Toyota RAV4 vs. Mitsubishi Outlander Review

Utility
The RAV4 and Outlander compact SUVs both have seating for up to seven occupants when equipped with a 50/50-split folding third-row seat on either cloth or leather upholstery. The RAV4 bests the Outlander in most interior room categories, including maximum trunk volume at 36.4 compared to the Outlander's 36.2; however notable difference is in rear legroom, where the Outlander provides 36.8 inches compared to the RAV's 38.3 inches. A roof rack is available on the RAV4 and the Outlander has a liftgate. Both offer a maximum cargo capacity of 73 cubic feet and are able to tow up to 1,500 pounds; however, the RAV4 offers eight more cubic feet of passenger volume than the Outlander.

Performance
Both SUVs offer V-6 upgrades and can be had in two- and four-wheel-drive configurations. The RAV4 can be equipped with a 179-horsepower, 2.5-liter inline-4 or 269-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 coupled to a four- or five-speed automatic transmission, while the Outlander offers two versions of its 2.4-liter inline-4.  One that makes 161 horsepower and the other 168, and a 230-horsepower, 3.0-liter V-6 engine. Transmission options include a six-speed CVT with auto-manual shift and six-speed automatic with auto-manual shift.

Fuel Economy
Efficiency is an important quality to have these days and both the RAV4 and Outlander are competitive in this category; however, the RAV4 is slightly more efficient with EPA estimated fuel economy ratings ranging between 19-22 mpg in the city and 26-28 mpg on the highway compared to the Outlander's 18-21 mpg in the city and 24-27 mpg on the highway. If you're worried about your carbon footprint, both the RAV4 and Outlander emit 7.7 tons of carbon annually.

Technology
The RAV4 is kind of light on its standard offerings like air conditioning, power windows and locks and remote keyless entry; however, optional features are abound, including integrated XM Radio, a navigation system and backseat entertainment system, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated seats and a moonroof. A Sports Appearance Package includes an upgraded JBL sound system, Bluetooth hands-free capability, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and a backup camera. The Outlander offers similar features and can be equipped with a 650-watt Rockford Fosgate stereo with a six-CD changer and satellite radio; however, heated seats are not available.

Safety
When it comes to passenger protection, both the RAV4 and Outlander are at the forefront in their class with a full compliment of airbags, active front head restraints, antilock brakes with brake assist (only RAV4) and an electronic stability control system. The major differences are the Outlander does not have brake assist and the RAV4 does not have an anti-theft alarm system.

Other
The RAV4's Sport Appearance Package, available on two-wheel-drive, four-cylinder Sport models, is a new feature for 2010. An optional JBL audio system with hands-free Bluetooth capability and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls is available on the Sport trim and a backup camera is a new option for base models.