Subaru reveals 2018 Liberty

The next Subaru Liberty sedan has been revealed in the US, sporting a subtle changes inside and out, plus revisions to the suspension, gearing and fuelling to refine the way it drives.

Expected to arrive in Australia by early 2018, the new-look Subaru (which is badged Legacy globally, except for Australia) features a re-sculpted snout, comprising sleeker headlight clusters with tiny barbs on the upper inside edges.

Integrated LED driving lights return and between the car's new-look 'eyes' is a slightly wider, reworked grille, underneath which sits a new-look front bumper featuring LED fog lights.

Swing around to the rear and Subaru's stylists have left things alone for the most part, including unchanged tail-lights. But the lower bumper has been reworked, providing a contemporary aesthetic with a few more curves and better exhaust outlet integration.

When we last reviewed the Subaru Liberty in mid-2016 we scored it 77/100, with one of our few criticisms being the low-rent interior and infotainment system.

This could be remedied with the 2018 Liberty update, which brings improved interior trim and an enhanced infotainment system. The dashboard is now offered with faux leather with overt stitching which adds an upmarket feel, and other little touches like a new-look clock have been added.

The touch-screen infotainment systems feature larger screen sizes -- up from 6.2- to 6.5-inch in base models and from 7.0- to 8.0-inch to premium grades. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality has been added, along with a faster CPU for the up-spec system.

Subaru Australia updated the Liberty in early 2016 with extra safety tech features, mild suspension (damping) upgrades and improved sound insulation, and the 2018 model is said to build on these changes with an even quieter cabin.

Mechanically the changes to the US model are minimal. Subaru will soldier on with its 2.5-litre four-cylinder and 3.6-litre six-cylinder boxer engines paired with automatic transmissions (CVT), the latter using updated internals to reduce noise entering the cabin.

Suspension tweaks for the US versions are expected to carry through to Aussie models, including retuned shock absorbers, "more linear response" from the electric power steering system and improved brake pedal feel.

These changes are designed to "enhance agility, steering and brake feel," says Subaru.

Two new colours are offered in the US: Magnetite Gray Metallic and Crimson Red Pearl.