Subaru Forester

Pro's
- all wheel drive, awesome in the wet or on dirt
- compact, doesn't feel like you are driving a truck
- based on the Imprezza so handles well
- enough room in the back for carseats and the dog in the boot
- extremely reliable
- doesn't cost a fortune to fill
- has guts

Cons
- is compact so sometimes don't have enough space
- servicing at the dealership is expensive

I have to say I love it and we have had it for 4 years now. They also hold their value quite well.