Mitsubishi offers more value all across the board.
For most people in Maryland, buying a new crossover is no easy task. The mid-size crossover segment offers a vast amount of options and the vehicles typically sell quite well. So how does the consumer decide which vehicle is best for their needs? There is nothing like a head-to-head comparison to show which vehicle reigns supreme. The 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander and 2011 Honda CR-V are two good options. The two crossovers are about the same size and attract similar buyers, but upon closer review the Mitsubishi offers more persolization and value.
Starting with price on comparable models the Outlander SE starts at an MSRP of $22,995, while the CR-V EX comes in at $24,195. That’s a $1,200 difference. Step up to the high end trim Outlander XLS (MSRP $26,845) and compare it to the CR-V EX-L (MSRP $25,795), and the price gap remains considerable, with the Honda forcing you to shell out $1,050 more.
Crossovers are often judged by their roominess and overall comfort, and again the Outlander comes out on top. For starters, the Mitsubishi features seating for up to seven, while the Honda can only muster room for five. Longer and taller then the CR-V, the Outlander also features more front and rear leg room and even more cup holders. The Outlander XLS features high-end features like card key entry, push-button start and rain sensing wipers, while those features can’t be had at any price on the Honda.
And what about technology? Both the CR-V and the Outlander feature standard USB and auxiliary inputs to accommodate an MP3 player or Smart Phone, but from there the Honda begins to lose steam. The Outlander features its exclusive FUSE Hands-free Link System that enables the driver to make voice commands, while the CR-V doesn’t have any hands-free technology, unless you buy the pricey navigation system.
Exterior styling is also important to the crossover shopper, and the Outlander once again pulls ahead with far more modern sheet metal. Also, the Outlander’s styling lead can be measured. The Outlander SE comes with standard 18-inch wheels, while the Honda can only manages 17-inches of wheel. And if you look at the upper-trim models, the XLS comes standard with Xenon High Intensity Discharge Headlights with Automatic Leveling. The CR-V? Old-school halogen lamps. The XLS also adds signaling exterior mirrors, while the Honda does not.
Power is also important, as is fuel economy. The Outlander offers a choice of two powerplants, a 168 hp inline four that also produces 167 lb/ft of torque and an available 3.0-liter V6, with 230 hp and 215 lb/ft of torque. The Honda, meanwhile, comes only in four-cylinder guise, with 180 hp and 161 lb/ft powerplant. If you’re going to drive a vehicle with a four cylinder, it should at least be fuel efficient. The CR-V manages 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Solid numbers, but the four-cylinder-equipped Outlander bests the Honda with 23 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
The advantages continue for the Outlander when it comes to warranty. The CR-V features a 36-month, 36,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. That’s normal for most vehicles, but the Outlander aspires to be extraordinary. Mitsubishi features a five-year, 60,000 mile warranty for their customers, providing the peace of mind to know that in the event of an issue, everything is covered. Oh, and the powertrain warranty? The Outlander features 10-years and 100,000 miles, while the Honda can muster only five years and 60,000 miles.
While the crossover market is crowded, a little digging shows that one vehicle rises above all others. The 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander has the style, roominess, technology and fuel efficiency to wow even the most prepared shopper. The CR-V? At least Honda knows which vehicle it needs to benchmark for the next re-design.
