Subaru Outback 2.0D vs Skoda Scout 103TDI

An extraordinarily long gestation preceded Subaru's flat-four diesel and unfortunately the parade was stymied by the sole choice of a manual transmission. Which put it straight into the enthusiast category and promptly shunned by Aussie mums. But it's a top unit and an auto is, like tax cuts, on the way. It's a bit stingy on features compared with the Skoda but for the quality, safety and resale, the price for the Outback diesel is fair.

Skoda was supposed to be the discount division of Volkswagen but prices don't appear to undercut cousins Golf and Passat by much. However, though the price is almost on par with the Outback, the standard feature list is more impressive. It adds rear park sensors, heated seats, sat-nav, eight-speaker audio and underbody protection over the Outback. The $39,490 is for the entry-level manual with an upmarket version available. Pay $2300 extra for a six-speed dual-clutch automated manual (DSG) and your wife will care for you for life. Maybe.

The jury is still out on the styling of the Outback that, obviously, is another version of the Liberty. It's a sharp turn from the almost svelte finish of its predecessor, now with slab sides, bulging wheel arches and an aggressive nose. It may not be pretty but the shape greatly improves cabin room, especially elbow room. The driver no longer feels obliged to marry the person in the passenger seat. The boot is bigger and longer and rear seat legroom is also well up on the old model.

It's purposeful yet a tad bland, so I rate this equal to the Outback. The Scout is 206mm shorter than the Outback and also lower and slimmer. The smaller size also counts in ground clearance which is a paltry 180mm compared with the Outback's 213mm. Despite this, the cabin is roomy and luggage room is bigger than the Outback with the seats up and a bit smaller when laid flat. The dash is functional and less amusing than the Subaru but quality is first rate.

The engine is claimed to be the first volume production flat-four diesel with specific advantages being low centre of gravity, smooth operation and compact dimensions. It's mated to a heavy-duty six-speed manual - a CVT auto is supposed to be on the way - and drive is constant to all wheels. The diesel is the only Outback with electric-assist power steering.

The 103TDI diesel has been retuned recently, cutting emissions and fuel consumption. It pumps 103kW/320Nm through a six-speed manual (DSG option) to a Haldex coupling that will allocate up to 98 per cent of power to the rear wheels when needed. Generally, however, drive is to the front wheels. The "hill hold control" is a handy feature that temporarily brakes the car on a slope.

It gets a five-star crash rating - in fact, common to all Australian-spec Subarus - and seven airbags, electronic stability control, hill assist and brake assist. The spare wheel is a temporary unit but has a chunkier profile than the motorcycle tyres being wheeled out by some carmakers.

Crash testing gives the Scout - indeed, all the current Octavias - a four-star rating. Standard are six airbags, electronic stability control, anti-slip regulator and brake assist. The spare wheel is full size.

The expanded size means a more welcome cabin and a restyled dash. Better placement of switchgear and a higher centre screen are good news, while the tiny electric parkbrake adds console room for personal storage. The engine is a bit gravelly at idle but after 1500rpm is one of the quietness and smoothest four-pot diesels around. But the engine feels a bit weak under 2000rpm, despite the specs that show it's pumping 350Nm from 1800rpm. It stalled more than once in places where it shouldn't. It's real strength is mid-range where it is quiet, responsive and economical. The box is good, but the shift is firm and occasionall y feels reluctant to change gears. But the dynamics of the car are excellent, always feeling poised and confident on the road.

The Scout is basically an Octavia wagon on stilts with an all-wheel drive system. Unlike the Outback, Scout is an on-demand AWD so there's a small lag between the default front-wheel drive and kicking power back to the rear. Handling is not dissimilar to the Outback though there's less understeer when pushed. The ride isn't as plush though the extra firmness doesn't make it unpleasant for occupants. I prefer this engine to the Subaru. It's noisier but meatier down low which suits the manual gearbox and satisfies its adventure-oriented image.