This Outback hasn’t been crash tested by Euro NCAP, but the Legacy Tourer, on which it is based, was awarded the maximum five star rating in official tests.

This result came under the new stricter regime, introduced in 2009, which is one overall score taking into account not only adult occupant safety but also child and pedestrian protection along with a rear impact whiplash test. So it would be a good assumption that the Subaru Outback safety levels are just as good.

There’s a high level of safety equipment including front seats with significantly stiffer frames, designed to provide protection against whiplash injuries. Front, side and curtain airbags are standard on all models along with dynamic stability control (known as VDC) and all-wheel drive.

Thanks to a wide boot floor and impressive luggage room of 526 litres – more than a Volvo XC70 and larger than its predecessor – the Outback is great for families or as a workhorse.

There’s no boot lip, so loading heavy or large objects is much easier, while the rear seats flip down in one motion with the simple pull of a lever located in the boot. There’s also extra storage under the boot floor.

Also boosting Subaru Outback practicality is self-levelling suspension, which comes as standard, making it ideal for towing trailers and caravans or for carrying heavier items, along with a hill-start assist system.

In the cabin there’s decent storage with reasonable door pockets that can accommodate a 500ml drinks bottle, a large central cubby with an armrest and a glovebox that can hold 31 CDs.