Subaru Liberty vs Impreza Australia: Which Is Better?

Choosing between the Subaru Liberty and Subaru Impreza in Australia can be surprisingly difficult. Both cars have earned a reputation for all-wheel-drive capability, practical engineering, comfortable driving and the distinctive Subaru Boxer engine. However, they appeal to different types of Australian drivers.

The Subaru Liberty is a larger, more traditional mid-size sedan designed for comfortable highway cruising and family transport. The Subaru Impreza is a smaller, more manoeuvrable vehicle that focuses on everyday practicality, urban driving and modern technology.

There is also an important difference in availability. Subaru discontinued the Liberty in Australia in 2020, meaning buyers now need to explore the used-car market. The Impreza remains available as a new vehicle, with the 2026 Australian range offering updated technology and safety equipment.

So, which Subaru should we choose?

In this detailed Subaru Liberty vs Impreza Australia comparison, we'll examine performance, reliability, fuel consumption, interior space, ownership costs, safety and overall value to determine which model makes the most sense.

Subaru Liberty vs Impreza: Quick Comparison

Before exploring the differences, let's look at how a late-model Subaru Liberty compares with the 2026 Subaru Impreza.

Specifications refer to Australian-market models. Liberty figures represent the final generation, while Impreza figures represent MY26.

The Liberty has clear advantages in cabin size, boot capacity and available engine performance. Meanwhile, the Impreza offers newer safety technology, easier parking and the option of buying a brand-new vehicle.

Neither car wins every category.

What Is the Difference Between the Subaru Liberty and Impreza?

The most significant difference is their size and intended purpose.

Subaru Liberty: A Comfortable Family Sedan

The Subaru Liberty was positioned as a mid-size passenger car competing with vehicles such as the Toyota Camry, Mazda6 and Volkswagen Passat.

Its main strengths include a spacious interior, comfortable seating, stable highway performance and a relatively large boot.

The Liberty became particularly popular among Australian drivers who wanted the practicality of a family car without moving to an SUV.

Later Australian models featured naturally aspirated Boxer engines, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and continuously variable automatic transmissions.

The 3.6R version also provided significantly stronger performance than the standard four-cylinder model.

Subaru Impreza: A Practical Compact Car

The Subaru Impreza is designed for drivers who prefer a smaller vehicle.

Its compact dimensions make it better suited to urban environments, including Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, where parking spaces and narrow streets can be challenging.

The 2026 Impreza is sold in Australia as a five-door hatchback.

Its key advantages include modern driver-assistance technology, a flexible cargo area, contemporary infotainment and a smaller turning circle.

Importantly, the modern Impreza should not be confused with the Subaru WRX. Although the WRX developed from the Impreza family, the current standard Impreza is primarily designed for comfortable everyday driving rather than high-performance motoring.

Subaru Liberty vs Impreza Engine Performance

Engine performance is one of the areas where the two vehicles differ most noticeably.

Subaru Liberty 2.5L Boxer Engine

The final-generation Australian Subaru Liberty offered a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder Boxer engine.

Its specifications include:

• Maximum power: 129 kW
• Maximum torque: 235 Nm
• Transmission: Lineartronic CVT
• Drivetrain: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
• Combined fuel consumption: 7.3 L/100 km

This engine delivers adequate performance for regular commuting, suburban roads and long-distance highway driving.

Because the Liberty is relatively heavy, acceleration is not particularly sporty. Nevertheless, the additional torque compared with the Impreza provides useful flexibility when carrying passengers or travelling with luggage.

For most Australian families, the 2.5-litre Liberty offers a sensible compromise between performance and fuel consumption.

Subaru Liberty 3.6R Boxer Engine

The Liberty 3.6R is considerably more powerful.

Its naturally aspirated six-cylinder Boxer engine produces:

• Maximum power: 191 kW
• Maximum torque: 350 Nm
• Transmission: Lineartronic CVT
• Drivetrain: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
• Combined fuel consumption: 9.9 L/100 km

The difference is noticeable when accelerating onto highways, overtaking slower vehicles or climbing steep roads.

The six-cylinder engine also provides smoother power delivery and a more effortless driving experience.

However, the 3.6R consumes considerably more fuel than the four-cylinder Liberty.

Australian buyers considering a used 3.6R should balance its stronger performance against higher running costs.

Subaru Impreza 2.0L Boxer Engine

The 2026 Subaru Impreza uses a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder Boxer engine producing:

• Maximum power: 115 kW
• Maximum torque: 196 Nm
• Transmission: Lineartronic CVT
• Drivetrain: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
• Combined fuel consumption: 7.5 L/100 km

The Impreza delivers smooth and predictable performance during normal driving.

It is particularly suited to commuting, shopping trips and everyday urban travel.

However, drivers expecting rapid acceleration may find the naturally aspirated engine somewhat modest, particularly when overtaking or travelling uphill with a full load.

Which Subaru Has the Better Engine?

The answer depends on our priorities.

For outright performance, the Liberty 3.6R wins comfortably.

For everyday driving with reasonable fuel consumption, both the Liberty 2.5i and Impreza 2.0L are sensible choices.

The Liberty 2.5i offers slightly more power and torque, while the newer Impreza combines its engine with a smaller body and modern vehicle technology.

Subaru Liberty vs Impreza Fuel Consumption Australia

Fuel economy is especially important for Australian motorists who regularly commute or travel long distances.

Interestingly, the larger Liberty 2.5i has a slightly lower official combined fuel consumption figure than the newer Impreza.

These are manufacturer-rated combined-cycle figures. Actual consumption depends on driving conditions, tyres, vehicle condition, traffic and driving style.

Why Doesn't the Smaller Impreza Use Less Fuel?

It might seem unusual that a smaller 2.0-litre vehicle can consume slightly more fuel than a larger 2.5-litre sedan.

However, engine capacity and vehicle size are only part of the equation.

Several factors influence fuel consumption:

• Engine tuning and efficiency
• Gearbox calibration
• Vehicle weight
• Aerodynamics
• All-wheel-drive system
• Road and traffic conditions
• Driving habits

Neither vehicle uses the type of fuel-saving hybrid system found in some competing passenger cars.

Their permanent availability of all-wheel-drive traction is a major attraction, but it also contributes to mechanical complexity and energy consumption.

Annual Fuel Cost Comparison

Let's calculate an example using 15,000 kilometres of driving per year and an illustrative petrol price of AUD $2.00 per litre.

The difference between the Liberty 2.5i and Impreza 2.0L is surprisingly small.

According to these official figures, the Liberty 2.5i would actually cost approximately $60 less per year in fuel.

The Liberty 3.6R, however, would cost around $720 more annually than the Impreza.

These calculations are illustrative rather than forecasts. Petrol prices vary throughout Australia, and real-world consumption may differ substantially from official ratings.

Fuel economy winner: The Liberty 2.5i narrowly wins on the official combined figures, although the difference is too small to make fuel economy alone a decisive purchasing factor.

Subaru Liberty vs Impreza Dimensions

Vehicle dimensions affect parking, passenger comfort, visibility and everyday convenience.

The Liberty is 310 mm longer and 60 mm wider than the Impreza.

That makes a meaningful difference when parking in tight spaces or navigating narrow urban streets.

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However, its larger footprint also contributes to a more spacious cabin.

Which Subaru Is Easier to Park?

The Impreza is generally the more convenient choice for crowded city environments.

Its shorter length and smaller turning circle make manoeuvring easier.

This can be useful in:

• Underground apartment car parks
• Shopping centre parking areas
• Narrow residential streets
• Busy city centres
• Tight parallel parking spaces

The Liberty is not unusually difficult to drive, but its dimensions are more noticeable in confined areas.

Parking winner: Subaru Impreza.

Subaru Liberty vs Impreza Interior Space

Interior comfort is a major consideration for anyone regularly carrying passengers.

Front Seat Comfort

Both vehicles provide supportive front seats and a driving position suitable for everyday commuting.

The Liberty feels more like a traditional long-distance touring sedan.

Its wider cabin and larger body offer a relaxed driving environment.

The Impreza has a more contemporary interior design, particularly in the latest generation.

However, the overall feeling is slightly more compact.

For drivers who spend considerable time travelling on Australian highways, the Liberty may feel more spacious.

Rear Passenger Space

The Liberty generally offers more generous rear passenger accommodation.

Its longer wheelbase helps provide additional room, particularly for adults travelling longer distances.

The Impreza remains practical for a compact hatchback, but families regularly carrying taller teenagers or adult passengers may appreciate the Liberty's dimensions.

Neither vehicle should be assumed to comfortably accommodate three adults across the rear seat for every journey. The centre seating position is typically less accommodating than the outer seats.

Which Is Better for Families?

If passenger comfort is the main priority, the Liberty is generally the better option.

However, the Impreza's hatchback design makes loading certain family items more convenient.

Parents should also compare child-seat installation, rear-door access and the fit of their actual pram before purchasing.

Subaru Liberty vs Impreza Boot Space

Cargo capacity represents one of the most noticeable differences.

The Subaru Liberty offers a 493-litre boot.

The 2026 Subaru Impreza has a 291-litre cargo area with its rear seats upright, expanding to 883 litres with the rear seats folded.

Why the Liberty Is Better for Luggage

The Liberty provides considerably more enclosed luggage capacity with all five seats available.

This makes it well suited to:

• Family holidays
• Airport transfers
• Large suitcases
• Shopping trips
• Weekend travel

Its separate boot also keeps luggage away from the passenger compartment.

Why the Impreza Can Be More Versatile

Although the Impreza has a smaller boot, its rear hatch creates a larger loading opening.

With the rear seats folded, it can accommodate bulky objects that may be difficult to fit through the Liberty's sedan boot opening.

For example, the Impreza may be more convenient for transporting flat-pack furniture or certain sporting equipment.

The distinction is straightforward: the Liberty is better for carrying luggage while retaining all passenger seats, while the Impreza offers more flexible loading for awkwardly shaped cargo.

Subaru Liberty vs Impreza Driving Experience

Both Subarus share important engineering characteristics, but their road manners feel different.

Highway Driving

The Liberty is particularly well suited to long-distance travel.

Its larger dimensions and relaxed character make it appealing for trips between cities.

For example, drivers regularly travelling between Sydney and Canberra or Melbourne and regional Victoria may appreciate the Liberty's comfortable cruising characteristics.

The 3.6R version offers an additional advantage when overtaking at highway speeds.

The Impreza remains stable and competent on highways, although its smaller engine may require more revs during demanding acceleration.

City Driving

The Impreza has the advantage in urban areas.

Its smaller dimensions make it easier to manage in traffic and parking environments.

The hatchback body also provides practical flexibility for everyday errands.

For drivers primarily travelling through metropolitan areas, the Impreza is probably the more convenient vehicle.

Cornering and Handling

Both vehicles benefit from Subaru's low-mounted Boxer engine configuration and all-wheel-drive layout.

The Impreza feels relatively compact and responsive when navigating bends.

The Liberty prioritises stability and predictable handling.

However, neither standard vehicle should be treated as a dedicated performance car.

The condition and quality of the tyres, suspension and brakes can make a substantial difference, especially when comparing a newer Impreza with an older Liberty.

Subaru Liberty vs Impreza All-Wheel Drive

One of Subaru's strongest selling points in Australia is its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive technology.

Both vehicles use AWD systems designed to provide traction across changing road conditions.

This can be particularly valuable during:

• Wet weather
• Slippery road conditions
• Gravel-road driving
• Highway travel during heavy rain

In regions where weather conditions change quickly, AWD can provide additional confidence.

However, AWD does not eliminate the importance of suitable tyres, safe driving speeds or adequate braking distance.

Which Subaru Is Better on Rough Australian Roads?

The final-generation Liberty has approximately 150 mm of ground clearance, compared with 130 mm for the MY26 Impreza.

This gives the Liberty a small advantage when travelling over uneven surfaces.

Neither vehicle is a dedicated off-road model.

For frequent travel over heavily rutted tracks, steep driveways or unsealed roads with significant obstacles, an SUV such as the Subaru Forester or Crosstrek may be more appropriate.

Subaru Liberty vs Impreza Reliability

Reliability is one of the most important considerations, particularly because the Liberty is now available only as a used vehicle.

Both nameplates have an established presence in Australia, and well-maintained examples can provide many years of useful service.

Nevertheless, reliability depends heavily on model year, maintenance history and individual vehicle condition.

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Subaru Liberty Reliability

The final-generation Liberty uses established Subaru mechanical components.

The naturally aspirated 2.5-litre and 3.6-litre engines avoid some of the additional complexity associated with turbocharged engines.

However, older vehicles may require age-related maintenance.

Potential areas worth inspecting include:

• Engine oil leaks or seepage
• Cooling system condition
• CVT operation and service history
• Suspension bushes and shock absorbers
• Wheel bearings
• Electrical accessories
• Battery condition

These are inspection priorities, not a claim that every Liberty suffers from these problems.

A vehicle with documented servicing and consistent maintenance is generally preferable to one with an uncertain history.

Subaru Impreza Reliability

The current-generation Impreza uses Subaru's naturally aspirated 2.0-litre Boxer engine and CVT transmission.

Its relatively conventional powertrain is an advantage for buyers who prefer to avoid turbocharging.

However, the latest generation is still comparatively young, so its long-term reliability over very high kilometre totals is not yet as well established.

For a used Impreza, we should inspect:

• Service records
• Engine oil condition
• CVT smoothness
• Cooling system
• Steering and suspension
• AWD system operation
• Electronic safety systems

A new Impreza also offers the reassurance of a manufacturer's warranty.

Is the Subaru Liberty More Reliable Than the Impreza?

There is no universal winner.

The Liberty benefits from a longer record of real-world ownership, but every example is now older.

The Impreza benefits from newer components and, when purchased new, warranty coverage.

For buyers who want to minimise the risk of unexpected age-related repairs, a new Impreza is generally the safer financial proposition.

For those comfortable buying used, a carefully inspected Liberty can still be a worthwhile option.

Subaru Liberty vs Impreza CVT Transmission

Both vehicles use Subaru's Lineartronic continuously variable automatic transmission.

Unlike a conventional automatic transmission with a fixed number of physical gears, a CVT can vary its effective gear ratio continuously.

Advantages of Subaru's CVT

The principal benefits include smooth acceleration, relaxed cruising and the ability to keep the engine operating efficiently.

For daily commuting, the transmission generally suits the character of both vehicles.

What Should Used Buyers Check?

When testing a used Liberty or Impreza, pay attention to unusual shuddering, hesitation, vibration, warning lights or abnormal noises.

A properly functioning CVT should operate smoothly under normal conditions.

We should also check whether required inspections and maintenance have been completed.

For an older Liberty, consider obtaining a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic familiar with Subaru vehicles and their transmissions.

Subaru Liberty vs Impreza Safety

Safety technology has advanced significantly over recent years.

Both models offer important safety equipment, but the newer Impreza benefits from more recent engineering and driver-assistance developments.

Subaru Liberty Safety Features

Late-model Liberty variants offered features such as:

• Subaru EyeSight driver assistance
• Autonomous emergency braking
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane departure warning
• Reversing camera
• Multiple airbags

Some additional driver-assistance features depend on the version and model year.

The final-generation Liberty received a five-star ANCAP rating under the testing criteria applicable at the time.

Subaru Impreza Safety Features

The updated Impreza offers modern safety technologies, including autonomous emergency braking and lane-support systems.

The MY25-onward Impreza earned a five-star ANCAP rating under substantially newer testing criteria.

Importantly, the rating applies to eligible vehicles built from April 2025 and sold from June 2025 following safety-related updates. Earlier examples of the sixth-generation Impreza should not automatically be assumed to carry the same rating.

Which Subaru Is Safer?

The newer Impreza has a clear advantage in the recency of its safety assessment and driver-assistance technology.

However, ANCAP results from different testing years cannot be directly compared simply by counting stars.

A well-maintained Liberty still offers meaningful safety equipment, while buyers prioritising the latest active safety systems will generally prefer the newer Impreza.

Modern safety technology winner: Subaru Impreza.

Subaru Liberty vs Impreza Technology

Technology is another area where the difference in vehicle age becomes noticeable.

Liberty Infotainment and Equipment

Late-model Liberty vehicles offered touchscreen infotainment, smartphone connectivity and various comfort features.

Depending on the trim, buyers may find leather-appointed seats, premium audio, electrically adjustable seating and other conveniences.

Higher-specification Liberty models can therefore feel surprisingly well equipped.

However, their infotainment interfaces and displays naturally reflect an older generation of vehicle technology.

Impreza Infotainment and Equipment

The MY26 Impreza offers a more contemporary cabin with a large, portrait-oriented central touchscreen and modern connectivity features.

Equipment varies between the AWD 2.0L and AWD 2.0S variants.

The newer system generally provides a more modern interface, although drivers who prefer conventional physical controls may not consider every touchscreen function an improvement.

For technology-focused buyers, the Impreza has the advantage.

Subaru Liberty vs Impreza Running Costs

Fuel consumption is only one component of vehicle ownership costs.

We also need to consider servicing, insurance, tyres, registration and repairs.

Servicing Costs

The 2026 Impreza uses a scheduled servicing interval of 12 months or 15,000 kilometres, whichever comes first.

The final-generation Liberty generally used a shorter service schedule of six months or 12,500 kilometres.

This can make the Liberty less convenient for owners who prefer fewer workshop visits.

Actual servicing costs depend on the vehicle, the required work and the service provider.

Insurance Costs

Insurance premiums vary substantially across Australia.

Factors influencing prices include:

• Driver age
• Driving history
• Postcode
• Vehicle value
• Agreed or market value
• Annual kilometres
• Excess selected
• Insurance coverage

A used Liberty may have a lower insured value than a new Impreza, potentially reducing certain insurance costs.

However, the more powerful Liberty 3.6R may attract different premiums.

The best approach is to obtain insurance quotations for the exact vehicles before making a purchase.

Tyres and Replacement Parts

Both vehicles use conventional passenger-car tyre sizes, although wheel and tyre dimensions differ between variants.

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The Impreza AWD 2.0S, for example, uses larger wheels than the base AWD 2.0L.

Replacement tyre costs depend on the size, manufacturer and performance characteristics.

The Liberty's older age may also result in more frequent replacement of suspension, cooling or electrical components.

Subaru Liberty vs Impreza Price in Australia

Price is an important difference because these vehicles occupy different parts of the market.

Used Subaru Liberty Prices

A 2020 Subaru Liberty can represent excellent used-car value.

Indicative Australian market guides place many 2020 examples around the high-teens to mid-$20,000 range, depending on variant and condition.

Higher-mileage examples, older model years and private sales may cost less.

However, buyers should remember that used-car prices depend on service history, accident history, kilometres and local demand.

New Subaru Impreza Prices

For MY26, Subaru Australia's indicative starting prices include:

Drive-away pricing varies according to location and associated charges.

As an example, Subaru's published Sydney-based recommended drive-away starting prices are approximately $36,490 and $43,990 respectively.

Prices and availability should always be confirmed before ordering.

Which Offers Better Value?

The Liberty can offer more passenger space and a larger engine for significantly less money than a new Impreza.

However, a lower purchase price does not automatically mean lower total ownership costs.

A new Impreza reduces uncertainty surrounding previous maintenance and provides new-car warranty coverage.

Our choice should depend on both the purchase price and the likely costs of ownership over the next several years.

Subaru Liberty vs Impreza for Long-Distance Driving

Australia's geography makes long-distance comfort particularly relevant.

Drivers travelling regularly between major cities or into regional areas may value a comfortable cabin, a stable driving experience and good luggage capacity.

The Liberty is particularly appealing in these situations.

Its longer wheelbase, generous passenger accommodation and available 3.6-litre engine contribute to its touring character.

The Impreza is still fully capable of long-distance travel.

However, when the car is carrying several adults and their luggage, the Liberty has a practical advantage.

Long-distance touring winner: Subaru Liberty.

Subaru Liberty vs Impreza for City Driving

In urban environments, the priorities change.

Drivers often benefit more from compact dimensions, easier parking, modern driver assistance and flexible cargo loading.

The Impreza performs well in these areas.

Its smaller footprint makes it particularly practical for metropolitan commuting.

Its hatchback configuration also makes everyday loading convenient.

For drivers regularly travelling through Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth or Adelaide, the Impreza is an attractive option.

City driving winner: Subaru Impreza.

Should You Buy a Used Subaru Liberty or New Impreza?

This is perhaps the most important practical question.

A used Liberty and new Impreza can appeal to different buyers, even though they share the Subaru badge.

Choose a Used Subaru Liberty If:

• You want a larger and more spacious sedan.
• You regularly travel long distances.
• You need more boot space with all five seats occupied.
• You prefer the stronger performance of the 3.6R.
• You want to spend considerably less than the price of a new Impreza.
• You can find an example with comprehensive service records.

Choose a New Subaru Impreza If:

• You primarily drive in the city.
• You value modern safety technology.
• You want a manufacturer's warranty.
• You prefer a compact hatchback.
• You want a newer infotainment system.
• You are uncomfortable with the maintenance uncertainty of an older vehicle.

Neither choice is automatically superior.

The right answer depends on how we intend to use the vehicle.

Subaru Liberty vs Impreza: Pros and Cons

Subaru Liberty Advantages

The Liberty offers excellent passenger space, a relatively large boot, comfortable highway driving and an attractive second-hand purchase price.

Its 2.5-litre engine provides adequate everyday performance, while the 3.6R delivers substantially more power.

Subaru Liberty Disadvantages

The Liberty is no longer sold new in Australia, and the youngest examples are already several years old.

Used-car condition varies, its larger dimensions make parking less convenient, and the 3.6R's fuel consumption is relatively high.

Older examples may also require more maintenance than a new vehicle.

Subaru Impreza Advantages

The Impreza offers compact dimensions, modern active safety systems, current infotainment technology and new-car warranty coverage.

Its hatchback body provides practical flexibility, while the AWD system remains a distinctive advantage compared with many other small cars.

Subaru Impreza Disadvantages

The Impreza's boot is comparatively small with the rear seats upright.

Its naturally aspirated engine is not particularly powerful, and its fuel consumption is not especially low compared with some front-wheel-drive or hybrid competitors.

A new Impreza also costs substantially more upfront than many used Liberty examples.

Subaru Liberty vs Impreza: Which Wins Each Category?

The comparison reveals that neither Subaru is universally better.

The Liberty remains highly competitive in traditional passenger-car qualities, particularly spaciousness and highway comfort.

The Impreza offers a more modern ownership experience with the benefits of a current vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Subaru Liberty better than the Impreza?

The Subaru Liberty is generally better for buyers who prioritise interior space, boot capacity and long-distance comfort. The Impreza is better for urban driving, modern safety technology and buyers who want a new vehicle with warranty coverage. The ideal choice depends on driving needs and budget.

2. Is the Subaru Liberty more reliable than the Impreza?

Both vehicles can be reliable when properly maintained. However, the Liberty is now an older used vehicle, while a new Impreza benefits from newer components and warranty protection. A Liberty with a documented service history may still be an excellent purchase, but its individual condition is critical.

3. Which is more fuel-efficient, Subaru Liberty or Impreza?

According to official Australian combined-cycle figures, the 2020 Liberty 2.5i consumes 7.3 L/100 km compared with 7.5 L/100 km for the 2026 Impreza. The Liberty 3.6R consumes substantially more fuel at 9.9 L/100 km. Actual results depend on traffic, road conditions and driving habits.

4. Why did Subaru discontinue the Liberty in Australia?

Subaru discontinued the Liberty following declining demand for traditional mid-size sedans and growing consumer preference for SUVs. The model ended its Australian run in 2020 after more than three decades. Subaru continues to offer other passenger vehicles, including the Impreza and WRX, alongside its SUV range.

5. Is a used Subaru Liberty worth buying in Australia?

Yes, a used Subaru Liberty can be worthwhile for buyers seeking a spacious AWD sedan at a relatively affordable price. The 2.5i is a sensible choice for everyday driving, while the 3.6R appeals to drivers wanting more performance. However, buyers should prioritise service history, mechanical condition and an independent pre-purchase inspection.

Final Verdict: Subaru Liberty vs Impreza Australia

When comparing the Subaru Liberty vs Impreza in Australia, the better car depends on whether we prioritise traditional sedan comfort or modern compact-car convenience.

The Subaru Liberty remains an appealing used-car option. It offers generous passenger space, a large boot, confident AWD road manners and, in 3.6R form, considerably stronger engine performance.

For Australians who regularly travel long distances or want a comfortable family sedan without paying new-car prices, a well-maintained Liberty can represent excellent value.

The Subaru Impreza, however, is the more practical choice for drivers seeking a current-generation vehicle. Its smaller dimensions suit busy city environments, while modern safety systems, contemporary infotainment and new-car warranty coverage provide important advantages.

Our overall recommendation: Choose the Subaru Liberty 2.5i if you want an affordable, spacious used sedan with comfortable highway performance. Choose the Subaru Impreza if you prioritise easier everyday driving, newer technology and the reassurance of buying new.

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Ultimately, a carefully maintained Liberty can offer exceptional value, but for buyers who want fewer uncertainties and the benefits of modern engineering, the newer Subaru Impreza is the more straightforward choice.