Used SUVS head to head
We pick from Mitsubishi Outlander and Kia Sorento diesels
Mitsu Outlander 2.2 DI-D GX4
Years: 2012 to date Engine: 2.2-litre 4cyl, 147bhp Ins grp: 27 Official econ/co2: 53.3mpg/164g/km Why? Revisions in 2015 have helped keep the Outlander fresh, with generous kit and seven seats.
Prices from: £10,500
MITSUBISHI created a lucrative niche with its Outlander PHEV plug-in hybrid SUV, but how does it fare as a diesel? The engine, launched in 2015, could be the answer for high-mileage drivers or those needing off-road prowess.
As well as new engines, 2015 also brought a fresh look, with extra chrome detailing. The kit list is generous, too, even on entry-level models – although top-spec versions are absolutely loaded with gadgets.
The interior is a little bland, though, while wind noise on motorways is a little excessive. The diesel does pull well, but ouright performance isn’t anything special.
When it comes to practicality, the model tested here has seven seats, but the rearmost bench is suitable only for children. The boot is slightly smaller than the Sorento’s, too.
The Outlander didn’t rank in our Driver Power 2016 satisfaction survey, but Mitsubishi has a long history of building dependable cars and this model has proven no different so far. Kia Sorento 2.2 CRDI KX-3
Years: 2015 to date Engine: 2.2-litre 4cyl, 197bhp Ins grp: 26 Official econ/co2: 46.3mpg/161g/km Why? It’s spacious, classy inside and cheap to run, with real seven-seat usability, but it’s a little pricey.
Prices from: £13,990
THE Kia Sorento encompasses everything that’s good about Kia: a rugged, dependable off-roader, with hints to the upmarket future pursued by the brand.
As a result, this Sorento is much pricier than the Outlander, but due to lower running costs you should start to see the benefit over time. Cheaper fuel bills don’t come at a cost of performance, either, because the Kia’s diesel outperforms its rival.
Styling is fairly similar to the Outlander, with bold chrome grilles dominating both cars, but their interiors couldn’t be more different. The Sorento is much better quality inside, while like the Outlander, it’s stacked with hi-tech equipment, even on basic models. As a sevenseater, the Kia is much more usable, too, with adults able to fit in the rearmost seats.
The Sorento finished an impressive 32nd place in Driver Power 2016 with performance, ride quality and build quality praised. There’s also the bonus of Kia’s seven-year warranty.