Of course it was going to be a "different" proposition to drive, however some things have surprised me. For a start my Feroza would easily outhandle the XL-7 through roundabouts and corners on the bitumen. Not what I was expecting.... The XL-7 is a chronic understeerer at what I'd only consider "moderate" speeds (tyre squeal rules

The XL-7 is sadly lacking in the underbody protection area, which surprised me. There's only a feeble plastic undertray to "protect" the sump and front diff.

Ride comfort the XL-7 has an easy win. Same with straightline speed - I'm actually surprised at how well it goes if you floor it

Maintenance for the XL-7 is dead easy- no timing belt, no valve clearances to adjust, no grease nipples to do, no adjustment on the wheel bearings etc etc. Reading through the servicing schedule it should be really cheap to maintain. Genuine parts aren't too bad with an air filter costing $56; I think I paid not much less for a Ryco filter for the Feroza?