THE Subaru Legacy Tourer reminds me of a lolloping old dog that never gives up until he's dead on his feet.

This is not a car to excite the senses like the rip-snorting, fire-breathing Impreza WRX but as a huge variety of country dwellers have known for many years, cars don't come much tougher, more capable or more comfortable.

And none of the opposition can come close to Subaru's customer satisfaction and superb reliability.

The entry 2.5 petrol model I drove comes loaded with kit and with a standard six-speed automatic gearbox.

Performance is not startling, but is more than adequate for almost every need and of course permanent four wheel drive means you will keep going in tough conditions that leave others foundering.

The diesel 2.0-litre Legacy might seem a better bet, but the price is higher and the automatic gearbox an expensive extra.

The petrol engine is smoother and quieter and the road holding and handling are very good, like all the saloons and estates in the range.

As I have said, it comes loaded with kit, including very comfortable multi-adjustable seats, climate control, eight airbags, a superb sound system, MP3 connection and Bluetooth.

There is loads of interior space for five, with plenty of rear legroom, the boot is an excellent size, and of course the rear seats fold to make a small removal wagon.