Subaru has survived in the intensely competitive automotive business by offering unique products along with smart marketing. It hasn’t always been easy. Back in the mid ‘90’s the automaker struggled, trying to rival its giant Japanese competitors in product offerings. Then it focused on its smart all-wheel-drive system and opposed-cylinder “boxer” engine design that set it apart in the non-luxury segment. And the introduction of the Legacy Outback in 1995, a wagon that was happy on or off paved roads, was a big hit.

Over time, the Outback wagon has become its own model, separated from the Legacy sedan and is available in a wide range of trim offerings to fit budgets and ambition. Our Touring edition has everything one expects in a luxury offering, from an advanced dynamic cruise control to heated front and rear Napa leather seats, heated steering wheel and a Harman Kardon sound system. There’s more on the long Comfort and Convenience list but let’s not overlook the performance upgrade of the turbocharged 2.4-liter engine that produces 260HP and 277 lb ft of torque.

Subaru’s Outback is still the best-selling model in the automaker’s nine-model lineup, alternating that title with the taller, SUV-like Forrester for those who insist on a more “commanding” view of the road. While sitting up higher has its merits, that advantage is offset by upping the center of gravity and as you might recall from your physics studies, that means a bit less fun around turns. That’s why most car enthusiasts like station wagons. Besides, they look cool. And if you want to get further off road, Outback’s Wilderness trim hikes its chassis up to 9.5-inches of ground clearance from an already SUV-like 8.7.

When you’re on paved roads, Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive, Active Torque Vectoring and Vehicle Dynamics Control are at work all the time to inspire confidence in most all driving conditions. If things get icy, muddy or otherwise challenging, including off-road adventures, Subaru’s X-MODE is a button push away to furnish the best solution. And hill-decent control will help you down that steep decline like a pro. All these attributes are standard on every Outback.

Subaru is a unique brand that doesn’t try to march to the common industry drums of filling every nook and cranny of a product portfolio, yet still offers a nine-model lineup that includes the Solterra electric vehicle along with the BRZ sportscar and the growling WRX sports sedan. And while it’s not easy to find direct rivals for our Outback, the Hyundai Tucson Limited, Volvo V60 Cross Country and MINI Countryman Cooper S ALL4 are in this vibe and around the same price range.