With the unveiling of the seventh generation Subaru Liberty at the 2019 Chicago Auto Show, drivers around the world have started to ask about local specifications. Here in Australia, we’ve yet to have official confirmation of the 2020 Subaru Liberty for sale, yet it is a possibility. So, here we’ll look into this model in more detail.
The Uncertainty
The 2020 Subaru Liberty is stylistically similar to the previous Liberty, but there are a higher quality interior, a new four-cylinder 2.4-litre engine and more technology. Unfortunately, there is a cloud hanging over the right-hand drive production, which is why this model is a possibility rather than a confirmed model for the local market. According to Subaru HQ, the local release is “unconfirmed at this time.”
The New Platform
The new Subaru Liberty is based on the Subaru Global Architecture (SGA) platform that has been used for the new Impreza, XV, and Forester. Subaru HQ claims that this platform will make the 2020 Liberty better riding and more dynamic than previous models. This is due to a 13 per cent increase int he ultra-high tensile strength steel and a massive 371 per cent increase in the structural adhesive when compared to the Impreza. This has resulted in a body that is 70 per cent stiffer, creating an “evolutionary” exterior. The overall increase in the vehicle length has allowed growth in the boot floor. This means that North American spec models have a 428-litre boot, but the current Australian variants have 493 litres. This is likely to be due to the smaller spare tyre in Australian models.
Inside the Cabin
Inside, there has been an upmarket upgrade with higher-grade models offered with Nappa leather upholstery, leather dash inserts and a massive 11.6-inch touchscreen running the Subaru Starlink software. The infotainment system also provides sat-nav, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and digital radio. The screen also incorporates the dual-zone climate control. All models in the U.S range feature the Subaru EyeSight system of active safety features including lane keep assist, autonomous emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control.
The new front camera system offers 180-degree visibility, and automatic reverse brakes are a first on the Liberty after they had a debut on the Forester, Impreza, and Crosstrek.
The New Engines
The new platform means that the 2020 Subaru Liberty features new engines. The current six-cylinder 3.6-litre engine has been replaced with a new turbo 2.4-litre engine that is capable of a zero to 97 kilometres per hour (60 miles per hour) rate of 6.1 seconds, which is 2.3 seconds faster than the base model 2.5 litre engine. This engine should also be more efficient than the 3.6R, which is rated at 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres on a combined cycle.
If you are interested to learn more about the new Subaru Liberty for sale, be sure to speak to us. The Perth City Subaru sales team is available to answer any queries about the Subaru Liberty or arrange your test drive.