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2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000
 
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Subaru Liberty 2.5i
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The tide turned in this year's battle of the more expensive mid-sized cars, with Subaru's Liberty 2.5i holding off strong challenges from Mazda's 6 and Honda's Accord Euro. Over the years, the Liberty has been a good, all-round package, and the current model is no exception. A consistently good performer on the road, with high rankings in all areas from smoothness and quietness right through to handling, the Liberty does what's required of a quality mid-sized car without any fuss. But the area of design and function was where Liberty really rammed home its advantage. In particular, the Subaru etched out a clear lead in safety, due to gains in its New Car Assessment Program crash ratings. This combined with a maximum score in security, courtesy of a top anti-theft package now including Datadots, to push the car's nose in front in the race for this year's title. A comparatively good score under our environmental 'emissions' criteria, top-shelf build quality, good seat comfort, user-friendly ergonomics, handy space and above average practicality rounded out the vehicle's strong design and function credentials. As soon as you turn the key and tackle some roads, you start to appreciate the Subaru's well-balanced ride and handling package, boosted by all-wheel-drive. And the Liberty is just as much at home cruising on the highway, where its refined cabin and smooth engine and transmission combination make touring a pleasure. Liberty also improved a little on its 2003 fuel consumption rating. The only softening in its scores from last year came in the area of depreciation, and its running and repair costs continue to be higher than those of most other vehicles in the class. Last year's winner the Mazda6 also polled well. Keener pricing, better depreciation and running and repair costs and slightly better ergonomics were its advantages over Liberty, but it trailed the victor in four areas, most of them weighted either high or critical by car buyers. Honda's Accord Euro was also within striking distance of the top of the podium. It shaded the Liberty in depreciation, gained also in running and repair costs, ergonomics and engine performance (where it is best in the class). But it lost valuable ground in security and practicality. All three cars are good packages, but there can only be one winner - the Liberty.
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