Today, I want to dive into a comparison that I found particularly interesting: the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander versus the 2024 Toyota RAV4.
We all know the RAV4 is a top seller, moving nearly half a million units annually. But the Outlander, despite not being as well-known, has some surprising advantages. So, should you go with the popular choice, or is the Outlander a hidden gem? Let’s find out together!
Pricing
First off, let’s talk about pricing. For the RAV4, I checked out the sporty yet high-end XSE trim. With almost all the options included, the total price came to $41,988 after destination fees. Surprisingly, the fully loaded Outlander wasn’t much cheaper, coming in at $41,620. So, they’re pretty neck and neck when it comes to cost.
By the way, if you’re looking to get the best price from local dealerships and want access to invoice pricing for these or any other vehicles, there’s a tool on my website that can help. Check the link in the description for more info!
Exterior Features
When you put these two side by side, the RAV4 has a tougher, boxier look, while the Outlander has a smoother, more Japanese style. Both look great in their own ways, but let’s break down the features.
The RAV4 comes with premium projector LED lighting, whereas the Outlander has reflector LEDs and throws in fog lamps at no extra cost. Moving to the sides, the Outlander looks a bit more substantial and is about 5 inches longer than the RAV4, which does impact interior space. Both offer two-tone roof options, but the Outlander comes with large 20-inch alloy wheels as standard on most trims, compared to the RAV4’s 18-inch maximum.
Around the back, both SUVs have handsome designs with partial LED tail lights and exposed wipers. Only the RAV4 has dual exposed exhaust outlets, which I think adds a bit of flair. When it comes to towing, the Outlander can handle about 13% more at 2,000 lbs compared to the RAV4’s 1,750 lbs.
Safety and Warranty
Both SUVs come with excellent safety features, including BSM heating, turn signals, and power-folding mirrors. All four major active safety systems are standard on both models, which is fantastic.
Where they differ significantly is in their warranties. Mitsubishi offers a class-leading 10-year powertrain warranty, a longer basic warranty, and, new for 2024, two years of complimentary maintenance, which matches Toyota’s offering. Now, let’s get into the interior, where things get even more interesting.
Interior Features
Both vehicles have smart entry systems and decently nice key fobs, with remote start available through their respective apps. Only the RAV4 has sensors behind the door handles, though.
Seats
Inside, both cabins are spacious and surprisingly nice. The RAV4’s black soft Tex leather wrap with blue stitching on the XSE trim is simple but elegant. The Outlander, on the other hand, goes all out with quilted semi-aniline leather seats, which feel more premium and comfortable. Both offer eight-way power adjustment with lumbar support, heated seats, and two-person memory capabilities.
Material Quality
The Outlander really steps up in material quality. It’s one of the most luxurious finishes I’ve seen in this segment, with quilted door panels, loads of leatherette on the dash, and padded leather for your knees. The RAV4’s materials are nice, but they don’t quite match the premium feel of the Outlander.
Technology and Storage
Both SUVs come with full 12.3-inch digital gauge clusters, which are customizable and functional. However, only the Outlander includes a 10.8-inch Head-Up Display. Both have heated, leather-wrapped steering wheels, but the RAV4 includes rain-sensing wipers.
When it comes to storage, the RAV4 has a clear advantage. It can hold ten donuts in the center console compared to the Outlander’s five. The RAV4 also has large cup holders and a passenger storage shelf. Both have wireless phone charging pads, but the RAV4 uses a traditional shifter, while the Outlander has an electronic one.
For reversing, both have a 360° camera. The RAV4 has dual-zone automatic climate control, while the Outlander boasts a rare three-zone automatic setup. Both sound systems (Bose for the Outlander and JBL for the RAV4) are impressive.
High-Tech Features
Both models are loaded with tech. The RAV4’s 10.5-inch display with the latest Toyota infotainment software is a big upgrade. The Outlander has a 9-inch display, which is still good but not quite on par with the RAV4. Only the RAV4 includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Both have auto-dimming mirrors with Homelink remotes, but only the RAV4’s mirror doubles as a camera mirror. Both also offer panoramic sunroofs.
Second Row and Cargo
The Outlander is about 5 inches longer than the RAV4, which gives it a slight edge in interior space. It has 5.4% more legroom, although headroom is roughly the same. In terms of amenities, both offer USB ports and rear vents, but only the Outlander has heated rear seats and window sun shades.
A unique feature of the Outlander is its third row, which is a rarity in this segment. It’s perfect for small children in a pinch, adding to the vehicle’s versatility.
Cargo Space
In the cargo area, there’s a bit of back and forth. The RAV4 has an 11% advantage in space behind the second row, but the Outlander has 133% more maximum space when the third row is folded down. The RAV4 includes a spare tire, while the Outlander does not.
Driving Performance
Now, let’s talk about driving performance. Both SUVs have 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engines with similar horsepower (181 for the Outlander and 184 for the RAV4). The RAV4 has an additional 6 lb-ft of torque and a traditional 8-speed automatic transmission, while the Outlander uses a CVT.
0-60 and Fuel Economy
The RAV4 is nearly a second faster from 0-60 due to its transmission. It’s also more fuel-efficient, with the RAV4 Hybrid rated at 40 mpg combined compared to the Outlander PHEV’s 25 mpg combined without using any electricity. The Outlander has a full electric range of 38 miles.
Ride Quality and Sound Level
The RAV4 feels more composed, while the Outlander is a bit looser. However, the Outlander offers a smoother and more refined ride. Using a sound level meter, I recorded 61.4 decibels inside the Outlander and 61.7 decibels inside the RAV4 at 55 mph.
Reliability and Resale Value
Reliability
Toyota has a stellar reputation for reliability, and the RAV4 is no exception. Mitsubishi doesn’t quite match up in this area, so I’d expect the RAV4 to be more dependable over time.
Resale Value
Using Kelley Blue Book’s five-year cost-to-own metric, the RAV4 has better resale value. You’d spend $3,376 more on the Outlander over five years.
Final Thoughts & Conclusion
So, which one should you pick? The RAV4 shines with its driving experience, interior space, and overall dependability. The Outlander, however, offers luxurious touches, unique features like a third row, and a slightly lower price.
In this comparison, the Outlander emerges as a strong contender and might just be the hidden gem you’re looking for.
