Showdown Of The Wilderness Warriors: Subaru Outback Vs Mitsubishi Outlander: Which One Reigns Supreme?

In the realm of adventure-ready vehicles, the Subaru Outback and Mitsubishi Outlander stand tall as formidable contenders. These capable SUVs blend ruggedness, versatility, and comfort, making them ideal companions for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking adventure. As you embark on your journey to find the perfect SUV for your active lifestyle, let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison of the Subaru Outback and Mitsubishi Outlander.

Performance and Capability: Uncharted Territories Await

1. Engine and Powertrains:

• Subaru Outback: The Outback offers a choice between a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine producing 182 horsepower and a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine generating 260 horsepower. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard.
• Mitsubishi Outlander: The Outlander’s powertrain lineup consists of a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine delivering 181 horsepower and a 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 224 horsepower. Both engines are mated to a CVT and AWD system.

2. Off-Road Prowess:

• Subaru Outback: Renowned for its exceptional off-road capabilities, the Outback boasts a ground clearance of 8.7 inches, X-Mode with dual-function X-Mode for enhanced traction control, and a hill descent control system.
• Mitsubishi Outlander: While not as renowned for off-roading as the Outback, the Outlander offers a respectable 8.6 inches of ground clearance and a four-wheel-drive system with an Active Ride Control system to optimize handling on various terrains.

Interior Space and Comfort: A Sanctuary for Adventure

1. Passenger and Cargo Capacity:

• Subaru Outback: The Outback provides ample space for passengers and cargo, with seating for up to five adults and a generous cargo area of 35.4 cubic feet, expandable to 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
• Mitsubishi Outlander: The Outlander offers a more spacious cabin, accommodating up to seven passengers with its optional third-row seating. Its cargo capacity stands at 33.5 cubic feet behind the second row and expands to 79.7 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

2. Interior Features and Amenities:

• Subaru Outback: The Outback’s interior is well-appointed, featuring a user-friendly infotainment system, comfortable seating, and a panoramic moonroof. Higher trim levels offer premium features like leather upholstery, heated seats, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system.
• Mitsubishi Outlander: The Outlander’s cabin is designed with comfort and convenience in mind, offering a user-friendly infotainment system, supportive seats, and a spacious panoramic sunroof. Its higher trims boast features like a Bose premium audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a hands-free power liftgate.

Safety and Driver Assistance: Confidence on Every Journey

1. Safety Features:

• Subaru Outback: The Outback comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including EyeSight Driver Assist Technology with features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
• Mitsubishi Outlander: The Outlander also offers a comprehensive array of safety features, including Forward Collision Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Its higher trims add features like Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Warning with Lane Change Assist.

2. Driver Assistance Systems:

• Subaru Outback: The Outback’s driver assistance systems include features like Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Reverse Automatic Braking.
• Mitsubishi Outlander: The Outlander’s driver assistance systems include features like Lane Keep Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, and a Multi-View Camera System.

Fuel Efficiency and Practicality: Balancing Adventure and Economy

1. Fuel Efficiency:

• Subaru Outback: The Outback offers impressive fuel efficiency for an SUV, with EPA-estimated ratings of up to 26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway for the 2.5-liter engine and 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway for the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine.
• Mitsubishi Outlander: The Outlander delivers slightly lower fuel efficiency, with EPA-estimated ratings of up to 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway for the 2.5-liter engine and 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway for the 3.0-liter V6 engine.

2. Practicality and Versatility:

• Subaru Outback: The Outback’s versatile design includes a spacious cargo area, a power liftgate, and a hands-free power liftgate for added convenience. Its roof rails and available towing package make it ideal for hauling outdoor gear and equipment.
• Mitsubishi Outlander: The Outlander offers a more spacious cabin with optional third-row seating, making it a great choice for families. Its cargo area is also versatile, with a hands-free power liftgate and a hidden storage compartment under the cargo floor.

Pricing and Trims: Tailoring to Your Adventure Needs

1. Subaru Outback:

• The Subaru Outback is available in six trim levels: Base, Premium, Limited, Onyx Edition XT, Touring XT, and Wilderness. Prices start at $27,995 for the Base trim and can go up to $41,145 for the Wilderness trim.
• Mitsubishi Outlander:
• The Mitsubishi Outlander is offered in four trim levels: ES, SE, SEL, and GT. Prices start at $25,795 for the ES trim and can reach $36,995 for the GT trim.

Which One is the Ultimate Adventure Companion?

The choice between the Subaru Outback and Mitsubishi Outlander ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize off-road capability, fuel efficiency, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, the Subaru Outback is an excellent choice. However, if you seek a more spacious cabin, a more powerful engine option, and a lower price point, the Mitsubishi Outlander is worth considering.

Key Points: Embracing Adventure, Your Way

Whether you choose the Subaru Outback or the Mitsubishi Outlander, you’ll embark on a journey filled with adventure and exploration. Both SUVs offer unique strengths and capabilities, catering to different lifestyles and preferences. Embrace the spirit of adventure and choose the vehicle that best aligns with your vision of the ultimate outdoor companion.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Which SUV has better off-road capabilities, the Subaru Outback or Mitsubishi Outlander?

• The Subaru Outback generally has better off-road capabilities due to its higher ground clearance, X-Mode system, and hill descent control.

2. Which SUV offers more passenger and cargo space, the Subaru Outback or Mitsubishi Outlander?

• The Mitsubishi Outlander offers more passenger and cargo space, especially with its optional third-row seating.

3. Which SUV has better fuel efficiency, the Subaru Outback or Mitsubishi Outlander?

• The Subaru Outback has better fuel efficiency, particularly with its 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine.

4. Which SUV has a more affordable starting price, the Subaru Outback or Mitsubishi Outlander?

• The Mitsubishi Outlander has a more affordable starting price compared to the Subaru Outback.

5. Which SUV offers a more comprehensive suite of safety features, the Subaru Outback or Mitsubishi Outlander?

• The Subaru Outback offers a more comprehensive suite of safety features, including EyeSight Driver Assist Technology.