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Hi, we have a 1.8l Toyota Rav4 and are considering upgrading to a Mitsubishi Outlander, 2WD, 2000cc. The Outlanders seem to have 3 shoulder belts in the middle row which is something we need for car seat purposes as we wouldn't be using the rear seats everyday. However, we're finding it difficult to find many of the 2000cc Outlanders but are reluctant to go from a 1800cc engine to a 2400cc engine as fear the running costs would be a bit too steep. Can anyone tell me what the difference in running a 2000cc engine versus a 2400cc engine would be? Also, does anyone have any other suggestions on an alternative 7 seater (not people mover) that is a 2l, 2WD that has 3 shoulder belts in the middle row? Thanks

The Mitsubishi Outlander is a good choice of vehicle to buy. The 2.4L 4x4 version uses around 9.3L/100km of fuel and the 2.0L 2wd option uses 7.6L/100km. Petrol wise it will cost slightly more to run. Mechanically, the only big difference is the rear differential and prop-shaft, the 2.4L engine service items should be at a similar price to the 2.0L motor. It might be wise to wait a bit for the right Outlander to come along. Another option would be the 2.0L petrol Nissan Qashqai seven seater.