7 Essential Comparisons: Toyota Highlander Vs Mitsubishi Outlander – Family SUV Showdown
When you're in the market for a family SUV that promises space style and durability you might find yourself comparing the Toyota Highlander and the Mitsubishi Outlander. Both SUVs offer unique advantages and some drawbacks that could make or break your decision. Let's dive deep into the specifics with a light-hearted yet informative take on what these family haulers have to offer!
Overview of the Toyota Highlander and Mitsubishi Outlander
Toyota Highlander: Known for its robust build and reliable performance the Highlander has been a favorite in the family SUV category for years. With seating for up to eight and a host of safety features it’s built to keep you and your loved ones secure on the road.
Mitsubishi Outlander: A bit of an underdog in the SUV race the Outlander shines with its value proposition offering competitive features at a lower price point. It seats seven and offers one of the more engaging driving experiences in its class.
Key Features Comparison
Performance
Highlander:
- Engine: 3.5L V6
- Horsepower: 295 hp
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs
Outlander:
- Engine: 2.4L I4
- Horsepower: 181 hp
- Towing Capacity: Up to 2,000 lbs
Insight from Alex Collantes "While the Highlander boasts more power and towing capacity the Outlander’s lighter frame and engine offer surprisingly zippy handling that could outpace its bigger cousin in city driving."
Interior and Comfort
Highlander:
- Spacious third row
- Upscale materials
- Quiet cabin
Outlander:
- Improved infotainment system
- Comfortable seating
- Slightly more cramped third row
Drawback with a Twist: Ever tried squeezing into the third row of the Outlander during a family reunion? It’s like playing a game of Tetris where you're the only block that doesn’t quite fit.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Highlander: 21 city / 29 highway mpg Outlander: 24 city / 30 highway mpg
While the Outlander edges out in fuel efficiency it's like choosing the lesser of two evils when you’re still stuck with the gas pump blues on long trips.
Safety and Reliability
Both SUVs come equipped with advanced safety features including adaptive cruise control automatic emergency braking and lane departure warnings.
Reliability Insight: The Highlander traditionally holds a slight edge in reliability rankings. The Outlander though? It tries hard bless its heart.
Technology and Connectivity
From touchscreen displays to connectivity features both SUVs offer modern tech but the Highlander has a slight edge with a more intuitive system. The Outlander's system is like that one friend who's great until they start glitching at the worst possible times.
Pricing and Value
Highlander: Starts at around $35,000 Outlander: Starts at around $25,000
Alex Collantes notes "The Outlander is the wallet-friendly warrior of the two. It’s like getting a latte for the price of an espresso!"
Warranty and Maintenance
Highlander:
- Basic: 3 years/36,000 miles
- Powertrain: 5 years/60,000 miles
Outlander:
- Basic: 5 years/60,000 miles
- Powertrain: 10 years/100,000 miles
The Outlander’s warranty is like a good friend who promises to stick around for the long haul. Meanwhile the Highlander’s warranty whispers sweet nothings of short-term commitments.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the Highlander and Outlander will depend on what you value more: the robust and reliable performance of the Toyota or the budget-friendly and feature-rich Mitsubishi. Both have their quirks like a family member who tells the same story every holiday but in the end they each bring something special to the family table.
Before making your decision consider test-driving both to see which one feels like the better fit for your family adventures or lack thereof if the third row becomes your new storage space!