AS launch dates go, the timing could have been better.
Unleaded petrol prices have shot through the roof in recent months - but the cost of diesel has rocketed ever further.
So Subaru bosses must have been cursing their luck when they unveiled the new Sports Tourer and Outback featuring their first diesel engine in February.
Of course, like all industries, motoring must be worrying about the future as the dark clouds continue to gather over the world economy.
But Subaru is hoping that the green credentials of these two models will help drive sales through any difficult times ahead.
The 2.0 TD Outback I had for the week certainly looked like it could weather the storm.
For a start it boasts the best fuel efficiency in the 4WD passenger car class, offering a very respectable combined miles per gallon of 48.7. That beats all its main two-litre, two-wheel drive rivals, including the new Ford Mondeo as well as the VW Passat.
The emissions, also so important nowadays, are surprisingly low at just 153g/km which is another huge plus.
Yet unlike other Subarus, the Outback is not a classic beauty, appearing almost Volvo-like in looks - although you could never label it ugly.
The spacious cabin is a little more appealing on the eye. It features aluminium-effect strips running the full width of the fascia, flowing out wing-like from the centre panel.
Soft-touch trim is also extensively used, while the leather-covered steering wheel is smooth instead of dimpled, making it more pleasant to hold. The cruise control is also neatly integrated into the steering wheel.
The car has plenty of excellent features, including the dual climate control. I had never really bothered with this in other vehicles before, lazily thinking that one temperature should suit all. But having a heavily pregnant wife changed that!
During a recent hot day out she wanted an icy blast - while I was happy with just a gentle breeze. With the push of a button, dual climate control sorted that little domestic out for us.
But of course what you really expect from a Subaru is brilliant performance.
And while the Outback may be no WRX, it certainly has more poke than most cars in its class, with a top speed of 124mph and a 0-60mph dash time of 8.8 seconds.
Ride and handling are also exceptional, aided by improved power steering.
And despite being compact and light, the car hugs the road extremely well and its low centre of gravity also boosts agility.
Both the Outback and Tourer also have alloys, front and side airbags, and electrically-operated folding door mirrors fitted as standard.
Quality touches for a quality car.
FAST FACTS
Subaru Legacy 2.0 TD R Outback
Price: £22,495
Mechanical: 150bhp, 1,998cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving all four wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 124mph
0-62mph: 8.8 secs
Combined mpg: 48.7
Insurance group: 13
CO2 emissions: 153g/km
BiK rating: 20%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles, 3yrs paint, 12 yrs anti-rust