Subaru Liberty X: high-riding sedan added to updated 2013 range

The Subaru Liberty X, confirmed back in April, is only available as a sedan, with the $44,490 123kW/229Nm Subaru Liberty 2.5X paired exclusively with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and the $55,990 191kW/350Nm Liberty 3.6X only fitted with a five-speed automatic transmission.

The 2013 Subaru Liberty X sees a newly designed grille and front bumper, new side skirts, a tweaked rear bumper and new silver 18-inch alloy wheels (gunmetal on 3.6X) along with the extra 50mm of ground clearance, now totalling 200mm – only 13mm off the Subaru Outback.

Both models feature Subaru's 'EyeSight' driver assist system along with a reversing camera, leather trim with heated front seats, satellite navigation, auto lights and wipers, and Bluetooth and USB connectivity.

The Liberty 3.6X also gains chrome door handles and a chrome boot garnish, unique door and dashboard trim details for the interior and SI-Drive – making switching between three different driving modes possible.

Explaining the addition of a raised sedan from a brand synonymous with higher-riding SUV platforms, Subaru Australia managing director Nick Senior said, "The ease of entry and exit of our SUVs has always been a key selling point and we have now been able to incorporate this into a sedan, for those who prefer that body style."

The rest of the updated 2013 Subaru Liberty line-up will be revealed later this year.