SOMEmight say that the Subaru Outback is expensive compared to rivals but when reliability is this good and you get a five year warranty, it's worth paying the extra.

What you get for your money is a smooth riding, spacious estate with real mud and snow capability from its standard four wheel drive making perhaps the best towcar on the market.

Raised ride height means that it is capable of serious field work. Why do you think they have always been so popular with farmers and landowners?

I drove the 2.0-litre flat four diesel SE, which has plenty of power for good acceleration and also manages 50mpg on the government cycle.

That equates to a real 38 to 42mpg, which is excellent for such a big car, helped by a long geared six-speed gearbox with an easy and slick change.

Mid-range urge is great and, while it's not the fastest thing on the road, there's enough for normal road overtaking.

Comfort is excellent over all surfaces - even at slow speeds in town - and road holding, surprisingly for such a car, is also very good.

Handling is safe and sure, but there's less feedback from the steering than I would like.

It cruises easily and quietly at normal motorway speeds, and I found it very capable in muddy off-road conditions, where it didn't put a wheel wrong.

There's plenty of space for five, with excellent rear legroom and a huge boot. The driving position is very good for most, with plenty of electric adjustment for the heated front seats, which hold and support beautifully.