Mitsubishi Outlander vs Kia Sorento: A Comparative Review of These Versatile SUVs
Are you in the market for a new SUV but caught between two popular models - the Mitsubishi Outlander and the Kia Sorento? It’s a tough choice; both offer unique features, stylish designs, and practical functionality. In this article we’ll give you a comprehensive comparison of these two great vehicles to help you make an informed decision. We’ll break down the pros and cons of each one while highlighting their differences and similarities. Let’s see which one is the right fit for you.
Overview: Mitsubishi Outlander and Kia Sorento
The Mitsubishi Outlander and Kia Sorento are both standout options in the SUV category offering distinct characteristics and features that appeal to different buyers. The Outlander has a reputation for being affordable and efficient with a fresh design while the Sorento brings a refined touch with advanced tech features and a bit more power under the hood.
These two SUVs are popular choices for families and adventurers alike thanks to their spacious interiors third-row seating (optional in the Outlander standard in the Sorento) and solid safety features. We’ll compare their performance interior space safety features fuel efficiency pricing and more to help you decide which of these SUVs best suits your lifestyle.
Performance and Engine Options
Mitsubishi Outlander Performance
The Mitsubishi Outlander comes with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that generates 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. It comes paired with a CVT transmission which provides smooth gear shifts. While this powertrain is suitable for daily driving it doesn’t deliver the same punchy acceleration that you might find in some rivals. The ride quality is generally comfortable but you may notice some road noise at higher speeds.
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Pros:
- Good fuel economy for its class
- Comfortable ride for everyday driving
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Cons:
- Lacks the power for sportier driving
- Can feel underpowered with a full load
Kia Sorento Performance
The Kia Sorento on the other hand offers multiple engine choices. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder with 191 horsepower. For those who seek a bit more power a turbocharged version of this engine is available producing 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. It offers an 8-speed automatic transmission or an optional dual-clutch 8-speed automatic with the turbo engine. The Sorento's handling is responsive making it an enjoyable drive whether you're on the highway or winding back roads.
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Pros:
- Multiple engine options to suit different driving preferences
- More power and acceleration with the turbocharged engine
- Smooth transmission and refined ride quality
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Cons:
- Fuel economy drops with the turbo engine
- Some may find the ride a bit firm
Alex Collantes a long-time SUV enthusiast shares his thoughts: “I’ve driven both vehicles and found the Sorento to be way more engaging to drive. The Outlander feels a bit more comfortable for city commuting but if you want some spirited driving the Sorento is the better choice.”
Interior Space and Comfort
Mitsubishi Outlander Interior
The Outlander’s interior underwent a recent overhaul with soft-touch materials and an improved design. The cabin feels more upscale than its previous generations. It offers three rows of seats as standard making it one of the few compact SUVs to do so. However the third row is quite tight and best suited for kids or smaller adults. Cargo space is decent but not exceptional.
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Seating:
- Standard three-row seating for seven
- Comfortable front seats with good support
- Third row is cramped for adults
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Pros:
- Upscale interior materials and modern design
- Plenty of standard features like Apple CarPlay Android Auto and a good infotainment system
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Cons:
- Limited cargo space with all three rows up
- Cramped third-row seating
Kia Sorento Interior
The Kia Sorento also boasts a three-row seating configuration but it’s a bit more spacious than the Outlander especially in the third row. The interior feels premium with high-quality materials used throughout. The infotainment system is user-friendly and packed with features. The Sorento's second and third rows can be folded flat to provide ample cargo space which is a significant plus for those who need to haul gear or luggage.
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Seating:
- More spacious third-row seating compared to Outlander
- Comfortable and supportive seats in all rows
- Available captain’s chairs for second row for added comfort
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Pros:
- Roomy interior with plenty of space for passengers
- Generous cargo area with the third row folded
- Premium feel with upscale materials and features
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Cons:
- Standard third-row seating may not be as comfortable for taller adults
- Certain luxury features are available only on higher trims
“Honestly” Alex Collantes adds “the Sorento really impresses with its interior quality and space. It just feels more thought-out than the Outlander especially when you’re looking for a more family-oriented SUV.”
Safety Features and Ratings
Mitsubishi Outlander Safety
The Outlander is equipped with Mitsubishi’s Advanced Safety Features like Forward Collision Mitigation Blind Spot Warning Rear Cross Traffic Alert and more. It received solid crash-test ratings and offers driver-assistance tech that helps give peace of mind during your drives. However some of these features are not standard on the base model and require you to opt for higher trims.
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Pros:
- Good crash-test ratings
- Advanced safety features available on higher trims
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Cons:
- Safety features not standard across all trims
- Some competitors offer more tech as standard
Kia Sorento Safety
Kia has always been big on safety and the Sorento is no exception. Standard safety features include Forward Collision Avoidance Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Lane Keeping Assist and more. The Sorento received high safety ratings as well and its available Surround View Monitor and Safe Exit Assist are great additions to keep your passengers safe.
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Pros:
- Generous list of standard safety features
- Top-notch safety ratings
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Cons:
- Some advanced safety features are only available on higher trims
- Limited standard safety features on base trims compared to higher-end trims
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Mitsubishi Outlander Fuel Efficiency
The Outlander has decent fuel efficiency with an estimated 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway for the FWD version. This is competitive for its class and makes it a good option for those looking to save on fuel costs. However its fuel economy can drop when carrying a full load or if you're driving in more demanding conditions.
Kia Sorento Fuel Efficiency
The Sorento’s base engine delivers respectable fuel economy with an estimated 24 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. However if you opt for the turbocharged engine expect those numbers to drop slightly to 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. Kia also offers a hybrid version of the Sorento which boosts fuel efficiency to around 37 mpg combined making it one of the most efficient in its class.
Pricing and Value for Money
Mitsubishi Outlander Pricing
The Mitsubishi Outlander has a competitive starting price that makes it attractive for budget-conscious buyers. The base model starts around $27,000 making it a more affordable option compared to many rivals. As you move up in trim levels you'll find added features and amenities but the price can quickly climb. Overall the Outlander offers solid value but may feel lacking if you are looking for advanced features.
Kia Sorento Pricing
The Kia Sorento starts at around $31,000 which is higher than the Outlander but it comes with more standard features and tech. As you move up the trims you'll get access to premium options like leather seats panoramic sunroof and advanced safety tech. The Sorento Hybrid is priced higher but may be worth the extra investment for those wanting better fuel economy.
Pros and Cons: Mitsubishi Outlander vs Kia Sorento
Mitsubishi Outlander Pros
- Affordable pricing in base trims
- Modern and upscale cabin design
- Decent fuel economy for everyday driving
Mitsubishi Outlander Cons
- Underpowered engine for sporty driving
- Cramped third-row seats
- Limited cargo space with all seats in use
Kia Sorento Pros
- Multiple powertrain options including hybrid
- Spacious interior with comfortable seating
- Upscale materials and premium feel
Kia Sorento Cons
- Higher starting price than some competitors
- Lower fuel efficiency with the turbo engine
- Some advanced features available only on higher trims
Conclusion: Which SUV Should You Buy?
Both the Mitsubishi Outlander and Kia Sorento have their unique strengths and drawbacks. If you're looking for a more affordable SUV that offers standard third-row seating good fuel economy and a recently refreshed interior the Outlander is a solid choice. However if you desire more power a spacious interior with comfortable third-row seating and a more premium feel the Sorento would likely be the better fit.
Alex Collantes sums it up nicely: “If you're looking for value and just want a comfortable SUV for city driving and family errands go for the Outlander. But if you want a bit more style power and tech for the extra cost then the Sorento is the way to go.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Is the Kia Sorento better than the Mitsubishi Outlander?
- It depends on what you're looking for in an SUV. The Sorento offers more power and a premium feel while the Outlander is more affordable with a solid list of standard features.
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Which SUV has better fuel efficiency?
- The Outlander has competitive fuel economy but if you go for the Sorento Hybrid you’ll get much better mpg.
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How many passengers can each SUV seat?
- Both the Outlander and Sorento have three rows of seats. The Outlander seats seven while the Sorento seats seven as well but offers more space in the third row.
References (Note: For the purpose of this article specific references are general automotive sources like Edmunds Kelley Blue Book and Car and Driver which have detailed reviews of both the Mitsubishi Outlander and Kia Sorento.)
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