Subaru Reviews

With the loudest cooee coming from the bush, Subaru has answered the call by adding a diesel automatic to its model year 2015 Forester range, as well as chopping prices by up to $3500, the latter on top of the $1000 trim announced at the beginning of this year.At the launch of the realigned range, Subaru Australia managing director Nick Senior, said: "We know through our dealer network there is significant pent-up demand for Forester auto diesels, not least in regional and rural areas, where the benefits of fuel efficiency in long-range driving really come to the fore."Mr Senior said the addition of the continuously variable automatic transmission was a huge boost to the range and he predicted sales of around 200 Forester 2.0D automatics per month.For 2015, improvements have been made to the Forester's horizontally opposed turbocharged 2.0-litre diesel boosting power output to 108kW at 3600 rpm and 350Nm of torque between 1600 and 2400 revs.It complies with strict Euro 6 exhaust emission standards, fuel efficiency is improved and vibration reduced. The high torque is taken care of with the Subaru Lineartronic CVT featuring a step-shifting control method linked to engine speed.The system switches between continuously variable operation to step shifting. With the transmission in D mode, if the accelerator is depressed by more than 65 per cent, a seven-speed step shift activates. If the movement is less than 65 per cent, stepless CVT operates.Unlike many of its rivals such as the Mazda CX-5, Toyota RAV4 and Kia Sportage, that have gone in for a slick profile, the MY15 Forester errs on the side of tradition, leaning more to the original squared off wagon shape.The fuel efficiency display is now designed to make occupants more aware of economical drivingInside, it's a different matter. Across the range there has been a lift in attention to detail, with particular reference to the most used components such as centre panel and steering wheel controls, and air vent grilles.Silver and contrasting piano black surrounds make for a sumptuous yet striking appearance, while the instrument panel combines upgraded audio display and, in the upper-spec models, factory-fitted satellite navigation in the central dashboard.The multifunction display incorporates both digital and analogue clock, while the fuel efficiency display is now designed to make occupants more aware of economical driving.Depending on model, infotainment is boosted by more intuitive functions for media playback, including Pandora connectivity, and information access, with smartphone-style 7-inch touchscreen incorporating flick, pinch and double-tap functions, list selections using steering wheel switches, plus voice recognition.The entry-level Forester 2.0D-L packs all the features of its petrol-powered counterpart, adding 17-inch alloy wheels. The top-of-the-range 2.0D-S adds automatic cargo door, electric sunroof, leather upholstery with heated eight-way powered front seats, and door mirrors, Xenon low-beam dusk-sensing headlamps with pop-up washers, sat nav and 18-inch alloys, and full-size spare wheel.Safety is five-star with dual front and side airbags, full-length curtain airbags and similar knee protection for the driver. ABS anti-skid brakes are augmented by electronic brake force distribution and brake assist. Vehicle dynamic control includes traction control and reversing camera keeps an eye on closely positioned obstacles.According to the manufacturer, Subaru's innovative EyeSight driver assist system is in the process of being calibrated for use in Forester diesels in Australia.The Lineartronic CVT remained unhurried and quiet at all timesOn an extensive drive programme in country Tasmania, the entry-level 2.0D-L CVT and top-specced 2.0D-S CVT, the pair proved worthy examples of the advantages of combining automatic transmissions with diesel engines. This included frugal fuel consumption of 7.6L/100km and 7.9L/100km respectively.Whether in continuous mode or stepping through its seven ratios the Lineartronic CVT remained unhurried and quiet at all times, the Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive adding handling stability in even the sharpest of manoeuvres.The Forester's suspension was particularly impressive, ironing out the wrinkles on stretches of dirt road many other SUV's would have baulked at.

The decision to go all all-wheel-drive was a momentous one for Subaru. From a company building cars that no one really cared about it went to one that everyone wanted to know.If the hot rally-bred WRX led the charge it was the Liberty that did the hard yards in getting Subaru's name on the shopping lists of Australian buyers.The Gen 3 was a mid-sized model aimed at middle Australia. It was a family-sized car for people tired of the regular diet of Commodores and Falcons.It was a pleasant looking, sensible car, one that has stood the test of time and still looks attractive even today.The Liberty came in sedan and wagon forms, with three main specification levels in the GX, RX, and Heritage.Inside there was room enough for a normal family, mum and dad had plenty of room up front, and the kids were comfortably accommodated in the back.The Liberty came in sedan and wagon forms, with three main specification levels in the GX, RX, and Heritage.Two engines were offered, both flat-fours in the style Subaru had long used.A modest 2.0-litre single-overhead camshaft engine opened the bidding with 92kW and 184Nm. It was no ball of fire, but with an average fuel consumption of less than 9.0L/100km there was a lot to like about it.The other engine option was a single-overhead camshaft 2.5-litre unit that boasted 115kW and 223Nm, The extra torque not only boosted the Liberty's performance, but it also endowed it with an easy-driving flexibility. Fuel consumption increased, but was still only a touch over 9.0L/100 km.The transmission choices were straightforward, a five-speed manual and a no-fuss four-speed automatic, and the drive went through all four wheels.On the road the Liberty was well balanced with a reassuring grip on the road.It needs to be said straight up that the Gen 3 Liberty is getting on in years, the earliest 15 years old, and the kays are climbing, with many cars well over the 200,000km mark by now.Be choosy; don't buy any old Liberty you come acrossThat means they should be approached with caution, and patience needs to be employed when out shopping for a suitable car.Be choosy; don't buy any old Liberty you come across, look for the one in the best condition, with the lowest kays on the clock, and with a believable history.Having done 200,000-plus kays you have to understand that a car, any car, is nearer the end of the road than the starting grid, so buy in the knowledge that you are likely to be back in the market looking for another car in a couple of years.But that can be fine for some people, like parents shopping for a starter car for their kids who are hitting the road for the first time.For them the most important attributes are safety, low running costs, and reliability, and their kids are likely to be wanting to move on up in the motoring world in a short period of time.Being all-wheel drive the Liberty is miles ahead of other cars liked by youngsters, cars like the Commodore and Falcon, when it comes to safety. In the hands of a novice driver rear-wheel drive Commodores and Falcons can be lethal weapons, whereas the all-wheel drive Liberty is much less likely to bite them when they least expect it.Check for a service record to make sure your chosen car has been well maintainedLook for smoke issuing from the exhaust pipe when accelerating, it could signal wear in the engine and should be a warning.With more than 200,000km up most Gen 3 Liberties could do with an automatic transmission service, so consider doing that for ongoing reliability, even if the transmission checks out ok when driven.Check for a service record to make sure your chosen car has been well maintained, but the service record is a good way of confirming the odometer reading is credible.A service record will also be able to confirm that the timing belts have been changed as required at 160,000 km.

Craig Duff road tests and reviews the Subaru Forester at its Australian launch.

Chris Riley road tests and reviews the 2015 Subaru BRZ and answers the big questions.

Full-of-fruit Forester maintains the brand's staple qualities but the opposition is catching up. Two years ago I was quite taken by the new Subaru Forester. The chunky midwest American styling grated and the cabin quality was down a bit from what I expected. However, it drove well, had more space and the price was

When the Forester was introduced to Australia in 1997 it was closely related to the Subaru Impreza hatch. It also reminded Subaru lovers of the Subaru 4WD station wagons. Over the years the Forester morphed into a medium SUV in styling.However, even as it entered the crossover era the Forester still had useful ground clearance so can tackle tougher than average conditions in the bush and on the beach.Forester's suspension has longer travel than the Impreza, and more rugged specs with semi-off-road tyres. The latter may have been replaced by normal car tyres at some time during the Forester's life, so check for this if you're considering doing some mild to medium off-road driving.Early model Subaru Foresters, have relatively long overhangs front and rear, a legacy of being adapted from a car.Handling is reasonable for a vehicle in this class, but keep in mind the Forester is a crossover SUV, not a sports machineGood interior room is a real advantage of the squared-off styling. The front seats have plenty of legroom, width and headroom. The rear seat can take three people without too much of a hassle, though it's better if they are children, rather than adults.Entry and exit to the back seat is easy, partly because of the taller than average styling but chiefly because you don't have to climb up into the seats as you do in an off-road 4WD.There's a good luggage area and practicality is further improved by the Forester having numerous storage areas throughout the vehicle.Handling is reasonable for a vehicle in this class, but keep in mind the Forester is a crossover SUV, not a sports machine, so don't hammer it too hard at bends. However, see the notes on the Forester GT (later tagged as the Forester XT).Subaru Forester first reached Australia in August 1997 and was joined by the Forester GT in September 1998. The latter is a fun little hotshot powered by a slightly detuned Subaru WRX engine.Forester GT was renamed Forester XT in the second-generation model in an attempt to fool the insurance companies into thinking it's not a GT. The Forester GT and XT are performance off-roaders, though certainly not to the same extent as the WRX.August 2003 saw the introduction of the second-generation Subaru Forester. It features a bit more style than the original series, particularly around the multi-faceted tail but, yet again, function takes preference over fashion. The latest version arrived here in 2008 and moved further towards an SUV shape in style.Power for the standard Forester models comes from a 2.0-litre flat-four motor. Upmarket variants received a 2.5-litre motor from 2002 and that larger capacity was continued into all Foresters since then, with improvements in consumption and emissions introduced in several stages.The extra capacity of the 2.5 goes into generating more torque rather than going for pure power - very much in the conservative way of thinking that's so appealing to many Australian drivers.Manual gearboxes are mated to a two-speed transfer case, but the automatic versions only have a single-range. Subaru considers the torque multiplication through the converter largely replaces the need for a low ratio on the auto.Servicing and spare parts are generally reasonably priced though we have heard a few complaints about high prices on some less common parts.Insurance premiums are generally moderate for the standard Foresters, but check on prices on the GT and XT, particularly if you're classed as a young or inexperienced driver; insurance costs could break your bank account.Be wary of a Forester GT or XT that has too much turbo whine or excessive turbo lagA good amateur mechanic should have no trouble doing most jobs. It's always wise to have a workshop manual at your elbow before beginning work. Please leave the safety-related items to experts.Older engines often have that typical flat-four 'dak-dak' beat when they get a lot of kilometres on them. If it seems too bad the engine may be approaching overhaul time. Newer ones are more refined, but it's still wise to have them checked out.Be wary of a Forester GT or XT that has too much turbo whine or excessive turbo lag.On a turbocharged model, check the clutch isn't slipping - this usually shows up on fast upchanges. Subaru makes the clutch a sacrificial component so that it fails first to protect other transmission parts.Check underneath in case the Forester has been seriously used in off-road conditions. The front and rear bumper corners and their mountings are likely to be the first areas to suffer.Scrutinise the door sills, the protection plates under mechanical components and the lower parts of the underbody for signs of damage.Hot versions of standard Subarus seem to lead a harder life than the their equivalent from other makersLook at the condition of the seats, carpets and boot in case the Forester has been knocked about, particularly in off-road use.Lots of sand in the carpet may mean it's spent time on the beach. If you suspect this, taste for salt in the areas under the car.Look over the complete body for signs of crash repairs. The easiest to spot are generally poorly matching paint colours and slight ripples in the panels.

Murray Hubbard road tests and reviews the Subaru Liberty with specs, fuel consumption and verdict.

Call it desperation, or shrewd opportunism. Either way, Subaru Australia's decision to slash prices on 2015 Liberty and Outback by up to 25 per cent should give its mid-size sedan and SUV spin-off a healthy rev up in showrooms.Philanthropy doesn't come naturally to car companies, of course. Liberty and Outback were class frontrunners a decade ago, with combined sales of nearly 14,500 units in 2006. At the end of November last year, the tally was 3173 units.Both are ageing nameplates verging on atrophied with all the design flair of a fridge that has fallen off the back of a truck. The Liberty no longer possesses that critical desire factor either, for anybody but a few old blokes looking for a suitably somnolent conveyance to get them to God's waiting room in one piece.Subaru Australia boss Nick Senior's decision to reach for the sharp pencil on 2015 Liberty and Outback follows a similar strategy on the WRX STi hot rod, introduced at the beginning of last year with discounts of up to $11,000.It had the desired effect. WRX STi sales took off and ended the year more than 330 per cent up on 2013.Senior's "Have I got a deal for you!" pitch has been assisted by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's policy of stimulating exports by anaesthetising the yen. Unlike its hometown rivals, most of which now make more cars abroad than in domestic factories, 80 per cent of Subaru's total production still comes out of Japan, so the revised Australian dollar-yen exchange rate works for Subaru Australia and its Fuji Heavy Industries parent.Senior has also pre-empted the elimination of the 5 per cent import tariff on imported vehicles when the Japan-Australia free trade agreement takes effect on January 15. Beyond these factors, though, it's the discrepancy between actual showroom transaction bottom lines and fanciful manufacturer's list prices in the ultra-competitive Australian market that has prompted the deep discounts. Holden did the same with the VF Commodore in 2013, dropping prices by up to $9800 because dealers were doing it anyway. The days of car companies introducing new models with take-it-or-leave-it price hikes are over.Liberty, now in its 25th year, faces the greatest challenge. Australian buyers are bailing out of sedans en masse, moving into larger SUVs if kids are part of the buying decision or downsizing to a hatch or small SUV if they're not. The exception is Mercedes' all-conquering C Class, which won every car award worth winning last year and outsells every other mid-size sedan bar the Toyota Camry.Prices for the 2015 Liberty start at $29,990 for the 2.5-litre four cylinder petrol/continuously variable transmission (CVT) base model, $3000 less than its 2014 equivalent. The 2.5i CVT Premium, which includes leather, sunroof and navigation, is $35,490 (a $4000 discount). The 3.6-litre six-cylinder petrol/CVT Liberty 3.6R is $41,990, a $14,000, or 25 per cent, haircut on the 2013 model's $55,990 sticker price.Senior sees an opportunity to cash in on Commodore's demise with the 3.6R. While we no longer buy enough family-sized six cylinder cars to keep making them in Australia, Commodore is still doing 30,000 or so units a year. Come 2017, when it disappears, Senior believes many of those customers will be looking for an alternative sixpack.The previous Liberty's major shortcoming - sheet metal styled by the House of Dork - has been addressed in the 2015 car, which has a lower profile, coupe-ish roofline and arch-filling 18-inch alloys. The word 'want' still doesn't spring to mind when it drives by, though.The previous model took Liberty close to large car territory; this one is longer again in the cabin, with the front pillar pushed forward by 50mm. There's generous back seat legroom, though the lower roofline has compromised headroom a little, and boot space is reasonable.Liberty's spacious, formal interior features an easy to use touch screen multimedia system, a luxurious, super-sized (read: American market) driver's seat and Subaru's signature precision fit and finish.Like its predecessors the 2015 Liberty comes with a blue-chip safety CV, including Isofix child restraint anchors, seven airbags, a reversing camera and Subaru's Eyesight system as standard. Eyesight uses cameras and radar to read the road and the traffic. It now incorporates a vehicle in front brake light alert function, plus automatic emergency braking from 50km/h or less, lane departure warning and adaptive (or conventional) cruise control.Drivetrains are basically unchanged, save for fuel efficiency gains of up to 10 per cent, derived from improved aerodynamics and automatic stop-start on the 2.5-litre variants.So the on-road Liberty experience is familiar. The 2.5's modest numbers and narrow powerband are flattered by the smooth, responsive CVT transmission, engine and road noise levels are low and the car is balanced, intuitive and easy to drive. Its all-wheel drive point of difference helps Liberty maintain its position as one of the best handlers in the class. The 3.6R also has that lovely linear power delivery and top-end kick you miss out on with turbocharged engines. Complaints? The steering's accurate but far from tactile while the ride's a touch fussy and sharpish on rough roads.Twenty years after its introduction, Outback remains the SUV you should consider if you hate SUVs. You'll find its light weight, fine balance, disciplined body control and outstanding road-holding a much more satisfying, enjoyable combination than the sloppy, barge-like histrionics you have to put up with in most rival wagons. It runs taller, more absorbent tyres than Liberty, so the ride is more comfortable, too, on any surface.Subaru has increased body rigidity and tightened up the suspension on the 2015 model, to excellent effect. A back-to-back test drive with the benchmark Audi Q5 will give you an idea of how far the Outback has progressed as a drive. It's a long way.Outback is the sole wagon in the 2015 line-up. Liberty-badged freighters are no longer offered.Prices start at $35,990 for the 2.5i CVT, a $3000 drop from 2014. Base Outback is now the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel/six-speed manual 2.0D, at $35,490 (down $5000); CVT adds $2000 to the diesel and Premium specification adds $6000. Top of the range Outback 3.6R is $47,990, a $10,000 discount on the 2014 price.Petrol drivetrains are as per Liberty. The Outback's 2.0-litre turbodiesel, however, is a strange device that suffers from a lack of low down pulling power which is particularly apparent in the manual. As with the 2.5i petrol, the CVT almost disguises this deficiency, but you still need to be more vigorous with the go pedal than in other diesels and overall performance is sedate. However, the Subaru boxer engine is smooth, quiet and frugal.Eyesight is still being calibrated into the diesel drivetrain, so it's not yet available. Outback specification levels are close to Liberty equivalents; specific 2015 wagon improvements include wider opening doors for easier access, roof rails that can carry up to 80kg, and a power-operated tailgate on Premium variants.Outback inherits Forester's X-Mode system, an effective push-button substitute for low-range gearing that adjusts the traction control and enables it to crawl down, or up, a steep slope and traverse rough or slippery terrain with ease. In concert with 213mm of ground clearance, X-Mode gives the Outback genuine - if far from extreme - ability off the bitumen.

Car interiors rarely feature in large print when new models are launched. Body shapes, engine sizes, new gearboxes, ride and handling tend to steal the limelight. That is of course unless the old model copped a bit of flak for its interior. Which brings us to the 2015 Subaru AWD Outback launched this week in

Craig Duff road tests and reviews the new Subaru Outback and Liberty at their Australian launch.