Mitsubishi’s Outlander is not the best six-seat SUV on the market but it’s up there in the top five –above all else – the five and seven seat Outlander in a mix of 2 and 4WD models is exceptional value across the nine model range – its been freshened for 2017 with a new mid-level LS model with special safety pack plus all models now getting the latest smartphone connectivity technology. Prices run from 28, 750 to 47, 500. Mitsubishi have added a 2.0-litre petrol automatic two-wheel drive LS seven-seater for 30, 500 which is exceptional family value – easy to drive, a comfortable SUV with dual zone air-conditioning – it’s a nice environment for all members of the family with the pull third row seats best for smaller members and obviously cramped for adults. All Outlanders come with a reversing camera, reverse parking sensors, seven airbags including a driver’s knee airbag, dual-zone climate control with rear air ducts under the front seat. The value story is very strong indeed. Currently $29, 990 drive-away the 2.0-litre petrol automatic Mitsubishi Outlander LS 2WD seven-seater is one ofthe best value family buys – with many added benefits for 2017. I also drove the more powerful 2.4-litre 4WD LS five-seat Outlander with safety pack for $35, 000 drive-away, the seven-seat model adding $1, 000. Only criticism from me is the CVT or continuosly variable automatic which can take some time to get used until you get used to the feeling of slip relative to forward motion.

I’m David Berthon

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