2017 Kia Sportage vs Subaru Outback

What's the difference?

Stop thinking of Kia as 'cheap and cheerful', because it doesn't apply any more. It's selling a lot of cars thanks in part to an industry-leading seven-year warranty, but they're also selling cars because they look good, they're well-specced and they're well priced.

The Sportage line is front and centre of this strategy, with smart specs and pricing right across the range. We'd like to see more driver aid safety systems added, while the update for the 2.0-litre petrol engine will also be welcomed. If you can stretch, the GT-Line is the pick for value and safety.

The Outback is a classic Subaru. Over the last two decades it has evolved from a cladding-and-ride-height Liberty special to a car in its own right. It looks like nothing else on the road and does it with a very good spec.

In the value for money stakes, it's almost unbeatable with advanced safety features (diesel manual excepted), plenty of standard equipment and surprisingly low prices. If you had to pick one, it would probably be the 2.5i Premium - it has all the safety gear without the penalty of the 3.6R's fuel consumption, plenty of comfort and is a bargain.