Honda CR-V DTi-S vs Mitsubishi Outlander LS diesel

Well priced and is a better buy than petrol model. High quality audio, front and rear fog lights and 17-inch alloy, wheels. Capped servicing is six monthly (Mitsubishi is annual) and is more expensive at $2124 for three years. Resale is 53 per cent and warranty is 3yr/100,000km.

Great engine, excellent economy and adequate off-road ability with seven seats.  Feature list is shy of Honda though still includes sat-nav, reverse camera, six-speaker audio and auto wipers and headlights. Capped price servicing costs $1530 for three years and warranty is brilliant at five years or 130,000km. Resale is 53 per cent.

Honda’s “real time’’ AWD electric-hydraulic system looks good on paper but is more complex than the Outlander. New 110kW/360Nm 2.2-litre diesel has a five-speed auto and claims 6.7L/100km. An “eco’’ driving mode helps reduce fuel use. Electric-assist steering converses with electronic stability to reduce understeer. Tows only 1500kg.

On-demand all-wheel drive design mostly powers only two wheels to save fuel. Outlander has a simple electronic coupling. On paper, the 2.2-litre diesel (110kW/360Nm) matches the Honda but claims less fuel use at 5.8L/100km. A six-speed auto helps, as does its 110kg lighter body. Tow rating is 2000kg.

More dynamic design than Mitsubishi. Good seating flexibility (though only five seats) and bigger 556-1648 litre boot with low cargo floor make it more versatile than the bigger Outlander. Dash design is fussy but works well. Rear-seat vents are welcome but not so for Mitsubishi.

Not a strong point but its rounded blandness supports an airy cabin with seven seats against Honda’s five. Clean dash design is well made and user friendly. No rear-seat vents. Luggage space is 477-1608 litres, down on the Honda. Access is good but boot floor is high.

Five stars, six airbags, electronic stability and traction, LED daytime running lights and a full-size alloy spare are standard. It adds tyre pressure monitor, rear camera, rear park sensors and emergency stop signal.

Industry-standard electronic equipment and five-star crash rating go with seven airbags, reverse camera, rear park sensors and full-size alloy spare. But it misses out on some extra safety equipment — daytime running lights and tyre pressure monitor included — on the Honda.

Diesel eats its petrol siblings and remains quiet, smooth and reasonably efficient. Five-speed auto is nice but Outlander’s six-speeder is better. Ride comfort is tops and falls just behind the more supple Outlander, but Honda is marginally quieter when cruising. Handling feels sportier despite its height and bulky 1723kg weight. Not competent in the dirt.

Engine is a winner and six-speed auto maximises performance. It has minimal lag off the mark and smooth power delivery. Very good comfort with compliant suspension and soft seats. Steering is a bit vague and nips any sporty inclinations. Visibility is very good thanks to high bonnet. Capable in the dirt with good traction.