Mitsubishi Outlander LS vs Peugeot 5008 HDi

The Outlander is marketed as an SUV (the 5008 as a wagon) but both match up. The LS is the mid-spec diesel auto with AWD, seven seats, Bluetooth, 16-inch alloys and colour screen. Five-year warranty and annual $510 capped-price servicing are among industry's best.  

New to Australia but four years old in Europe, it's based on Citroen's Grand Picasso. There's a $3500 premium for this diesel over the petrol. Features are top-shelf with sat-nav, two DVD/iPod screens in the seat backs, dual-zone aircon with rear vents, quick-fold third seat row and alloys. Capped servicing costs $330 a year.

The 2.2-litre turbo diesel (110kW/360Nm) is a beauty, drinking only 5.8L/100km. Unlike the front-drive petrol model with a CVT, the diesel gets a conventional six-speed automatic. For low-speed work in the dirt there's a 4WD lock.

Pug's familiar 2.0-litre turbo diesel (120kW/340Nm) claims 6.3 L/100km. It's mated to a six-speed auto and drives the front wheels. Highlights include retractable blinds, torch in the boot and two screens in the back of the front headrests -- foldout tables too.

Even more conservative than the Peugeot, the chamfered edges hide a spacious cabin with a huge luggage area -- up to 2506L. The austere dashboard and upholstery make a sombre impression but hint at child-proof durability.

Bland outside but cabin has clever, ultra-flexible multi-fold seat options, 2.76m stowage, luggage space of 591L-1608L, pretty and almost comprehensible dashboard. Excellent space, nice personal storage spots, panoramic sunroof and very comfortable seats.

Five-star crash rating and seven airbags. The on-demand AWD engages all wheels when road is slippery, a notable safety factor. Reverse camera, rear park sensors and hill holder. (The maker has a recall to check some safety gear.)

Five Euro NCAP stars and six airbags (the curtain bags extend through to the third seats). Rear camera, rear parking sensors (desperately needs front sensors), auto wipers and lights, heated mirrors and a hill-holder function. No spare -- only an aerosol repair kit.

Far simpler to operate than the Peugeot thanks to a more logical cockpit. Mitsu's diesel is quieter and more frugal but feels less grunty. The ride's almost as good -- though it too has low-speed suspension noise.

The 2.0-litre grunts from idle and pulls through the gearbox so quickly it seems a waste to have six cogs. Economy produces an excellent 1000km country range. Good steering feel, though brakes feel soft. Ride comfort and quietness generally excellent.