current at the time of review and are manufacturers list prices and do not include statutory and delivery charges. Prices can vary from time to time and dealer to dealer.