THE range topping Subaru Legacy is a marvellous car for many reasons.

The company's premier brand name is the Impreza of course, with all the rallying razzamatazz that goes with the top feisty turbocharged models.

But the Legacy is more subtle and relaxed while still managing superb handling and road-holding helped by its permanent four-wheel-drive.

Even with that four-wheel-drive, the many were cheaper new than rivals' two-wheel-drive models and they also hold value better so good, cheap ones are quite hard to find.

Owners love them and in one JD power satisfaction survey, the marque came out number one.

The last series is right up there with the very best in almost every way. Petrol engines are 2.0 and 2.5-litre flat fours and a 3.0-litre flat six, and there is also an excellent 2.0-litre flat four diesel.

All engines are available in both stylish saloon and load lugger estate and Outback models have raised suspension for better rough terrain ability.

The light easy clutch compliments a slick changing gearbox and the brakes are well up to holding everything in check.

There is room for five in comfort, the boot is big and standard equipment is very generous.