*Gravedig!*
Giant's Maestro rear suspension system has always been one of the most efficient available since its introduction in 2005 (for '06-model bikes). Newer models have only undergone minor changes, and even 6 years on, the original models are still right up there for efficiency, outperforming many newer designs. I'd still be riding my '08 Anthem (same frame as this one) if it hadn't developed cracks.
The '12 model frame that replaced it doesn't perform noticeably differently in the back end, and is still brilliant compared to other bikes, which just reinforces how good the earlier model still is.