Hello all. I just made this account with the purpose of talking to the most informed people who can help answer my questions. I am a 19 year old Victorian P-plate driver who is looking to upgrade the family's 2012 Fiesta Zetec to something a bit more sporty. The Liberty 3.0R (post-facelift, 2007) is one of the cars in my shortlist so I had a few questions to ask before going any further into looking at one.
1. How fuel efficient is it? The official figure is something like 12.5l/100km but I have heard it may be better than that. Also, how much does the economy mode of SI-drive help with this?
2. Is it too powerful for a younger driver or quick enough to be enjoyable yet manageable? (I feel I am a reasonable sensible driver btw compared to my friends at least)
3. How expensive are services/repairs? Examples would be great. I live in Melbourne so I suspect there are a few good independents around who will be cheaper than dealerships too.
4. How firm is the ride on the Spec-B? I have heard mixed things but I haven't driven many cars so I don't have much of a reference myself.
5. What is it like to drive? Does it feel nimble like a hot hatch or big like a Falcon? I'd prefer to drive a car which feels agile rather than heavy.
6. Which is better, the auto or the manual? I have heard the manual is better being a short-shifter and STI-derived in the Spec-B but also "notchy" (still not sure exactly what this means so an explanation would be appreciated). I don't mind much either way.
If you can help me out with any of these questions, that would be amazing. Another option is the 2.5i but I do feel it's a bit underpowered to be worth buying over a sporty hatch. If you have any suggestions, I'd appreciate that too. I know that as Liberty owners some of your opinions may be a bit biased but remember that I am only 19 and looking for my first car so bear that in mind too
