Then there's the dual front airbags, the head restraints and the LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) for securing child seats in the rear.

Subaru makes a big deal of being the only car company in Canada to sell only vehicles with all-wheel-drive, and so they should.

''Subaru has 30 years of experience in building all-wheel drive vehicles,'' Osakabe notes, ''and is dedicated to the principle that the best and safest cars are those that respond quickly, accurately and dependably to the driver in all circumstances. This not only enhances driving enjoyment under normal driving conditions, but also gives a driver the greatest possible control over the vehicle in an emergency situation.''