2013 Subaru Liberty GT Wagon
Discussion
From responses to other threads, I don't think many are familiar with these. Some will know of the Gen4 (2003-8) Liberty/Legacy and the fantastic GT/STi versions but it doesn't look like the Gen5 made it to the UK at all. V popular in Aus, though not as popular as its predecessor, challenging looks didn't help... Apparently for the (seemingly blind) US market.
This is my fourth Liberty, and third Liberty wagon...
Anyway, the stats:
2.5T Flat four
195kW/261bhp @ 5600
320Nm @ 2400-5200
AWD
6-sp manual
0-100kmh around 6.3s
0-160kmh around 14s
Weight around 1550kg - only a little more than the Gen4 - my 05 GT Wagon was 1500kg
Power/Weight around 170bhp/tonne
Numbers are, as always, only part of the story. The turbo whack is smooth and whilst there is lag, its nowhere as noticeable as in the previous 2.0T. Which is a bit of a shame - that engine span to 7750 and gave a good 4000rpm of BBBOOOOOOSSSTTTT, whereas this one is quieter, more efficient, but a little more dull because of it. Anyway, the shove is there, its just more discreet.
Quality is another mark down. This doesn't feel as well made as the Gen4 - they really did feel solid. This one feels a little tinny in comparison. Time, and 3 kids, will tell.
All the goodies are there inside - leather, AC, sunroof, decent stereo, whatever, whatever, whatever. That's never the attraction of any car for me.
What does attract is how it fits, and every Subaru I've driven always fits me well. This is no different. Wheel, pedals, lever all perfectly positioned for me, and whilst some of the controls aren't the last word in detailed feedback, they are consistent and perfectly acceptable. Handling is probably safe, rather than fun, with an abundance of grip probably spoiling the party at lower speeds. But it does inspire confidence no matter what the weather or road conditions. I live in a hilly part of a place that gets a lot of rain - AWD really is useful.
Anyway, as a car, I like it.
Enough waffle, here's some pics...
Obligatory shot with driveway mates...
Not really planning any special stuff for it, but will update as we go. Plan is to keep it a few years, hopefully all is better than the V70 before...
This is my fourth Liberty, and third Liberty wagon...
Anyway, the stats:
2.5T Flat four
195kW/261bhp @ 5600
320Nm @ 2400-5200
AWD
6-sp manual
0-100kmh around 6.3s
0-160kmh around 14s
Weight around 1550kg - only a little more than the Gen4 - my 05 GT Wagon was 1500kg
Power/Weight around 170bhp/tonne
Numbers are, as always, only part of the story. The turbo whack is smooth and whilst there is lag, its nowhere as noticeable as in the previous 2.0T. Which is a bit of a shame - that engine span to 7750 and gave a good 4000rpm of BBBOOOOOOSSSTTTT, whereas this one is quieter, more efficient, but a little more dull because of it. Anyway, the shove is there, its just more discreet.
Quality is another mark down. This doesn't feel as well made as the Gen4 - they really did feel solid. This one feels a little tinny in comparison. Time, and 3 kids, will tell.
All the goodies are there inside - leather, AC, sunroof, decent stereo, whatever, whatever, whatever. That's never the attraction of any car for me.
What does attract is how it fits, and every Subaru I've driven always fits me well. This is no different. Wheel, pedals, lever all perfectly positioned for me, and whilst some of the controls aren't the last word in detailed feedback, they are consistent and perfectly acceptable. Handling is probably safe, rather than fun, with an abundance of grip probably spoiling the party at lower speeds. But it does inspire confidence no matter what the weather or road conditions. I live in a hilly part of a place that gets a lot of rain - AWD really is useful.
Anyway, as a car, I like it.
Enough waffle, here's some pics...
Obligatory shot with driveway mates...
Not really planning any special stuff for it, but will update as we go. Plan is to keep it a few years, hopefully all is better than the V70 before...
Edited by PomBstard on Monday 27th February 11:37
Well, we've had a spot of rain locally over the past few weeks, and more is planned. The Sube somehow finds great traction no matter what, it really is very capable. Mrs PB's Golf has made great use of the TC pulling away and out of corners, but the Lib has just got going - no fuss, no drama.
Allied to this is a level of chuckability that makes it fun in all weathers. Its not the last word in precision, but it is wonderfully mechanical after the under-rated Mazda and the vastly over-rated Volvo. The only blot for me is a slightly notchy box that sometimes makes 3 -> 2 a tricky gate to get right, but after two years of slushboxes, I'm not bothered.
The power delivery still catches me out. Its very discreet, even more so than the Volvo was, but a glance at the speedo can be enlightening. Hitting the # button does make things more evident, but still not as obvious as the Golf alongside it.
The build quality appears to be there after all, its just that you don't need to slam the doors to effect the thunk that many perceive as the true sign. Just push the doors gently to, and they close really lightly. Nothing rattles, and nothing looks like it'll break too easily.
Its also gone through its first service with me. Regular mechanic was impressed this time (the V70 really ticked him off...) and noted absolutely nothing wrong. Always nice to hear, no matter how thorough you've been yourself. Its now of about 93,000km and the belt service is due at 125,000 - I reckon around 2 years away.
The only thing I've not really bothered to note is the fuel consumption. In fact I've just gone out to check - 20-21mpg seems to be the score. Acceptable in my book, considering the urban life it leads, and the hard life it gets when the chance arises. I've not yet done a long motorway run, but I reckon 30-35 with the bike rack on would be about right.
Anyway, that's about it for now - might see if I can get some more pics up when the weather clears, which is looking like being sometime around May...
Allied to this is a level of chuckability that makes it fun in all weathers. Its not the last word in precision, but it is wonderfully mechanical after the under-rated Mazda and the vastly over-rated Volvo. The only blot for me is a slightly notchy box that sometimes makes 3 -> 2 a tricky gate to get right, but after two years of slushboxes, I'm not bothered.
The power delivery still catches me out. Its very discreet, even more so than the Volvo was, but a glance at the speedo can be enlightening. Hitting the # button does make things more evident, but still not as obvious as the Golf alongside it.
The build quality appears to be there after all, its just that you don't need to slam the doors to effect the thunk that many perceive as the true sign. Just push the doors gently to, and they close really lightly. Nothing rattles, and nothing looks like it'll break too easily.
Its also gone through its first service with me. Regular mechanic was impressed this time (the V70 really ticked him off...) and noted absolutely nothing wrong. Always nice to hear, no matter how thorough you've been yourself. Its now of about 93,000km and the belt service is due at 125,000 - I reckon around 2 years away.
The only thing I've not really bothered to note is the fuel consumption. In fact I've just gone out to check - 20-21mpg seems to be the score. Acceptable in my book, considering the urban life it leads, and the hard life it gets when the chance arises. I've not yet done a long motorway run, but I reckon 30-35 with the bike rack on would be about right.
Anyway, that's about it for now - might see if I can get some more pics up when the weather clears, which is looking like being sometime around May...
but only a Forester owner could ever say that...MDMA . said:
Still prefer the smoother front end on the gen4 ( have one myself )
Me too - in fact, the whole thing looks better - gratuitous shot of my 2005 GT at Bathurst...
As for 402s, not sure. We did get STi versions, which with the 2.0T meant 200kW/268bhp, whereas my GT was 180kW/240bhp. It also came with a very tasty set of Enkei wheels, and was otherwise very discreet.
Of course, having said how much I like the thing, and how completely reliable I'm expecting things to be, its thrown a boost leak at me. Well, at least that's what I'm hoping it is.
Symptoms are hissing/shrieking noise over the usual whistle once the turbo's on full boost, over 2500rpm. Goes away when throttle is released slightly. No smoke, or noticeable loss of power, idle is fine. Needs to be under load to happen, which means can't replicate it on the driveway. Have checked all inlet side so far, but utterly s
te weather and lack of under cover space have prevented further investigation.
When its predecessor did this symptoms included a lumpiness getting to full boost, and was solved by removing and cleaning all the plumbing on the inlet side.
Will let it go for this week and see if I can get at it next week. Anyone any other clues???
Symptoms are hissing/shrieking noise over the usual whistle once the turbo's on full boost, over 2500rpm. Goes away when throttle is released slightly. No smoke, or noticeable loss of power, idle is fine. Needs to be under load to happen, which means can't replicate it on the driveway. Have checked all inlet side so far, but utterly s
te weather and lack of under cover space have prevented further investigation.When its predecessor did this symptoms included a lumpiness getting to full boost, and was solved by removing and cleaning all the plumbing on the inlet side.
Will let it go for this week and see if I can get at it next week. Anyone any other clues???
Blimey, time flies. And so does this thing. Have gotten into the groove - boost leak, well, not so sure - there is still a leak of some sorts, but the discreet way its picking up speed means very little is wrong. Its one of those cars that manages to pile on the speed between corners without you really noticing, until you realise the next corner is coming up a lot quicker than you expected. Swift cross-country progress is to be made.
Have taken a few road trips, inc Canberra for a spot of mtb'ing. Average of 30mpg with a bike on the roof is not too back considering capability.
Had to swap with MrsPB's Golf for a week or so whilst the rear screen on the Golf was being ordered and replaced. Funny how you get used to certain things. It rained a lot during this time, and I missed the ability of the Subaru to just go in all weathers. The Golf was fine, but just different, and not as capable.
Off to find some snow in a few weeks, should be fun...!!
Downsides? Well, there's a rattle in the tailgate/boot area which I've got to find, the driver's seat has a squeak - I think there's a mouse living in the backrest, and the gearbox is notchy when cold, esp 3 -> 2. Otherwise, its probably just about the perfect car for my circumstances.
Have taken a few road trips, inc Canberra for a spot of mtb'ing. Average of 30mpg with a bike on the roof is not too back considering capability.
Had to swap with MrsPB's Golf for a week or so whilst the rear screen on the Golf was being ordered and replaced. Funny how you get used to certain things. It rained a lot during this time, and I missed the ability of the Subaru to just go in all weathers. The Golf was fine, but just different, and not as capable.
Off to find some snow in a few weeks, should be fun...!!
Downsides? Well, there's a rattle in the tailgate/boot area which I've got to find, the driver's seat has a squeak - I think there's a mouse living in the backrest, and the gearbox is notchy when cold, esp 3 -> 2. Otherwise, its probably just about the perfect car for my circumstances.
Thought I’d give an update, as I’ve had the car a year now. Its just ticked over 100,000km and 5 years old, nicely run in.
The plus sides are still comfort, space, handling, performance and driving position. The downsides are still fuel economy, looks, and the slightly notchy ‘box. Many on here criticize Subaru interiors for their downmarket feel, and whilst that might be justified when compared to the usual German, Jag, and Volvo competitors, its durable, all still works, is clear, and feels like it’ll continue working until its told to stop. The satnav screen is old hat, but I don’t use that, and I’m not bothered by other graphics – just some dials and a clock please.
Averaging around 22-24mpg for the usual urban assault, with 35mpg on a gentle run. We’ve just done a 2000km jaunt in a week, and averaged 32mpg, which wasn’t bad as it had a bike on the roof for pretty much all of that journey. Mrs PB's Golf came with us too and only managed about 40mpg for the trip. Worth noting that after 2000km in 7 days, including two 800km stints in a day, interspersed with lots of cycling and swimming, I didn’t ache at all – the seats and driving position really are spot-on for me.
The interior is holding up very well to the assault of three small children, and the rear bench provides plenty of space for them. Its just that bit wider than the 03-09 Gen 4 Liberty and it’s a useful space. The squeak from the drivers seat turned out to be the leather rubbing on the plastic centre console – some leather cleaner to act as a lubricant has sorted that. And the rattle from the tailgate was the number plate – padded double-sided tape was the answer.
I’ve also found a different Subaru indie to use, and was good to get their view on the car when I put it in for a service back in September. The view was that its all going well, engine feels strong, no signs of anything untoward.
The other thing that’s still in its favour is the feeling of reliability. Mrs PB’s 2011 Golf GTI seems to enjoy using its dashboard lights and bonging every now and then, just to let us know something else needs attention. The Lib just starts and goes. Obviously I’ve got the dreaded head gasket or piston ring failure to look forward to at any time…
At some point in the next couple of months it’ll need a new set of tyres. 225/45R18 so not too outlandish to find. Conti MaxContact 5 on at the mo have been OK – no real downsides to note, but likely that I’ll see if a set of Michelin PS4 can fit. I’ve just put some of the Golf and have been impressed at the improvement over the Turanzas that were on previously. Grip and pace dominate the Lib's handling feel, so decent tyres are a must. Its not a machine with too much finesse, but that probably applies to many other cars in this class, let alone those with AWD. Simple to place and faithful to the line though.
One of the things I’ve also grown to appreciate is the discretion. On the bootlid it says �AWD” on one side and “Liberty” on the other, and that is the sum total of all badges on the exterior. Nothing written to inform or give clues as to the engine size or its configuration or aspiration. Nothing to note trim level or designer. Just twin exhausts, just like a regular 2.5i, and a small slot in the bonnet, just like an Outback Diesel. Catches a few other drivers by surprise…
It’ll also need another service soon, and it also feels, and sounds, like one of the bushes in the OSF suspension is worn too, so we’ll have a look on a ramp.
So, overall, a year later, I’m still happy with the choice, and would happily recommend to any looking for a family hold-all with a bit of poke, that’s not one of the usual suspects. No, it doesn’t have a soft-touch dash. Nor does it look particularly classy or elegant as an overall design. Considering our other two cars are a Golf GTI and a Porsche 928, its still never feels like being short-changed to drive the Lib. The next road trip includes going through Bathurst, will have to see if the Mountain is open for a lap…
The plus sides are still comfort, space, handling, performance and driving position. The downsides are still fuel economy, looks, and the slightly notchy ‘box. Many on here criticize Subaru interiors for their downmarket feel, and whilst that might be justified when compared to the usual German, Jag, and Volvo competitors, its durable, all still works, is clear, and feels like it’ll continue working until its told to stop. The satnav screen is old hat, but I don’t use that, and I’m not bothered by other graphics – just some dials and a clock please.
Averaging around 22-24mpg for the usual urban assault, with 35mpg on a gentle run. We’ve just done a 2000km jaunt in a week, and averaged 32mpg, which wasn’t bad as it had a bike on the roof for pretty much all of that journey. Mrs PB's Golf came with us too and only managed about 40mpg for the trip. Worth noting that after 2000km in 7 days, including two 800km stints in a day, interspersed with lots of cycling and swimming, I didn’t ache at all – the seats and driving position really are spot-on for me.
The interior is holding up very well to the assault of three small children, and the rear bench provides plenty of space for them. Its just that bit wider than the 03-09 Gen 4 Liberty and it’s a useful space. The squeak from the drivers seat turned out to be the leather rubbing on the plastic centre console – some leather cleaner to act as a lubricant has sorted that. And the rattle from the tailgate was the number plate – padded double-sided tape was the answer.
I’ve also found a different Subaru indie to use, and was good to get their view on the car when I put it in for a service back in September. The view was that its all going well, engine feels strong, no signs of anything untoward.
The other thing that’s still in its favour is the feeling of reliability. Mrs PB’s 2011 Golf GTI seems to enjoy using its dashboard lights and bonging every now and then, just to let us know something else needs attention. The Lib just starts and goes. Obviously I’ve got the dreaded head gasket or piston ring failure to look forward to at any time…
At some point in the next couple of months it’ll need a new set of tyres. 225/45R18 so not too outlandish to find. Conti MaxContact 5 on at the mo have been OK – no real downsides to note, but likely that I’ll see if a set of Michelin PS4 can fit. I’ve just put some of the Golf and have been impressed at the improvement over the Turanzas that were on previously. Grip and pace dominate the Lib's handling feel, so decent tyres are a must. Its not a machine with too much finesse, but that probably applies to many other cars in this class, let alone those with AWD. Simple to place and faithful to the line though.
One of the things I’ve also grown to appreciate is the discretion. On the bootlid it says �AWD” on one side and “Liberty” on the other, and that is the sum total of all badges on the exterior. Nothing written to inform or give clues as to the engine size or its configuration or aspiration. Nothing to note trim level or designer. Just twin exhausts, just like a regular 2.5i, and a small slot in the bonnet, just like an Outback Diesel. Catches a few other drivers by surprise…
It’ll also need another service soon, and it also feels, and sounds, like one of the bushes in the OSF suspension is worn too, so we’ll have a look on a ramp.
So, overall, a year later, I’m still happy with the choice, and would happily recommend to any looking for a family hold-all with a bit of poke, that’s not one of the usual suspects. No, it doesn’t have a soft-touch dash. Nor does it look particularly classy or elegant as an overall design. Considering our other two cars are a Golf GTI and a Porsche 928, its still never feels like being short-changed to drive the Lib. The next road trip includes going through Bathurst, will have to see if the Mountain is open for a lap…
Edited by PomBstard on Monday 8th January 23:45
Thanks - would love to upgrade a few parts, and rear arb would be on the list but it’s really a swift family hold all, rather than blaster, so will keep standard for the time being. And the other two cars are more than happy to soak up any spare cash at the mo.
Drove past Mount Panorama today, with the Golf behind, so took them both for a loop. Well worth doing if you ever get the chance just to get a real sense of how tight and steep the skyline section is...
Drove past Mount Panorama today, with the Golf behind, so took them both for a loop. Well worth doing if you ever get the chance just to get a real sense of how tight and steep the skyline section is...
Have just finished another little trip with the family - total is about 3000km in 4 weeks and the car was just right.
Route this time was cross-country along some fairly bumpy roads at 100kmh in 36C and took it all in it’s stride. The Golf came along again (we couldn’t get 6 in the Lib) and the ride made things less comfy in there.
Averaged around 33mpg - again, not bothered by that, though this became a familiar sight...
I reckon those 3000km in two cars have cost around $850 which is significantly less than hiring a 7 seater to drive or flying 6 people around. And flying just ain’t as much fun for these sorts of trips.
A few dirt roads have emphasised the worn bush(es) at the OSF but nothing that got in the way of progress, Golf followed but less swiftly...
Both are more than a little grubby!
Route this time was cross-country along some fairly bumpy roads at 100kmh in 36C and took it all in it’s stride. The Golf came along again (we couldn’t get 6 in the Lib) and the ride made things less comfy in there.
Averaged around 33mpg - again, not bothered by that, though this became a familiar sight...
I reckon those 3000km in two cars have cost around $850 which is significantly less than hiring a 7 seater to drive or flying 6 people around. And flying just ain’t as much fun for these sorts of trips.
A few dirt roads have emphasised the worn bush(es) at the OSF but nothing that got in the way of progress, Golf followed but less swiftly...
Both are more than a little grubby!
Just realised its been almost a year since the last note, so here's an update.
Nothing's changed. Yep, really. The car hasn't missed a beat, its still swift and comfortable, roomy and thirsty, reliable and entertaining. And now its just had one of the scheduled major services, at 113,000km, it feels even better. I think the new plugs are the winners here, it was starting to feel a little lumpy mid-range, like a coil was starting to go, but is now wonderfully smooth and torquey again. Next service will be the belt change.
Regular bike trips continue to show its spacious for three bikes and three blokes. Couple of recent trips to Stromlo in Canberra, including being first in the car park which was a novelty...
What is new is that the young bloke is now showing a strong interest in cars, and because we have one, he can pick all the Subarus on the road. If we park next to another Subaru then I have to take a photo for him, and there are lots of Subes in Australia...
We've got a family trip coming up, so with the Conti SportContacts just about done, I've got a set of PS4s to go on next week. The Contis have been fine, so will be interesting to see what benefits the Michelins can bring.
And finally, I'm going to look at getting it remapped - I'm not after power, just better running through the range. It's set to run on 95RON, but is always run on 98, so we'll see what can be done.
Nothing's changed. Yep, really. The car hasn't missed a beat, its still swift and comfortable, roomy and thirsty, reliable and entertaining. And now its just had one of the scheduled major services, at 113,000km, it feels even better. I think the new plugs are the winners here, it was starting to feel a little lumpy mid-range, like a coil was starting to go, but is now wonderfully smooth and torquey again. Next service will be the belt change.
Regular bike trips continue to show its spacious for three bikes and three blokes. Couple of recent trips to Stromlo in Canberra, including being first in the car park which was a novelty...
What is new is that the young bloke is now showing a strong interest in cars, and because we have one, he can pick all the Subarus on the road. If we park next to another Subaru then I have to take a photo for him, and there are lots of Subes in Australia...
We've got a family trip coming up, so with the Conti SportContacts just about done, I've got a set of PS4s to go on next week. The Contis have been fine, so will be interesting to see what benefits the Michelins can bring.
And finally, I'm going to look at getting it remapped - I'm not after power, just better running through the range. It's set to run on 95RON, but is always run on 98, so we'll see what can be done.
A full set of Michelin PS4 have been on about a week and I'm still astounded that the difference is so noticeable. The ride is much improved, steering feels sharper, and the road noise is down, though I've not really had much chance to try the limits of grip. The Contis were by no means bad, but the difference is definitely there.
Road trip coming up, so second bike rack fitted to the roof - wonder what that'll do to fuel economy...??? Usual once-over to check all is as it should be, recent service helps.
Also had the Takata airbag replaced, along with a recall for the electronic handbrake mechanism. Dealer took a day and a half, and helped me remember why I don't use them for anything.
Road trip coming up, so second bike rack fitted to the roof - wonder what that'll do to fuel economy...??? Usual once-over to check all is as it should be, recent service helps.
Also had the Takata airbag replaced, along with a recall for the electronic handbrake mechanism. Dealer took a day and a half, and helped me remember why I don't use them for anything.
Another family road trip saw 1500km put on in eight days without hitch. Two bikes on the roof for most of the time, and Alpine roads when without, meant an average of 30mpg, which is still OK to me. MrsPB's Golf came along to provide further space for all the activity kit and to separate the kids!
The 7 or so hours each way were made so much lighter by PB Jnr continually spotting Subarus everywhere. Forester, Liberty, Outback, XV, Impreza, WRX - all easily identified, and the quicker varieties picked out for special noting...
The Snowies is also worth a trip for anyone whose not been and likes a bit of outdoor action - this is the view from the back door of the place we rented...
Its also worth noting that in the two years I've had it, I've not needed to add any oil between services.
Being able to make better use of the car on the roads around the Snowy Mountains was fun. Combined with the new tyres, even during one of the local downpours, traction was never in doubt, and the ability to dispatch slower traffic made progress simple. Its been a great workhorse and motorway slogger, but cross-country is its forte.
One thing I might have to address soon is the woeful sound system. Its McIntosh-branded, but its so below the standard of the Gen4 set up. There's no depth or clarity to the sound, and even though it has a USB port, its easily confused by anything plugged in.
Otherwise, business as usual, and I mean that in a good way.
The 7 or so hours each way were made so much lighter by PB Jnr continually spotting Subarus everywhere. Forester, Liberty, Outback, XV, Impreza, WRX - all easily identified, and the quicker varieties picked out for special noting...
The Snowies is also worth a trip for anyone whose not been and likes a bit of outdoor action - this is the view from the back door of the place we rented...
Its also worth noting that in the two years I've had it, I've not needed to add any oil between services.
Being able to make better use of the car on the roads around the Snowy Mountains was fun. Combined with the new tyres, even during one of the local downpours, traction was never in doubt, and the ability to dispatch slower traffic made progress simple. Its been a great workhorse and motorway slogger, but cross-country is its forte.
One thing I might have to address soon is the woeful sound system. Its McIntosh-branded, but its so below the standard of the Gen4 set up. There's no depth or clarity to the sound, and even though it has a USB port, its easily confused by anything plugged in.
Otherwise, business as usual, and I mean that in a good way.
Time for an update. We’re up to 127,000kms and the car’s had a major service that included changing the timing belts. No other items noted, but I did get a chance to walk around underneath and realized I’ve never really had a proper look. No problems, but nice to see the distinctive yellow of a set of Bilsteins…
The PS4s that were fitted about a year ago are wearing well, considering the use, and continue to offer a good balance of noise, comfort and traction. They’ll be replaced with the same again come the time.
Also, still not needing to add oil between services, though did have to put in about 3-4psi in all tyres. Once.
However, I do now need to replace one of the low beam bulbs. Not the job of a moment. There are apparently two ways to get to this part of the lamp – one if through the wheelarch by partially removing the liner, but this still leaves the action blind and requiring ET’s fingers. The second is to remove the front bumper and the lamp unit, which is the option I went for.
There are 19 plastic clips to undo, then a further 5 bolts, and a complicated spring mechanism, but it wasn’t terribly difficult. Until I realized I had the wrong replacement bulbs, my car has xenons, not halogens. So it all went back together and is now waiting for the next 2-hr gap in life that I’ve got. Bulb replacement should be a side-of-the-road job, in any weather. Its so far the only black mark against the car.
We’ve done a couple of family road trips – a 1000km trip to get the kids on skis back in August, and a 2700km trip to Noosa for MrsPB to take part in what I think is the worlds largest triathlon event. As usual the car was faultless, comfortable and just about big enough for us all.
August in Canberra is cold, and was my first encounter with a frosty windscreen for nearly 20 years! But I was getting up at 0500 to go mountain biking, so was pretty sure I could cope…
Whilst on the Sunshine Coast we took in Australia Zoo, a floating inflatable playground and, on the way up, the Big Banana. If you’re passing, it’d be a shame not to do any of those things!
Average economy was around 32mpg for the Noosa trip, which was pretty good considering is was full up, had a bike on the roof, coped with the various urban excursions, and was travelling through smoke for much of the journey.
The huge bush fires along the NSW/QLD coast were never far away. This was taken in Port Macquarie the evening before the town was engulfed by smoke from nearby fires. On our way home the next day, the motorway was closed in both directions just a couple of hours after we passed through. It was smoky, and the fires are still going now.
So, once more, the summary is of a boringly reliable car that’s hugely rewarding to own. We’re starting to outgrow it so a replacement beckons, sometime in 2020 I reckon, though whatever it is, it’ll have enormous shoes to fill.
The PS4s that were fitted about a year ago are wearing well, considering the use, and continue to offer a good balance of noise, comfort and traction. They’ll be replaced with the same again come the time.
Also, still not needing to add oil between services, though did have to put in about 3-4psi in all tyres. Once.
However, I do now need to replace one of the low beam bulbs. Not the job of a moment. There are apparently two ways to get to this part of the lamp – one if through the wheelarch by partially removing the liner, but this still leaves the action blind and requiring ET’s fingers. The second is to remove the front bumper and the lamp unit, which is the option I went for.
There are 19 plastic clips to undo, then a further 5 bolts, and a complicated spring mechanism, but it wasn’t terribly difficult. Until I realized I had the wrong replacement bulbs, my car has xenons, not halogens. So it all went back together and is now waiting for the next 2-hr gap in life that I’ve got. Bulb replacement should be a side-of-the-road job, in any weather. Its so far the only black mark against the car.
We’ve done a couple of family road trips – a 1000km trip to get the kids on skis back in August, and a 2700km trip to Noosa for MrsPB to take part in what I think is the worlds largest triathlon event. As usual the car was faultless, comfortable and just about big enough for us all.
August in Canberra is cold, and was my first encounter with a frosty windscreen for nearly 20 years! But I was getting up at 0500 to go mountain biking, so was pretty sure I could cope…
Whilst on the Sunshine Coast we took in Australia Zoo, a floating inflatable playground and, on the way up, the Big Banana. If you’re passing, it’d be a shame not to do any of those things!
Average economy was around 32mpg for the Noosa trip, which was pretty good considering is was full up, had a bike on the roof, coped with the various urban excursions, and was travelling through smoke for much of the journey.
The huge bush fires along the NSW/QLD coast were never far away. This was taken in Port Macquarie the evening before the town was engulfed by smoke from nearby fires. On our way home the next day, the motorway was closed in both directions just a couple of hours after we passed through. It was smoky, and the fires are still going now.
So, once more, the summary is of a boringly reliable car that’s hugely rewarding to own. We’re starting to outgrow it so a replacement beckons, sometime in 2020 I reckon, though whatever it is, it’ll have enormous shoes to fill.
Edited by PomBstard on Saturday 23 November 04:44
Edited by PomBstard on Saturday 23 November 04:47
S100HP said:
Really like this car, and your thread. It's a real shame they didn't sell this in the UK, I'm still drawn to a Subaru even after my last experiment.
Thanks! The real shame is that Subaru don’t make this any more. The Levorg is too small, and there is no Liberty wagon anyway. The parts exist - WRX drivetrain and Outback shell - but clearly not part of Subaru’s plan.For me, this means that when I come to replace it, a Subaru won’t be on my shortlist for the first time in many many years. I’m sure I’ll miss much about this car, as an ownership experience, it’s been top notch.
I’ve had the car three years now, and covered about 38,000km, so thought I’d think about how much its cost over that time. All costs in AU$, just halve it to get GBP.
I’ll start with the obvious one – fuel. Its what puts many off the idea of running a Subaru, esp one with forced induction that is fed a 98-RON diet of only BP Ultimate or Shell V-Power. I reckon over the three years its averaged about 11l/100km or about 26mpg in old money. It lives a hard, urban life, with a couple of big road trips every year. Cruising with a bike on the roof gives around 32-34mpg, traffic jams see it fall closer to 21-22mpg. So, around 4000 litres at an average of around $1.75/litre gives a fuel bill of about $7,000.
If it managed to average 8l/100km or 35 mpg, and could run on the low octane 91 Unleaded here, then the fuel cost would be about $4,500 – a saving of $2,500 over the three years.
I’ve had the car serviced at an independent Sube specialist every 8-10,000km, four times so far, which included one just after I bought it, and its now coming up for the fifth. Two of those services have been “big” services – one is an all-fluids change at around 110,000km which cost about $800, and the second a belts change at around 125,000km, which cost about $1400. The other two services were around $350 each, so servicing has cost about $3,000. No more big services for a few years now.
Other items have been front bushes ($200), a battery ($220), two headlight bulbs (HID, so $200), and a set of four tyres (Michelin PS4, so $1000). And that’s it in three years, an additional $1,620 over regular servicing. I’d suggest all of those items are consumables.
Adding that lot up comes to $11,620, lets round up to $12,000 so its $4,000pa or $333/mth.
I reckon depreciation will be about $7-8,000 at the mo – paid $29k, could probably get around $22k as the combination of wagon body, turbo engine, and manual box is reasonably rare one even in a country where Subaru’s market share is about the same as VW’s.
Insurance has been about $2,400 for the three years, and rego/CTP is about $1,000pa, so another $3,000.
OK, so now the total total is around $23k for everything, which is about $640/mth, or $0.61/km. I’ll save you the calc, its 48p/mile. Coming back to the car being more economical, the 35mpg on regular unleaded would see that 48p/mile drop to 44p/mile. Is that really worth worrying about?
I don’t think that’s too bad for a spacious, comfortable family car that capable of 0-60 in around 6s, has permanent AWD, and can still offer the fun of three pedals. It’s the utter reliability that’s key – there has been zero reasons to be worried. I would be comfortable to load up the family tomorrow, and drive across the Nullabor to Perth, with just a regular cursory check of levels.
There are family cars that are bigger and quicker and more economical, but how many owners would feel happy about driving one of those across the Nullabor, at 7 years old, with no warranty?
Fuel costs – nothing to get excited about really.
I’ll start with the obvious one – fuel. Its what puts many off the idea of running a Subaru, esp one with forced induction that is fed a 98-RON diet of only BP Ultimate or Shell V-Power. I reckon over the three years its averaged about 11l/100km or about 26mpg in old money. It lives a hard, urban life, with a couple of big road trips every year. Cruising with a bike on the roof gives around 32-34mpg, traffic jams see it fall closer to 21-22mpg. So, around 4000 litres at an average of around $1.75/litre gives a fuel bill of about $7,000.
If it managed to average 8l/100km or 35 mpg, and could run on the low octane 91 Unleaded here, then the fuel cost would be about $4,500 – a saving of $2,500 over the three years.
I’ve had the car serviced at an independent Sube specialist every 8-10,000km, four times so far, which included one just after I bought it, and its now coming up for the fifth. Two of those services have been “big” services – one is an all-fluids change at around 110,000km which cost about $800, and the second a belts change at around 125,000km, which cost about $1400. The other two services were around $350 each, so servicing has cost about $3,000. No more big services for a few years now.
Other items have been front bushes ($200), a battery ($220), two headlight bulbs (HID, so $200), and a set of four tyres (Michelin PS4, so $1000). And that’s it in three years, an additional $1,620 over regular servicing. I’d suggest all of those items are consumables.
Adding that lot up comes to $11,620, lets round up to $12,000 so its $4,000pa or $333/mth.
I reckon depreciation will be about $7-8,000 at the mo – paid $29k, could probably get around $22k as the combination of wagon body, turbo engine, and manual box is reasonably rare one even in a country where Subaru’s market share is about the same as VW’s.
Insurance has been about $2,400 for the three years, and rego/CTP is about $1,000pa, so another $3,000.
OK, so now the total total is around $23k for everything, which is about $640/mth, or $0.61/km. I’ll save you the calc, its 48p/mile. Coming back to the car being more economical, the 35mpg on regular unleaded would see that 48p/mile drop to 44p/mile. Is that really worth worrying about?
I don’t think that’s too bad for a spacious, comfortable family car that capable of 0-60 in around 6s, has permanent AWD, and can still offer the fun of three pedals. It’s the utter reliability that’s key – there has been zero reasons to be worried. I would be comfortable to load up the family tomorrow, and drive across the Nullabor to Perth, with just a regular cursory check of levels.
There are family cars that are bigger and quicker and more economical, but how many owners would feel happy about driving one of those across the Nullabor, at 7 years old, with no warranty?
Fuel costs – nothing to get excited about really.
SVX said:
Great write up, I had a Gen 4 3.0rn saloon for 8 years, and other than servicing costs and consumables it was utterly bombproof. We did get the Gen 5 here in the UK, but only in estate form. They didn't sell well, in fact Subaru UK are the Japanese equivalent Alfa Romeo in terms of dealers and sales strategy. Which is a shame, as they really are unique vehicles.
Hope yours continues to give you reliable effortless motoring.
Thanks! Much as I like the car and it’s abilities, we do seem to be close to outgrowing it and will probably look to replace later this year. There is nothing else out there with the same combination of features, performance and reliability so it’ll be more of a compromise than usual.Hope yours continues to give you reliable effortless motoring.
If only Subaru would put the current WRX gubbins into the current Outback shell and give it to STI to sort - that could be just the job...
In car tech – something many on here use to help with their choice of car, not something for which Subaru are renowned so here’s a quick rundown on what tech from 7/8 years ago is good and not so good…
Keyless entry/go – proper keyless this. Small, smooth plastic rectangle in the pocket, hand on the door handle unlocks the car, foot on the clutch and press a button to start. Handbrake on, push button to kill the engine, close the door and push small button on the handle to lock the car. OK, so it opens the whole car including the boot, but it has been flawless and I miss it when I’m driving other cars.
Sat-nav – crap, blocky and utterly unused in three years. Just don’t need it here, Google Maps has traffic linked and on longer journeys there are only one or two ways to go anyway.
Music – its got a 6-CD stacker! Woo!! And has an in-built USB in the armrest, which is better than the crappy plug thing that MrsPB’s one-year-older Golf came with. However the McKintosh-branded head unit is rubbish and the speakers don’t help. Just haven’t got around to changing it.
Bluetooth – phone connects easily but can be confused if plugged into the USB. Best to leave unplugged for calls.
Dashboard info is limited to a couple of trip meters, outside temp, fuel consumption data, and length of current trip. And that’s it. Service schedule? A sticker on the windscreen tells me when the next one is due.
Controls on the steering wheel – music, phone answer/hang-up, cruise control (buttons rather than the easy-to-use stalk of old), and sports mode buttons. All work fine.
Electronic handbrake – little lever by the gearstick, with a flick of the finger its push down to release, pull up to set. So much more intuitive than the dash-mounted version on the V70. Has also worked flawlessly, and causes no problems with hillstarts with a manual box. The only downside is that its either on or off, but that’s the same for all of these.
It doesn’t have Subaru’s Eyesight system which is the preemptive collision avoidance braking thing. Some people love it, but I drove one with it when buying this, and found it too touchy even on a short test drive. It also doesn’t have radar cruise control, but the cruise control system it does have is easy to adjust on the go, and at least means I need to keep some form of concentration going.
Overall, I’m not sure what gadgets its missing that I’d want. It doesn’t have lane assist, though I’ve driven a new Forester with it, and found it really distracting. Same for the blind spot monitoring indicator on the wing mirror. How the hell do people drive with all this crap?
The stuff it has works well enough and hasn’t broken, and apart from the occasional hiccup with the Bluetooth connection, hasn’t made me swear at it.
Keyless entry/go – proper keyless this. Small, smooth plastic rectangle in the pocket, hand on the door handle unlocks the car, foot on the clutch and press a button to start. Handbrake on, push button to kill the engine, close the door and push small button on the handle to lock the car. OK, so it opens the whole car including the boot, but it has been flawless and I miss it when I’m driving other cars.
Sat-nav – crap, blocky and utterly unused in three years. Just don’t need it here, Google Maps has traffic linked and on longer journeys there are only one or two ways to go anyway.
Music – its got a 6-CD stacker! Woo!! And has an in-built USB in the armrest, which is better than the crappy plug thing that MrsPB’s one-year-older Golf came with. However the McKintosh-branded head unit is rubbish and the speakers don’t help. Just haven’t got around to changing it.
Bluetooth – phone connects easily but can be confused if plugged into the USB. Best to leave unplugged for calls.
Dashboard info is limited to a couple of trip meters, outside temp, fuel consumption data, and length of current trip. And that’s it. Service schedule? A sticker on the windscreen tells me when the next one is due.
Controls on the steering wheel – music, phone answer/hang-up, cruise control (buttons rather than the easy-to-use stalk of old), and sports mode buttons. All work fine.
Electronic handbrake – little lever by the gearstick, with a flick of the finger its push down to release, pull up to set. So much more intuitive than the dash-mounted version on the V70. Has also worked flawlessly, and causes no problems with hillstarts with a manual box. The only downside is that its either on or off, but that’s the same for all of these.
It doesn’t have Subaru’s Eyesight system which is the preemptive collision avoidance braking thing. Some people love it, but I drove one with it when buying this, and found it too touchy even on a short test drive. It also doesn’t have radar cruise control, but the cruise control system it does have is easy to adjust on the go, and at least means I need to keep some form of concentration going.
Overall, I’m not sure what gadgets its missing that I’d want. It doesn’t have lane assist, though I’ve driven a new Forester with it, and found it really distracting. Same for the blind spot monitoring indicator on the wing mirror. How the hell do people drive with all this crap?
The stuff it has works well enough and hasn’t broken, and apart from the occasional hiccup with the Bluetooth connection, hasn’t made me swear at it.
Well, that’s it – its gone. Sold after four years, it was the perfect family car, and its replacement has some big shoes to fill, which I’ll get to in a mo. It wasn’t entirely without problem – and I’ll get to that in a mo too.
But the main gist of owning this car has been one of a comfortable, swift, spacious, secure, fun, reliable wagon with room for five, albeit one with, ahem, awkward looks. The drivers ergonomics are spot on – wheel and pedals dead straight ahead, gearstick in the right place for the left hand, clear dials, good view through the windows. I love the way it just fits me - the seat is the right size, the steering wheel (all Subaru wheels are made by MOMO) is perfect in size and rim thickness - which makes it so much easier to flick around.
The interior of Subarus gets a lot of flak on here. They may have the design flair of a cave, and the plastics of this era (this was designed during the fun times of 2008…) are probably not the softest. But it all works, none of it squeaks and none of it is peeling in the strong Aussie sun. The leather seats are unmarked – the guy who just bought it couldn’t believe the seats are 8 years old and have had a young family bounce around them for the last 4 years.
The ride is firm’ish, on 18”wheels with Bilstein shocks as standard, but could still lean a lot in tight corners. Grip was almost neverending on broad sweeping bends, and a set of PS4 all round helped enormously. Wet weather went unnoticed.
The engine was flexible and far torquier than the 2.0T of before, but whilst it span sweetly enough to the 6500 cutout, it didn’t feel as much fun. The sound was more sterile and flat, which was a shame.
However, it was still fun when I wanted to play. The 6MT box was a good match and easy to use, once warm, the engine pulled from tickover, but boost got going properly around 2600rpm. I liked that if I found myself on a fun road section, I could just enjoy it there and then. I didn’t have to go home to get the fun car – I don’t have time for that – it answered the one-car-to-do-it-all brief.
For much of its time with us it shared the driveway with a Mk6 Golf GTI and a 928S4. Taking the Sube never felt like being shortchanged, and if it was raining, it was the obvious choice.
Cross-country, 5-up, with bikes on the roof were an easy cruise. We managed several trips of 2-3000km, and I wouldn’t have hesitated to load us up and drive anywhere in Aus in it – that was how dependable it was.
I read a lot on PH about how great various fast cars are, and how spaciously they accommodate a family of four whilst only needing major maintenance every other year, providing something else hasn’t failed. Anyhow the advice is always to get a warranty of some sorts. With this car, that’s just not necessary. Sure, 0-62 in around 6s isn’t as quick as many, though certainly quick enough to surprise, and a cruising average of 32mpg is not miserly. But the urban assault to which this car has been regularly subjected, and then been asked to haul us all away in 40C, with bushfires raging, has cemented the idea there is more to a great family car than numbers and badges.
Servicing has been roughly by the book – minor services every 10,000km, which has been about 8-10 months. The two major services are the All Fluids and the Timing Belts – a total of about $2,200 for those two. And nothing else has happened. Well…
As I put it up for sale, it had a tantie. It was like the perfect dinner guest, who brings great wine, provides lively chat, and wants to help, who then spills red wine all over the new cream carpet on their way out of the door. Yep, two days after the ad went up, the clutch fork snapped. A tow later to the local clutch specialist, a week before Christmas, had me on the road just a day and $1800 later. Clutch itself was about 60% worn. Towing dude remarks how few Subes he has to collect…
But that has seriously been it. In four years and 50,000 kms of carting a family around a major city, and on hot cross-country road trips. No EML suddenly lighting up, no going into limp mode, no blown head gaskets, nothing.
When the new owner turned up to collect, even the kids went out to wave the car goodbye
So, the replacement has some big shoes to fill. Luckily it’s a big car, with a fairly big engine, so I think it’ll give it a go.
But the main gist of owning this car has been one of a comfortable, swift, spacious, secure, fun, reliable wagon with room for five, albeit one with, ahem, awkward looks. The drivers ergonomics are spot on – wheel and pedals dead straight ahead, gearstick in the right place for the left hand, clear dials, good view through the windows. I love the way it just fits me - the seat is the right size, the steering wheel (all Subaru wheels are made by MOMO) is perfect in size and rim thickness - which makes it so much easier to flick around.
The interior of Subarus gets a lot of flak on here. They may have the design flair of a cave, and the plastics of this era (this was designed during the fun times of 2008…) are probably not the softest. But it all works, none of it squeaks and none of it is peeling in the strong Aussie sun. The leather seats are unmarked – the guy who just bought it couldn’t believe the seats are 8 years old and have had a young family bounce around them for the last 4 years.
The ride is firm’ish, on 18”wheels with Bilstein shocks as standard, but could still lean a lot in tight corners. Grip was almost neverending on broad sweeping bends, and a set of PS4 all round helped enormously. Wet weather went unnoticed.
The engine was flexible and far torquier than the 2.0T of before, but whilst it span sweetly enough to the 6500 cutout, it didn’t feel as much fun. The sound was more sterile and flat, which was a shame.
However, it was still fun when I wanted to play. The 6MT box was a good match and easy to use, once warm, the engine pulled from tickover, but boost got going properly around 2600rpm. I liked that if I found myself on a fun road section, I could just enjoy it there and then. I didn’t have to go home to get the fun car – I don’t have time for that – it answered the one-car-to-do-it-all brief.
For much of its time with us it shared the driveway with a Mk6 Golf GTI and a 928S4. Taking the Sube never felt like being shortchanged, and if it was raining, it was the obvious choice.
Cross-country, 5-up, with bikes on the roof were an easy cruise. We managed several trips of 2-3000km, and I wouldn’t have hesitated to load us up and drive anywhere in Aus in it – that was how dependable it was.
I read a lot on PH about how great various fast cars are, and how spaciously they accommodate a family of four whilst only needing major maintenance every other year, providing something else hasn’t failed. Anyhow the advice is always to get a warranty of some sorts. With this car, that’s just not necessary. Sure, 0-62 in around 6s isn’t as quick as many, though certainly quick enough to surprise, and a cruising average of 32mpg is not miserly. But the urban assault to which this car has been regularly subjected, and then been asked to haul us all away in 40C, with bushfires raging, has cemented the idea there is more to a great family car than numbers and badges.
Servicing has been roughly by the book – minor services every 10,000km, which has been about 8-10 months. The two major services are the All Fluids and the Timing Belts – a total of about $2,200 for those two. And nothing else has happened. Well…
As I put it up for sale, it had a tantie. It was like the perfect dinner guest, who brings great wine, provides lively chat, and wants to help, who then spills red wine all over the new cream carpet on their way out of the door. Yep, two days after the ad went up, the clutch fork snapped. A tow later to the local clutch specialist, a week before Christmas, had me on the road just a day and $1800 later. Clutch itself was about 60% worn. Towing dude remarks how few Subes he has to collect…
But that has seriously been it. In four years and 50,000 kms of carting a family around a major city, and on hot cross-country road trips. No EML suddenly lighting up, no going into limp mode, no blown head gaskets, nothing.
When the new owner turned up to collect, even the kids went out to wave the car goodbye
So, the replacement has some big shoes to fill. Luckily it’s a big car, with a fairly big engine, so I think it’ll give it a go.
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