In the ever-evolving world of hybrid SUVs, two contenders stand out for 2025: the Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid and the Honda CR-V Hybrid. These vehicles represent the cutting edge of eco-friendly family transportation, each offering a unique blend of efficiency, performance, and features. As consumers increasingly prioritize fuel economy and environmental impact alongside traditional SUV attributes, this comparison delves into the key differences between these two popular models, helping you make an informed decision in a competitive market.
Powertrain and Performance
Performance is a crucial differentiator when comparing hybrid SUVs. The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid leads with its 2.4L four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor delivering a robust 248 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. The 2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid features a 2.0L four-cylinder engine plus an electric motor that produces 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. This makes the Outlander Plug-in Hybrid the stronger performer, as it offers more power and torque — important if you prioritize performance when analyzing car comparison specs.
Fuel Efficiency and Electric Range
While 2025 figures are unavailable, the 2024 Outlander consumes 25.6 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. In contrast, the 2024 CR-V Hybrid boasts a fuel economy of 39.2 mpg in the city and 34.1 mpg on the highway. Despite the CR-V's advantage in fuel efficiency, the Outlander Plug-in Hybrid offers an all-electric EPA-estimated range of approximately 38 miles, allowing you to reduce your fuel consumption drastically on short commutes. The Outlander Plug-in Hybrid stands out if you're interested in plug-in capabilities and potential fuel savings for city driving.
Seating Capacity and Cargo Space
Seating capacity is another crucial factor for families or those who frequently travel with passengers. The Outlander Plug-in Hybrid accommodates seven passengers, providing an extra row compared to the CR-V Hybrid's five-passenger limit. This makes the Outlander ideal for larger families. Concerning cargo space, the CR-V Hybrid offers 76.5 cubic feet, surpassing the Outlander's 64.7 cubic feet. However, this extra space often comes as a trade-off for the third-row seating in the Outlander.
Towing Capacity
The Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid has a definite edge if you need to tow. Its towing capacity is 1,500 pounds compared to the Honda CR-V Hybrid's 1,000 pounds. This makes it a more versatile choice for adventurous families who want to tow their gear.
Pricing and Value
The base MSRP for the Outlander Plug-in Hybrid is $40,445, marginally higher than the CR-V Hybrid's at $34,650. While the Outlander Plug-in Hybrid presents a higher upfront cost, its plug-in capabilities may offer long-term savings, especially if you use electric driving frequently. Tax incentives for plug-in hybrids may also be available, further increasing this model's value proposition. When you're ready to buy, you can contact our finance center team to explore all your financing options.
Warranty Coverage
Mitsubishi stands out with its 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, offering added peace of mind over Honda's five-year/60,000-mile coverage. This extended warranty makes the Outlander Plug-in Hybrid a strong contender from a value perspective, ensuring the car remains protected for longer.
Features and Technology
Infotainment
The technology packages available in hybrid SUVs can significantly enhance your driving experience. The Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid offer modern infotainment systems with smartphone integration, navigation, and premium audio systems. While you should explore specifics on screen sizes and unique features from each model's website, the Outlander Plug-in Hybrid typically emphasizes user-friendly interfaces and seamless integration with modern devices.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount, and both models come with advanced driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. However, the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid offers unique safety technologies, such as an available multiview camera system, which can enhance parking and maneuvering in tight spaces.
Comfort and Convenience
Both vehicles offer comfort features such as heated seats, automatic climate control, and a power liftgate. The Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid offers some standout features, including an available panoramic sunroof and configurable interior layouts, which can give your passengers a more enjoyable ride, especially on long journeys.
Driving Experience
You can rate your driving experience on many factors, including handling and overall ride quality. The Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid provides a refined drive that balances power and comfort. Its electric mode offers a quiet, smooth driving experience, making it especially attractive for urban commutes. In contrast, the Honda CR-V Hybrid prioritizes efficiency and reliable handling, which appeals to eco-conscious drivers.
Design and Styling
The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid boast modern aesthetics. The Outlander Plug-in Hybrid presents a more aggressive look with its bold lines and dynamic front fascia. Inside, the materials reflect a premium feel with attention to detail that appeals to those who prioritize attractiveness in their car feature comparison. Meanwhile, the CR-V Hybrid has a more conservative style but offers a spacious and practical interior space.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Take these advantages and disadvantages into consideration as you weigh the value of these two vehicle options:
- Outlander Plug-in Hybrid Pros
- Higher power and torque
- Plug-in hybrid capability
- Seven-passenger seating
- Superior towing capacity
- Longer warranty coverage
- Outlander Plug-in Hybrid Cons
- Slightly higher starting price
- Lower fuel economy in hybrid mode
- Less cargo space
- CR-V Hybrid Pros
- Better overall fuel economy
- More cargo space
- Potentially lower starting price
- CR-V Hybrid Cons
- Less power and torque
- No plug-in capability or all-electric range
- Five-passenger seating only
- Lower towing capacity
- Shorter warranty coverage
Discover the Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid in Boardman, Ohio
Choosing between the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid and the Honda CR-V Hybrid depends on what you value most in a vehicle. If power, versatility, and advanced plug-in capabilities resonate with you, the Outlander Plug-in Hybrid is a superior choice. Its towing capacity, seating flexibility, and robust warranty make it an excellent investment.
If you're interested in experiencing the Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid firsthand, we encourage you to visit our Boardman Mitsubishi dealership for a test-drive to understand its capabilities and explore how it can fit your lifestyle needs.