2006 Mitsubishi Outlander ZF LS Activ Pack review from Australia and New Zealand

Nothing. It's new. (touch wood)

For 2 weeks, visited almost all dealers to search for medium 4x4 (4 cylinder) to be used as my family car for the next 5 years. It was a long decision for me because I want to get the right car that I will not regret buying. I worked hard and saved for the money to pay cash.

I don't understand why people are still buying the Ford Escape. Exterior is dated, interior is bland, drive is so-so and no cruise control. The CRV and RAV 4 (MY 2005) has excellent fit and finish, drive is good, but I feel they're over-priced. Tucson City is fresh, nice interior at par with Japanese standards, but the 2.0 li engine lacks punch. I've not owned a Korean car and maybe not yet in the next 5 years. The Tribute is too tall and bulky for my taste and Xtrail is out of my budget and I did not bother.

Then came the Outlander. I didn't mind the exterior looks. In fact I liked it, it's a real bloke's car unlike the CRV, RAV4, Tucson which are popular with mums. It's not too tall, not intimidating, it's a friendly family wagon to other motorists. Interior is just like any Japanese car, simple and easy to use dash layout, seats are similar to Toyota and Mazda in feel and quality.

Then came the test-drive. I can say that the InvecII auto is the best in its category. Smooth shifting and well mated to the engine. The 2.4li Mivec 120 KW (160 hp) is just spot on. Handling is excellent, sure-footed, soaks up road bumps and the ride is just comfy. No squeaks and rattles, quiet at high speeds. I wanted a real 4x4 with 4 cylinder, and this is the best I can get for my money. I even got the Activ pack free - cross roof bars, CD stacker, nudge bar and A$500 free fuel. But the steel wheels with plastic cover is pathetic, I had to fork out A$1K for a proper set of original Mitsubishi alloys.

At the moment I'm getting 12.5 li per 100 km (19mpg) but I hope this improves as the engine loosens up.

My family is very happy with our purchase. No regrets. This is our first Mitsubishi and knowing that the Outlander is fully imported from Japan, I'm quite confident that this will offer years of trouble-free motoring.