It is a bit of a mixed picture when it comes to Subaru Outback running costs. While fuel economy is good on the 2.0D with 44mpg, the petrols are less impressive with the 3.6-litre engine returning just 28mpg – although that’s not bad for a four-wheel drive car producing 260bhp.

Subaru servicing is good value for money and the dealers have a strong reputation for customer care – one of the reasons so many Subaru owners are loyal to the brand.

To keep repair costs down, impact-absorbing crash boxes are installed behind the front bumper and collisions of approximately 9mph or less can be absorbed without affecting the main body. Each part of the radiator is attached by bolts, rather than welding, making parts replacement during repair easier, quicker and cheaper.

Insurance costs are about average at group 21 and 22 for the diesels going up to a more pricey 29 for the 3.6R.

Despite having a diesel engine, the Outback still fares quite poorly on the environmental front, so don’t expect Subaru Outback emissions to be anything to write home about.

It’s not helped by having two thirsty petrols with high CO2 emissions – the 3.6-litre emitting 232g/km. The 2.0D is more acceptable, it puts out 167g/km of CO2 and averages 44mpg – that’s better than the less powerful 2.0 TDI in the Skoda Octavia Scout.

Subaru has an excellent track record for build quality and reliability, a reputation reinforced by the brands many achievements in rallying. The previous Outback was robust and durable and the latest Subaru Outback reliability record should be just as blemish free.