The new Subaru Legacy arrived in dealers’ showrooms at the end of September.

Now in its fifth generation, Subaru hopes its revised Legacy will retain its popularity among those looking for a dependable estate while giving the styling an update that will broaden its appeal.

Expert guide editor Keith Collantine tested the latest Legacy on rural roads and motorways around Manchester.

It used to be that everything about the Subaru Legacy said “workhorse”. From bumper to tail, practicality rather than elegance was its forte.

None of that workmanlike charm has been lost with the new version, but you can’t deny it’s becoming something of a looker. Larger headlight clusters and the distinctive flaring around the front bumper (also sported by the Audi A4 and Honda Accord) give the new Legacy a handsome, modern look.

A refreshed cabin greets you inside with lots of brushed aluminium-effect trim and smart, chunky buttons. The optional touch-screen satnav is a joy to use.

The Legacy’s glossy new look impresses, but this is still every inch the capable utility vehicle beloved by its faithful buyers.

Huge boot

It comes in Sports Tourer (estate) form only, so when you drop the rear row of seats the vast boot swallows up 1,677 litres of kit. Even with a full complement of passengers there’s still 526 litres of storage space.

The drivers’ seat and steering wheel offer a wide range of adjustments making it easy to get comfortable. Most adults should find head and leg room in the rear of the car quite adequate, and acceptable for long journeys.

As Legacy buyers often add towbars to their cars, it has extra-large rear view mirrors which offer a superb view of what’s around you.

Subaru has paid close attention to lowering the running costs of the new Legacy and has succeeded in making it significantly cheaper to insure than its predecessor. This has been achieved by making exterior body panels easier to replace in the event of impact damage, meaning lower repair bills and premiums.

Boxing clever

The characteristic boxer engines have been retained. Subaru is the only manufacturer to offer such an engine in diesel form and, as well as giving a distinctive note, more of the engine’s weight is situated lower, which benefits the Legacy’s handling. Dedicated Legacy fans wouldn’t settle for anything less, and it’s easy to see why.

The 2.5-litre petrol version tested puts out 167bhp and will take the Legacy to 120mph, with 0-62mph covered in 10.3 seconds. It felt most useful mated to the six-speed manual gearbox. The Lineartronic (auto) version, though very smooth, was slow to react when revved hard for overtaking, and seemed to take rather too long to let the revs subside again afterwards.

Even with the automatic, Subaru promises a combined cycle fuel economy of 33.6mph (low thirties were easily achieved in testing).

Capacious, attractive and keenly-priced, the Legacy is yet more proof there are some seriously smart buys to be had for those who look beyond the big brands when they go car shopping.

Key facts

Model tested: Subaru Legacy Tourer 2.5i SE NavPlus
On the road price: £27,295
Price range: £23,295 – £27,295
Date tested: 29, September 2009
Road Tester: Keith Collantine