Mitsubishi ASX vs Peugeot 2008 2016 review

Based on the larger Outlander it uses the same 2.2-litre turbo diesel four-cylinder with six-speed auto only. Pitched at $31,990, the LS model driven offers a reasonable amount of kit but no satnav or high tech driver assist technology. No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto either. The rear climate control outlets are a bonus as are the 18-inch alloys, reverse camera and cruise control. Capped servicing is $1340 over the first three years.

Peugeot has slashed the price of the 2008 Outdoor to $29,990 drive away, a reduction of $7000. That makes it tempting for urbanites wanting a diesel SUV without the cost of all-wheel-drive and auto gearbox. Kit includes satnav, dual-zone climate control, cruise, glass roof, 17-inch alloys, large infotainment screen with apps and a decent trip computer. Service costs are capped for five years, but the first three years cost $1720, more than the ASX.

The interior hasn't changed much since the first model from about six or seven years back and is fairly generic Japanese. It's grey and functional except for the touchscreen controller which is a pain to use. The voice-activated Bluetooth is the best way to access all multimedia functions. There's a decent size load space and the critical rear seat legroom measurement is good for a car this size.

The Outdoor has Grip Control to optimise traction in slippery conditions. The interior looks a cut above for style and function, with a large tablet-style screen in the middle of the dash, a small steering wheel and some soft feel fascia and touch surfaces. There's a good size load space with a secret compartment under the load floor and folding rear seats for larger loads.

The diesel four has 110kW/360Nm, ample to push the 1540kg ASX along at a brisk pace while sipping a claimed 6.0-litres/100km. We saw 7.0. Sports mode is available for the six-speed transmission but it doesn't make that much difference to the way the ASX goes or feels.

It's an old single cam engine but the little 1.6 turbo diesel four pot with 68kW/230Nm does a great job offering plenty of acceleration, roll-on response and economy. It's capable of a claimed 4.0-litres/100km. Top gear in the five-speeder is a little too high but OK on the freeway. Engine stop-start cuts fuel use.

The ASX scores a five-star ANCAP rating and gets a reverse camera, auto headlights and rain sensing wipers. Nothing high-tech though. The rear parking sensors are a bonus.

The 2008 scores a 5-star crash rating and has six airbags. A reverse camera was recently included but there's not much by way of advanced driver assist technology aboard.

Good engine performance complemented by tidy dynamics from the multi-link suspension and decent rubber. ASX whizzes along nicely using minimal fuel on the highway even with five adults aboard. With all-wheel-drive, it's capable of snow and sand driving as long as you turn off the stability control. The seats are pretty comfy but the lack of satnav is annoying.

A punchy and economical engine makes the drive a pleasant one, as do the impressive ride and handling and the relatively quiet interior. Range is a possible 1250km on a single tank and the comfortable interior would facilitate this. The right size for modern city driving, especially parking, and it can back up as a weekend escape machine. Grip Control? Hmmmm not convinced...