2013 Subaru Liberty And Outback Revealed, New 2.5 Litre Boxer On-board
Subaru's US-market Legacy (Liberty in Australia) and Outback have been revealed ahead of their New York Auto Show debut, picking up a host of styling tweaks and Subaru's new 2.5 litre boxer engine.
For 2013, the Liberty and Outback pick up
Subaru's US-market Legacy (Liberty in Australia) and Outback have been revealed ahead of their New York Auto Show debut, picking up a host of styling tweaks and Subaru's new 2.5 litre boxer engine.
For 2013, the Liberty and Outback pick up a large new Impreza-inspired grille design, along with new bumpers and new wheel designs.
In the cabin, there's upgraded materials and trims, revised equipment options and a new electro-luminescent instrument cluster.
The big story however is under the bonnet, with Subaru's new naturally-aspirated 'FB' DOHC 2.5 litre four-cylinder boxer engine replacing the existing SOHC 2.5 litre boxer.
Subaru's second-generation Lineartronic CVT automatic transmission is also featured, along with a six-speed manual transmission.
Power is up from 123kW and 229Nm to 126kW and 235Nm, while fuel consumption in the Liberty, paired with the CVT, is shaved from 8.9 to 8.7 litres.
The range-topping 3.6 litre six-cylinder boxer engine carries over unchanged. The turbocharged 2.5 GT model has been discontinued in the US, although it remains to be seen if the Australian model will follow.
Subaru says it has also refined the suspension and steering of both cars, promising a smoother and quieter driving experience. Body roll has also been reduced by 40 percent.
Australia
As a North American update, it remains to be seen how much of this upgrade will make its way to Australia, although the updated face and the new engine are likely a shoo-in.
Speaking with TMR today, Subaru Australia's David Rowley could not confirm local plans or timing for this update.
"Of course, with the passing of each model year we make refinements to the range, so you can be certain there will be further developments for MY13. As to what they’ll be, watch this space," Mr Rowley said.
The Australian Liberty and Outback models have not gone without their share of updates, with the important new EyeSight preventative safety system joining the range in December last year.
Other upgrades in December included, for the entry-level 2.5i grade; leather trim, air vents for the rear row, eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, electric lumbar support, a 4.3-inch LCD screen with USB connectivity, and a full-size spare wheel.
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