You have a lot of options when shopping for a compact SUV. It’s tempting to just go with one of the big names in this class, but what if you don’t want to drive what everyone else is driving? The Mazda CX-5 and Mitsubishi Outlander don’t have the sales numbers of the class leaders, but they have a lot going for them that makes them worth consideration.
Let’s compare the 2024 Mazda CX-5 and 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander to see how these two match up.
2024 Mazda CX-5
With head-turning styling and sporty driving dynamics, the Mazda CX-5 garners some well-deserved attention. Both inside and out, the CX-5 looks a cut above the competition.
Mazda produces practical vehicles that offer an excellent driving experience. In the case of the CX-5, it can seamlessly tackle various duties, such as hauling people and cargo, daily commuting, etc. Mazda engineers ensure drivers enjoy their time behind the wheel.
With a 187-horsepower base engine, the CX-5 can be a bit of fun. If you upgrade to the optional 2.5-liter turbo that puts out up to 256 horsepower, we’re talking about real performance. Additionally, the cabin is spacious and comfortable. The layout is driver-focused, plus the convenience and safety technology are excellent. Pricing begins at $30,675, including destination fees.
Mazda CX-5 Highlights
Standard AWD: All CX-5 models come with all-wheel drive. Dubbed i-AWD, the system can send power to different wheels according to what’s needed at the moment. It can also revert to front-wheel drive for optimal fuel economy.
Recliners: Some competitors may enjoy more rear passenger space, but few can recline like the back seats of the Mazda CX-5, enhancing comfort.
Powerful engine: Mazda’s 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine already puts out 187 hp, which is already six more than the Outlander. But upgrading to the turbocharged version with premium fuel unlocks another 69 horses, making this practical SUV more exciting to drive.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the CX-5 models for sale near you.
2024 Mitsubishi Outlander
Mitsubishi is best known as a value brand, and the 2024 Outlander drives that message home. Packaged to haul up to seven people thanks to a 3-row setup, a feature the Mazda CX-5 doesn’t offer, the Outlander is available with leading safety and convenience technology in a handsome package.
The Outlander is available in six trim levels, starting with the ES at $29,840, including destination fee, and finishing with the Platinum Edition. Buyers get an option of front-wheel or all-wheel drive with the Outlander, and EPA-estimated fuel economy is affected by just one mpg with the move, dropping from 27 combined mpg to 26 mpg. It may not be a leader in any area, but this SUV does plenty of things well.
Mitsubishi Outlander Highlights
Optional AWD: While front-wheel drive is standard, for an extra $1,800, you can get Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control. Aside from a cool-sounding name, it offers selectable driving modes such as Tarmac, Gravel, Snow, Normal, Eco, and Mud. In short, AWD-specific settings come at the flip of a switch or turn of a dial.
Open sesame: A powered liftgate becomes standard equipment at the SE trim level. Is it revolutionary? No. But when you want it, it’s nice to have it, and it’s nice to see this feature on such an affordable SUV.
Driver clarity: The Outlander offers some impressive technology to make the driver’s life a little easier, starting with a 12.3-inch configurable driver information screen. Not only does it offer the usual information, like speed, but it also puts your turn-by-turn navigation directions up there. And if you don’t want to look down to get that information, a head-up display is part of the SEL Touring package.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Outlander models for sale near you.
Similarities
These are affordable vehicles with plenty of content and good looks inside and out to match.
Conclusion
The ability to carry seven passengers makes the Mitsubishi Outlander an intriguing option if you need a just-in-case third row in your compact SUV. However, far better resale value, standard all-wheel drive, and more power from the base engine (plus the turbocharged upgrade) pushes the Mazda CX-5 ahead ahead in this competition as long as you don’t need room for seven people regularly.
| 2024 Mazda CX-5 | 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander | |
| Starting Price | $30,675 | $29,840 |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder AWD |
| Horsepower | 187 hp @ 6,000 rpm | 181 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 185 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 181 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic | CVT |
| Fuel Economy | 26 city/31 highway/28 combined mpg | 24 city/31 highway/27 combined mpg |
| Also Available | 2.5-liter turbo | AWD |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/360,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 10 years/100,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | 5 stars | 4 stars |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 7 |
| Wheelbase | 106.2 inches | 106.5 inches |
| Overall Length | 180.1 inches | 185.4 inches |
| Width | 72.6 inches | 74.7 inches |
| Height | 65.4 inches | 68.8 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 36.0 feet | 36.1 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 39.7 inches | 40.6 inches |
| Headroom, Rear | 39.0 inches | 39.1 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 41.0 inches | 41.7 inches |
| Legroom, Rear | 39.6 inches | 39.9 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 57.1 inches | 57.9 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Rear | 54.8 inches | 55.9 inches |
| Cargo Volume | 29.1cubic feet | 30.6 cubic feet |
