2008 Subaru Forester XT Premium
The price: $44,990
Why we're driving it: We were supposed to get behind the wheel of the XT a few months ago but a technical issue with the cars meant the fleet was grounded. This is the first opportunity we have had to return to it since then.
Likes: Roomier cabin than before but still not too big on the outside. Cabin materials have a quality feel. Strong resale. Good low and high beams. Large side mirrors. Safety is not an option. Every model has a five-star crash rating. Full-sized spare. Unlimited-kilometre warranty. Good equipment levels and value for money.
Dislikes: Engine can sound coarse at high revs. Four-speed automatic could be more refined and could do with some extra gears. It also clunks into gear sometimes on take-off. Doesn't feel as quick as the claimed 0-100kmh sprint time of 7.1 seconds. The centre console is open at the front. Average fuel economy on test was on the high side at 13 litres/100 kilometres.