7 Reasons Why the Kia Sorento Dominates the Mitsubishi Outlander: A 2024 Comparison

When it comes to SUVs the battle between Kia Sorento and Mitsubishi Outlander is like the Rocky Balboa vs. Apollo Creed of the automotive world. You got two strong contenders with their unique moves, but only one winner can emerge. So buckle up as we take you through a no-holds-barred comparison—covering everything from design to performance, and yes even those little quirks that make you shake your head and laugh. Let’s dive into it.

Sorento vs Outlander: A Quick Overview

Before we break things down like a game of Tetris here’s a quick side-by-side look at the 2024 Kia Sorento and 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander:

Performance & Powertrain

Kia Sorento: A Smooth Operator

When it comes to engines Kia Sorento doesn't play around. You got three options to choose from:

• Base 2.5L 4-cylinder making 191 hp & 181 lb-ft of torque
• Turbocharged 2.5L 4-cylinder with a beefier 281 hp & 311 lb-ft torque
• A 1.6L Turbo Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid with up to 261 hp and a stellar fuel economy

The Sorento’s turbocharged engine is the one to look out for—fast on its feet and gives a solid 0-60 mph time around 7.3 seconds. Quick enough to make you feel like a superstar without feeling like you're pushing a school bus uphill.

Mitsubishi Outlander: All Show No Go?

Now the Mitsubishi Outlander comes with a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine across the board producing a humble 181 hp and 181 lb-ft torque. If you're looking for more excitement there's the plug-in hybrid option with up to 248 hp but don't expect it to blow your socks off. It's like getting socks for Christmas—practical but doesn't make you jump for joy.

The Outlander's powertrain feels more conservative compared to the Sorento’s, so if you want that extra oomph the Kia is your guy. Or should we say your SUV?

Interior & Comfort

Kia Sorento: High-Class Cabin on a Budget

One thing about the Kia Sorento—it doesn't skimp on the inside. The materials feel premium for its price, and it’s got an upscale vibe that makes you wonder if you accidentally walked into a luxury showroom. Soft-touch plastics an available 10.25-inch infotainment screen (or a standard 8-inch if you’re frugal) and optional leather seating make the Sorento’s cabin feel modern and cozy.

Not to mention, Kia knows that space is key; with seating for up to seven and a decent amount of cargo space (up to 75.5 cu ft with seats down), road trips and Costco runs are a breeze.

Potential Drawback?

You might get so comfortable you'll wanna live in it. But the third row is better for kids or that friend who doesn't mind getting cozy. Not a dealbreaker but it's like that last seat on the airplane—you don’t wanna be the one to get it.

Mitsubishi Outlander: Stylish Yet Tight

The Outlander is like that person who dresses well but has a tiny closet. The interior is attractive with good-quality materials and a fresh 9-inch infotainment display in the higher trims. The Outlander also offers seven seats, but here's the kicker: space is tighter than your favorite pair of jeans after Thanksgiving. Cargo room is 11.7 cu ft behind the third row which might have you playing trunk Tetris more often than you'd like.

Alex Collantes’ Opinion

"I’ve driven both and while the Outlander has a really slick design and some great tech the Sorento just feels roomier and more comfortable—especially on longer drives."

Tech & Features

Kia Sorento: The Tech Lover's SUV

For techies, the Sorento is like an all-you-can-eat buffet. From Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to available wireless charging and Bose premium audio the Sorento ensures you never have to miss a beat. The optional 10.25-inch touchscreen is crisp and clear and the digital gauge cluster makes you feel like you're piloting a spaceship rather than an SUV.

Plus safety features like Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Monitoring and even Highway Driving Assist mean you can kick back and enjoy the ride a bit more.

Mitsubishi Outlander: Less Tech More Talk

The Outlander has all the basics—Apple CarPlay Android Auto and safety features like Blind Spot Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking but it just doesn't have that “wow” factor. The 9-inch screen in higher trims is decent and responsive, but if you're looking for extra tech goodies like a head-up display or adaptive cruise control you'll find them here—just not with the finesse and abundance of the Sorento.

Driving Experience & Handling

Sorento: Smooth Moves

The Kia Sorento is like a jazz musician—smooth and sophisticated. Steering is light, handling is responsive, and it has a great suspension system to glide over bumps without feeling like you're in a rollercoaster.

Fun Fact

The AWD system on the Sorento has a snow mode, making it a solid choice for those unexpected weather conditions.

Outlander: Good Enough But Not Great

The Outlander feels more like a reliable friend who's not quite the life of the party but won’t let you down either. Steering feels more muted, and the handling is just okay—think along the lines of a mid-season baseball game. It gets the job done but doesn't make you wanna do a victory lap.

Potential Drawback?

Mitsubishi's engine can get a bit noisy when pushed hard so unless you like the sound of a vacuum cleaner giving its all it might be a little bothersome.

Fuel Economy & Efficiency

Sorento's Efficiency

In the fuel economy department the Sorento brings in some impressive numbers. The 1.6L Turbo Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models get you up to 37 mpg or 79 MPGe. For gas models expect a respectable 26-29 mpg combined which is pretty solid for a 3-row SUV.

Outlander’s Plug-in Advantage

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV brings something special to the table—64 MPGe combined and up to 24 miles of all-electric range. Great for those short commutes without burning gas but don’t expect the gas-powered versions to be as thrifty as the hybrids.

Price & Value

Sorento's Higher Price but More Features

While the Sorento does start a bit higher ($31,215) than the Outlander ($29,395) you also get more for your buck. With more power options a more comfortable interior and extra tech it feels like a worthwhile investment.

Outlander’s Value Play

The Outlander prides itself on value especially if you’re going for the entry-level trims. You’re getting decent tech seven seats and a good enough driving experience without breaking the bank.

Alex Collantes’ Opinion

“When you weigh the features the Sorento gives you compared to its price tag it’s a no-brainer for me. I always tell people spend a little more up front and you get a lot more in the long run.”

Verdict: Kia Sorento vs Mitsubishi Outlander - Who Wins?

At the end of the day choosing between the Kia Sorento and Mitsubishi Outlander comes down to what you value most in an SUV. But let’s break it down one more time:

Kia Sorento Pros

1. Multiple engine options including powerful turbo and hybrid
2. High-end interior with quality materials and modern tech
3. Great cargo space and seating for 7
4. Advanced safety features and driver aids
5. Smooth driving experience with AWD options
6. Efficient fuel economy especially in hybrid models
7. More tech features and infotainment options

Mitsubishi Outlander Pros

1. Lower starting price with good value at the base trim
2. Unique styling and fresh interior design
3. Fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid model
4. All the basic safety tech you need
5. Simple but easy-to-use infotainment

Potential Drawbacks (Humorous Twist)

• The Sorento’s third row might be more suited to hobbits than full-sized adults.
• The Outlander's engine might remind you of a hair dryer that's just trying its best.
• Both SUVs have tight third-row spaces, so choose your passengers wisely (or draw straws).

Final Thoughts

If you want a more premium feel, advanced features, and a choice of powertrains the Kia Sorento comes out on top as the all-around champion. But if you're looking for a budget-friendly entry into the world of 7-seater SUVs with some plug-in hybrid flair the Mitsubishi Outlander holds its ground.

So there you have it the Sorento vs Outlander debate broken down into the good the bad and the not-so-ugly. But don’t take our word for it—test drive both and see which one speaks to you.

References

1. "2024 Kia Sorento: Features & Specs" - Kia Official Website
2. "2024 Mitsubishi Outlander: A Versatile 7-Seater" - Mitsubishi Motors USA
3. Edmunds.com - Comparison on pricing and specifications
4. Alex Collantes - Personal insight and experiences driving both models
5. U.S. News & World Report - Best SUVs of 2024 Analysis

Let us know in the comments which one you would pick—Team Sorento or Team Outlander?