Good but thirsty performance

The Japanese car manufacturer’s all-wheel-drive system gives its vehicles positive, sure-footed handling. These attributes are all embodied in the 2016 Liberty – the mid-size sedan that seems to be ageing well.

Wrapped in a safety package that was ahead of the pack when new, the 2016 Liberty – now at half its brand-new price – is even better value on the used-car market. Subaru servicing costs are generally high, and the 100,000km service can be expensive. If you’re considering this model, try to find one that’s had the service completed, or you’ll get a nasty post-purchase bill. The 2.5-litre engine delivers good performance but is a bit thirsty on fuel, which will add to your ongoing costs.

A safe option

Industry-leading safety technology is in Subaru’s DNA. Besides the standard autonomous emergency braking, the 2016 Liberty 2.5i Premium came with a vision assist system. This has blind-spot monitoring, lane change assist, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, high-beam assist, and rear cross-traffic alert, which detects passing vehicles when reversing from parking spaces. It was quite the package in its day. The Liberty is spacious for a mid-sized vehicle and with folding rear seats, it’s particularly functional. The infotainment system can be finicky to use, so try to make sure it works properly as these repairs can be expensive. The same goes for the navigation system.

What’s it like on the road?

The 2.5-litre flat four, boxer engine has ample power, delivered to all wheels via a CVT that gives six artificial gear shift points with selectable sports or intelligent modes. The Liberty is comfortable to drive in the city and if you take it on winding roads, it handles a little like a sports car. However, unlike sports cars, it has a good ride across most road types. This innate dynamic balance will help less experienced drivers cope with changing road conditions, especially out on SA’s regional roads.

The bottom line

Although SUVs are the used-car buyer’s sweethearts right now, a mid-size sedan like the Subaru Liberty is still a spacious and useful vehicle at an affordable price during these high cost-of-living times.