Best features
- Handling
- Comfort
- Build quality and finish
- Security
The principal players in the prestige market this year, all Japanese brands, are a diverse lot. Mazda6 MPS is sporty, Honda Accord V6 tilts towards comfort and the winning Subaru Liberty 3.0R walks a fine line between opulence and driveability.
The foundation for Liberty’s first placing is found in design and function where it gains top marks in admired areas such as safety, comfort and build quality. Strong performances in security and ergonomics enhance its credentials and there is a decent amount of interior and boot room.
It is a mixed bag on value for the Liberty this year with a rosier outlook on depreciation costs but a dip in fuel economy scores.
Liberty’s 3.0-litre boxer engine is a vigorous performer backed by a smooth box. It is a free spirit on handling with communicative steering plus plenty of all-wheel-drive grip and balance. Its ride, brakes and smoothness surpass the class standard. Liberty also profi ts from turmoil created by new additions.
Honda’s hopes of a third win with an underrated car were hurt by a fall in its standard features score and a pinch on its performance credentials.
The Accord drivetrain, while still impressive and smooth, is no longer a premier pick. It also lacks a sequential auto.
On the flip side, the Accord is more affordable courtesy of free trade links with Thailand, while the V6 running and repair costs and environment scores are even more competitive. This Honda is still a worthwhile option for buyers who want pampering at a lower cost.
The manual-only MPS, an all-wheel-drive turbo-charged version of the Mazda6 sedan, makes waves in the class. Its traits include seamless turbo performance and a sharp gearbox/clutch combination. It is distinctive too for its high handling threshold, brilliant brakes and fine finish.
Sporty seats and a likeable layout spoil drivers. They’ll be less loyal about the high price tag, depressing depreciation forecast and pricey petrol prospects. | 
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