Competition is very keen in the beefed-up all-wheel-drive estate car sector, but the Subaru Outback has some aces to play – it is more capable off-road, is roomier and is much cheaper than main rivals – all key factors in challenging category.

Outback prices start at £27,995 and while there is a choice of only two engines, a 2.5 litre petrol or a 2.0 litre diesel, they are both excellent performers. And while there are also only two trim levels, both are exceptionally well equipped.

Standard SE models come with automatic LED headlamps, cruise control, Active Torque Vectoring, 17-inch alloy wheels, electrically adjustable driver’s seat and tinted windows, as well as a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with sat-nav, Bluetooth and a rear view camera.

The SE Premium models add a sunroof, keyless entry and pushbutton start, larger 18-inch alloys, leather seats and a powered rear tailgate.

My recent test model was an SE Premium with the 148 hp diesel engine, costing £30,995 and fitted with the optional seven-speed CVT auto transmission. The 0-60 mph time of 9.7 seconds is quite nippy, top speed is 124 mph and fuel economy 50.4 mpg combined.

The Outback’s latest styling look sleek and classy, and more formidable than some rivals, and its superior image is underlined by its off-road capability.

Underway, the Outback is very composed, with stiffened suspension and revised dampers minimising body roll and delivering composed cornering and still decent ride quality. Acceleration is smooth and refined, the CVT gearbox well-spaced for seamless changes, and there is great all-round visibility.

The dashboard is smart-looking with a functional layout. The cabin has plenty of stowage spaces and the boot is big at 512 litres, boosted to a van-like 2,000 litres with the seats down. The Outback impresses from all aspects and given Subaru’s outstanding record for dependability, it is a hard package to beat.