Ford Kuga Trend vs Mitsubishi ASX Aspire

The Kuga asks much for its average features list including 17-inch wheels, keyless entry and start, reach and rake steering wheel with controls, aircon, split-fold rear seats and eight-speaker sound system. Lacking are climate control, auto headlights, rear camera, parking sensors and privacy tint for back windows.

The top-spec ASX gets lots of gear –touchscreen infotainment with USB and iPod access. Add reversing camera, parking sensors, 17-inch alloys, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, keyless entry and go, and reach and rake adjustable leather wheel with controls.

Ford's Euro-built cars are generally good-looking and the Kuga is no exception. It took a while to get here so is a little dated in design but still looks the goods. The interior packaging has suffered more for the delay and it doesn't have masses of interior space.

The ASX is not the prettiest soft-roader around but it's not going to shame the rugrats at school pick-up either. It sits on the Outlander platform but the overhangs are more abrupt, yet boot and cabin space don't suffer. It's comfortable with the only concern being rear headroom.

The 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo petrol engine (147kW/320Nm) needs 95RON. The combined cycle fuel figure of 10.6L/100km is a little optimistic -- low teens are more likely. The sole transmission is a five-speed auto -- appropriate for the auto-addicted Australian market.

Blunting its sales appeal, the ASX flagship is six-speed manual only but its frugal 1.8-litre turbo diesel produces 110kW/300Nm and claims 5.7L/100km -- we averaged in the 8s. It can run in front-drive or 4WD(the 4WD lock mode splits power 50-50 for demanding surfaces).

A five-star ANCAP rating comes thanks to dual front, front-side and curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, emergency braking assistance and stability control. Its all-wheel drive varies drive front to rear, adding stability.

It packs a safety alphabet including Mitsubishi's acclaimed RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) structure, ASTC (Active Stability Control with Traction Control), Hill Start Control system, ABS, electronic brake distribution, brake assist and seven airbags.

Nimble and swift with solid turbo punch, the Kuga wins for on-road dynamics. It can get thirsty if you over-indulge. Ford's specs say it can tow no more than 750kg. The centre stack can be too fussy and the cabin feels a little more snug than others.

At 1500rpm the ASX rolls along at a good rate and the gearbox shifts sweetly. The cabin is quiet, ride quality is fine and there's good boot space and reasonable occupant space. The 4WD lock gives above-average assurance and ability on unsealed surfaces.