My favorite THREE cars similar to the Mitsubishi Outlander are the:
- 2023 Kia Sportage
- 2023 Mazda CX-5
- 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan
First introduced as the Mitsubishi Airtrek (2001–2005), the Mitsubishi Outlander is today a revamped new generation compact crossover mid-sized Japanese SUV.
The Mitsubishi Outlander takes between 8.2 and 10.5 seconds to reach speeds between 0 to 60mph. It is not exactly the fastest SUV in the segment, nor is it the slowest.
With a base price of just over $27,000, which rises to a peak of $37,000 the 2022 Outlander is considered a little pricier than other compact crossovers.
The Mitsubishi Outlander comes with a wide range of engines. These include the world’s first mainstream plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) model, in addition to the usual petrol and diesel. Additionally, it boasts front-wheel as well as all-wheel-drive configurations.
The Outlander is motivated by a 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder engine that makes 181 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 181 pound-feet of torque at 3600 rpm. It pairs exclusively with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Front-wheel drive is the standard configuration, but the all-wheel drive is optional.
The interior of the new-generation 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander has been upgraded. The cabin design is more attractive with, amongst others, a bigger media screen, digital driver info display, and more storage. Top-spec models even come with a panoramic sunroof, rear climate control as well as heated second-row seats.
If you have a large family and are looking for more than a five-seater, then the Mitsubishi Outlander is the car for you. This SUV has both five-and seven-seater versions, The majority of grades in the Outlander range have third-row seats, except for the base model ES.
The ES is arguably the only Mitsubishi Outlander five-seater SUV. You can, however, also get the ES as a seven-seater SUV. Otherwise, the LS, Aspire, Exceed and Exceed Tourer all have 7 seats.
The Mitsubishi Outlander is available in several variants and body types that are powered by Hyb/ULP, ULP, and Diesel fuel type(s). It has an estimated fuel consumption starting from 1.9L/100km for SUV /Hyb/ULP. The 2022 Outlander has lower fuel-economy ratings.
An all-wheel-drive Outlander is rated at 24 mpg city and 30 on the highway.
In case you are still undecided and would still like to consider other cross-over SUV-type vehicles, similar cars to the Mitsubishi Outlander are…
1. 2023 Kia Sportage
Similar to the Outlander, the 2023 Kia Sportage‘s interior is comparatively spacious. However, it distinguishes itself from the multitude of compact crossovers with its extroverted styling. This Kia’s unconventional features a set of alien-looking headlights and a distinct grille design.
Add to this newly available hybrid and plug-in-hybrid powertrains, a second row of comfortable seats, lower air vents, two USB-C ports, map pockets, storage nooks, as well as a slot for a phone or tablet in the back of the front headrests, and Bob is your uncle. I am sold.
Car performance depends on the chosen engine. 0 to 60 mph, the Sportage is again similar to the Outlander. It does between 8.0 and 8.8 seconds.
Given their numerous similarities, it is no surprise that both the Sportage and Outlander list from just slightly above $27,000, though the Kia peaks at $38,000. Relatively affordable, all things considered.
When it comes to horsepower, as with the Outlander, this is provided by a 187-hp four-cylinder. The 2023 Sportage, though, has a 226-hp hybrid powertrain. The hybrid variant mixes a turbocharged 1.6-liter four with a single electric motor to generate a combined 226 horsescar .
Either powertrain can be paired with front- or all-wheel drive. An all-wheel-drive-only plug-in hybrid that shares its gasoline engine with the regular hybrid is also available, but beware, it adds a more powerful electric motor and a bigger battery pack.
With a 13.8-kWh battery pack, it’s estimated the PHEV model can go 32 miles on electricity alone and give 261 combined horsepower.
Unlike the Outlander, the Kia Sportage is a five-seater-two in the first row and three in the second. No seven-seat option is available. The rear seat is a 60/40 split-fold.
The Kia Sportage currently offers fuel consumption from 6.3 to 8.1L/100km- relatively better than the Outlander. Except for diesel, the Kia Sportage, akin to the Outlander, is available with the following fuel types: Diesel, ULP, and Hyb.
The Sportage with the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder is rated for 25 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. Equipped with front-wheel drive, all-wheel-drive models are rated for 23 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. The more powerful plug-in-hybrid model has an estimated range of 32 miles and is rated for up to 42 mpg city and 44 mpg highway.
Towing capacities can vary wildly on a large number of factors. These include engine, transmission, model, and options chosen. The Kia Sportage’s towing capacity ranges from 1650kg to 1900kg. It carries a braked towing capacity of up to 1900 Kg, but check to ensure this applies to the configuration you’re considering.
2. Mazda CX-5
Much has been written about the mainstream compact crossover, the Mazda CX-5. This is perhaps because of its affordability to the ordinary Joe, despite its internal and external elegance.
Attractive bodywork, smoother surfaces on the front and rear, coupled with a distinctive grille, three-dimensional mesh texture, and wings extending outwards toward the reshaped LED headlights make the CX-5 tasty eye candy.
In terms of speed, the CX-5 is the faster of the two. It accelerates from 0 to 60mph within 6.1 and 7.2 seconds, depending on the model grade.
The CX-5’s standard 187-hp four-cylinder engine is closer to that of the Outlander than most. For most, however, the new Turbo trim best exemplifies the CX-5. It comes with an upgraded 256-hp turbocharged engine.
The Outlander and CX-5 are in the same price range. They are both priced from just above $27,000. Notably, and understandably, however, the CX-5 price peaks at $40,000.
With two engine options, the CX-5 has two fuel-economy ratings. Akin to the Outlander, the CX-5’s base 2.5-liter engine is also rated at 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The more powerful turbocharged engine is rated more poorly at 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.
Despite the two cars’ numerous similarities, however, the Outlander is the only one with seven seats. But what the CX-5 lacks in seating space, it makes up in towing capacity. The CX-5 has a whopping towing capacity of 1800kg. 200kg more than the Outlander.
3. Volkswagen Tiguan
Considered Europe’s take on the American SUV, the Volkswagen Tiguan is similar to the Outlander in some ways. From the turbocharged four-cylinder engine to the third row offering two extra seating-seven seats! Yes, finally, a German car that speaks Outlandish American seating.
Although the 2022 Tiguan is sold globally, from 2022 U.S. dealerships have only been selling the long-wheelbase model with a third row of seats. The aptly named Tiguan Allspace is about 200mm longer. Also, for the techie-conscious, you will be happy to know that the Tiguan comes with plenty of trendy technological features.
Speed-wise, the Tiguan is a little faster than its rival. With a speed of 0 to 60 mph in 9.1 seconds, the Tiguan is at best faster than the slowest Outlander.
The price range for the Volkswagen Tiguan varies based on the trim level you choose. Starting at just under $28,000, the Tiguan’s price climaxes at just over $38,000-not that much more than the Outlander.
Peek under the Tiguan’s hood and similar to the Outlander is a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. With 184 horsepower though, the Tiguan has slightly more kick. The Tiguan is offered in petrol and diesel variants, front-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive.
Front-wheel drive is standard and Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system is optional. Globally, the Tiguan is available with five seats. But just like the Outlander, there is now also a seven-seat All-Space version.
The Volkswagen Tiguan is available in several variants and body types powered by Diesel and PULP fuel types. Starting from 6.1L/100km for its diesel SUVs, it has an estimated fuel consumption that’s better than the Outlander.
The Volkswagen Tiguan has an impressive maximum towing capacity of 2500kg for the latest model available. However, I would advise checking with the manufacturer or your vehicle’s handbook before attempting to tow anything-especially on the heavy side.
4. Toyota Rav4
The 2022 Toyota RAV4‘s practicality matches that of the Outlander, while its efficiency bolsters its value. In my view, Toyota has made this offering even more attractive by availing a host of standard driver-assistance features on the RAV4.
These include adaptive cruise control, and luxury features such as faux-leather upholstery, heated seats, and a JBL stereo system in the upscale trims.
Like the Outlander, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder is standard, though instead of a continuous CVT transmission, the RAV4 has an eight-speed automatic and front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is also available.
Unlike the Outlander, the 2022 RAV4 uses a 203-hp (at 6600 rpm) 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The front-wheel-drive remains standard.
The RAV4 lists first at $28,000 whereas the Outlander starts at just over $27,000. However, the RAV’s price peaks at $38,000-$1,000 more than the Outlander.
Fuel-wise, front-wheel-drive RAV4s manage an estimated 35 mpg on the highway. This is still better than the Outlander. For more efficiency, a RAV4 Hybrid is available for your pleasure.
Although it boasts spacious, renowned boot capacity, the RAV4 is, however, a conventional five-seater. But, what it does not have in seating space, it makes up in towing capacity. The Toyota RAV4 has a maximum towing capacity of 1500kg for the latest model available, while the Outlander has a maximum towing capacity of 1600kg
5. Subaru Forester
Like the Outlander, the Subaru Forester has an outdoors-looking image and the practicality of a compact crossover SUV. The 2022 Forester comes with a styling makeover. For 2022, Subaru has refreshed the Forester SUV with blockier-looking front headlamps, reworked its grille, and redesigned its wheels to give it a more truck-like look.
The cabin remains as comfortable and practical as ever. Onboard Wi-Fi connectivity via a 4G LTE data connection is standard on all but the base Forester.
Almost similar to the fastest Outlander, it takes the fastest Forester 8.0 seconds to rise from 0 to 60mph. Its slowest peaks after 9.0 seconds.
The Forester comes with Subaru’s trademark all-wheel-drive system.
As with the Outlander, powering all Forester models is the same 2.5-liter flat-four-cylinder engine. Also, working with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) this too makes 182 horsepower at 5800 rpm.
Like the base Outlander, the Forester’s base model will cost you from $27,000 and its Touring model about $36,000.
Seating comes standard at five passengers.
The Subaru Forester is available in many variants and body types that are powered by Hyb/ULP, ULP, Diesel, and PULP fuel types. It has an estimated fuel consumption starting from 6.7L/100km for SUV /Hyb/ULP. Somewhat akin to the Outlander, the Forester does 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway.
This matches the EPA’s fuel-economy ratings for most of the compact-crossover segment.
The Subaru Forester has a maximum towing capacity of 1500pounds (1800kg) for the latest model available. However, I would advise checking with the manufacturer or your vehicle’s handbook before attempting to tow anything-especially on the heavy side.
6. Nissan Rogue
Similar to the Mitsubishi Outlander, the Nissan Rogue is also a mid-sized compact crossover. Both are handsomely styled, although not sporty. For both, practicality and value are their game.
They boast spacious cabins, generous cargo rooms, and a host of standard niceties like several high-tech infotainment and driver-assistance items. Depending on the model, both the Outlander and Rogue reach speeds of 0 to 60mph in 8.2 seconds.
However, while earlier models of the Rogue had a lethal 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, in the 2022 model this has been replaced with a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine that makes 201 horsepower. Despite this, the Rogue still trumps the Outlander in horsepower.
Both operate on a continuous CVT transmission, though the Rogue’s has also been revised to aid acceleration and fuel economy.
The Rogue lists from $28,000, whereas the Outlander starts just above $27, 000. However, as with the RAV4, the Rogue’s price peaks at $38,000-$1,000 more than the Outlander.
The Rogue’s new turbocharged three-cylinder engine increases its fuel efficiency to 30 mpg city and 37 mpg highway- slightly more than the Outlander at 24mpg city and 30mpg highway.
In the Outlander’s corner, continue to be its seats. Most of its models are seven-seaters, while the Rogue is a conventional five-seater.
7. Honda CR-V
Similar to the Outlander, is the Honda CR-V‘s voluminous interior. It’s sculpted, almost hugging front seats welcome you and promise a safe journey. An equally compelling compact crossover, its cargo volume, and luggage space add to its practicality and family-friendliness, and usefulness.
In terms of powertrain, unlike the Outlander, the CR-V hybrid is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and two electric motors that combine to make 212 horsepower. The Honda CR-V can also be found with a 1.5-liter unit turbocharged engine—that makes 190 horsepower—closer to the Outlander’s horses.
Like the Outlander, the CR-V has also been paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission(CVTs). And how much will all this cost you? Well, the 2022 Honda CR-V is more or less in the same cost range as the Outlander. It calls from $28,000 and stops at $39,000.
Seating comes standard at five. Very few crossovers can trump the Outlander on the number of seats.
Like most vehicles, fuel consumption for the 2022 Honda CR-V is dependent on the type of engine, transmission, or model you choose. The Honda CR-V is available with fuel types ULP and Hyb. The 2022 Honda CR-V models currently offer fuel consumption from 7 to 7.6L/100km.
Its two engine choices are more frugal than the relatively fuel-guzzling Outlander. The front-drive, gas-only model is rated at 28 mpg city and 34 on the highway. The all-wheel-drive models are rated at 27 mpg city and 32 on the highway. Road trips will require fewer stops for fill-ups because of the CR-V’s fuel efficiency and economy.
The hybrid CR-V is estimated at 40 mpg city and 35 on the highway.
When it comes to towing limits, the CR-V has one of the lowest. Its towing capacity ranges from 1000kg to 1500kg. This means it carries a braked towing capacity of up to 1500kg. However, do check to ensure if this is the case with the configuration you’re considering.
8. Mazda CX-50
If a rugged and raised urban crossover like the Outlander is what you seek, then maybe you should also consider the much-talked-about 2023 Mazda CX-50.
Aside from similarities or near-similarities with the Outlander in horsepower, fuel consumption, powertrain, and arguably looks and speed, the CX-50 is well-equipped to take on compact crossover rivals, including its countryman, the Outlander.
Boasting an all-new body, it uniquely shares no exterior panels with the Japanese brand’s other transverse-engine small cars and SUVs. A determined effort to strengthen the monocoque body has seen the roof, B-pillars, and door jambs beefed up – just right for roof racks. Above all, it unveils Mazda’s first-ever panoramic sunroof option.
The fastest model does 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, while the slowest does so in 8.0 seconds-roughly the same as the fastest Outlander.
Close to the Outlander, the CX-50 is available with a 187-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder. A turbocharged version of that engine makes 256 horsepower and increases towing capacity to 3500 pounds. All models come standard with a six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive.
As with the Outlander, it is rumored that a hybrid model will join the line-up later. Most probably on a powertrain sourced from the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid-a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with two electric motors good for a combined 219 horsepower.
Like the CX-5, CX-30 crossovers, and the Mitsubishi Outlander ES, the CX-50 offers enough room for five passengers in two rows of seats.
To drive the Mazda CX-50 you’ll need between $28,000 and $42,000. Relatively more than for an Outlander.
The most efficient CX-50 is the one with the base four-cylinder. Akin to the Outlander, the base model is also rated for 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.
9. Hyundai Tucson
Going head-to-head with the Outlander’s other strong rivals of the Volkswagen Tiguan, Mazda CX-5, Honda CV-R, and Toyota RAV4 is the Hyundai Tucson. Similar or near-similar to the Outlander is the Tucson’s engine, horsepower, and city and highway fuel consumption.
However, what I found particularly impressive is the wide range of horsepower, transmission, and performance the Tucson brings to the table.
Almost like the Outlander, the Tucson offers 187-hp powered by a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder. This works together with an eight-speed automatic on either a front or an all-wheel drive. Also available is a turbocharged 1.6-liter four to power hybrid and plug-in hybrid models augmented by an electric motor.
The result of which is a combined 227-hp in the former and 261-hp in the latter. All-wheel drives come standard with electrified powertrains that both work with a six-speed automatic transmission.
The result of what’s under the hood speed-wise is that the more powerful hybrid and plug-in hybrid models are quick to get to 60 mph. They do so in 7.1 seconds, while the all-wheel-drive Limited test vehicle makes it to 60 mph in 8.8 seconds-slightly slower than the fastest Outlander. And what does this mean in terms of pricing?
Depending on the model that finally wins your interest, the Hyundai Tucson is priced from an SE modest $26,000 to a plug-in hybrid high of $44,000.
Seating in the Tucson comes conventional at five passengers.
According to EPA estimates, nonhybrid versions of the 2022 Tucson should deliver as high as 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway with front-wheel drive. As for the hybrid, fuel efficiency ratings are as high as 38 mpg city and 38 mpg highway.
In the EPA’s test, the plug-in hybrid model earned a rating of 80 MPGe combined and delivered 33 miles of electric-only driving. The EPA also reports that the Tucson’s plug-in hybrid model sports a 13.8-kWh battery pack that offers up to 33 miles of electric-only driving.
When connected to a level 2 charging station, a 7.2-kW onboard charger ensures the battery is fully recharged in around two hours.
If the above list of vehicles similar to the Mitsubishi Outland does not suffice, you could also look up the Kia Sorento (Cost range:$31-49,000); Kia Seltos (Cost range:$24-29,000); and the Ford Escape(Cost range:$29-42,000) for possible similarities. Good luck!
In the meantime, below are some frequently asked questions relating to the Mitsubishi Outlander you might be interested in too.
Mitsubishi Outlander Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the most common problem with the Mitsubishi Outlander?
One of the common issues that plagued the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander is premature brake wear. Several owners have reported that their brakes started to wear out just months after they bought their vehicle.
Is the Mitsubishi Outlander a reliable car?
The Kelley Blue Book consumer rating index gives the Outlander a very respectable reliability rating of 4.6/5. JD Power gave the Outlander a consumer quality and reliability rating of 82/100. In 2017, WhatCar voted the Outlander as the most reliable large SUV and Mitsubishi was voted the runner-up most reliable brand.
Is the Mitsubishi Outlander expensive to fix?
A Mitsubishi Outlander will cost about $7,173 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for popular SUV models by $1,960. There is also a 21.63% chance that an Outlander will require a major repair during that time.
