​When comparing the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander vs. 2024 Subaru Forester, both deliver impressive capabilities for adventure seekers. The Outlander offers versatile seven-passenger seating and a superior towing capacity of 2,000 pounds, while the Forester's price and fuel efficiency set it apart.
Performance and Capabilities
The Outlander features a 2.5-liter I-4 engine producing 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission. This powertrain enables the Outlander to reach 60 mph in 8.2 seconds, significantly quicker than the Forester's 9.3-second time. The Outlander achieves a cornering force of 0.85 g on the skidpad, outperforming the Forester's 0.77 g. The Outlander's ground clearance measures 8.3 inches, allowing for confident off-road navigation. The Mitsubishi SUV's braking performance is superior, stopping from 70 mph in 172 feet compared to the Forester's 181 feet.
Advanced Off-Road Technology
The Outlander's Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system optimizes power distribution across all wheels for enhanced traction and stability. Multiple drive modes, including Tarmac, Gravel, Snow, Normal, and Eco, adapt performance for varying conditions. Active yaw control manages torque between the left and right wheels for enhanced cornering capability. The Forester's X-Mode assists with off-road traction but requires upgrading to higher trims for availability.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Mitsubishi Outlander provides 40.6 inches of front headroom and 41.7 inches of front legroom. Second-row passengers enjoy 39.1 inches of headroom and 39.9 inches of legroom. Total passenger volume measures 125.5 cubic feet, surpassing the Forester's 111.6 cubic feet. With all seats folded, the Outlander offers 79.7 cubic feet of cargo space. The interior features premium materials throughout, with available quilted leather seats and a panoramic sunroof on higher trim levels. A 9-inch touch-screen display offers intuitive access to entertainment and vehicle controls, which is larger than the Forester's 8-inch touch screen.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The Outlander's exceptional safety features include 11 standard airbags — four more than the Forester. Standard safety technologies include forward collision warning, automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The multiview camera system provides enhanced visibility for safer maneuvering in tight spaces. Adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist are available on higher trim levels.
The Outlander earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and received a Good rating in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's side impact tests.
Efficiency and Range
The Outlander achieves 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway ratings with a 14.5-gallon fuel tank. While the Forester offers slightly better efficiency at 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, the Outlander balances fuel economy with superior versatility. The Outlander's available plug-in hybrid variant provides an eco-friendly option with electric-only driving capability and starts at $40,445.
Long-Term Value
The Outlander's average annual maintenance costs of $519 represent significant savings compared to industry standards. This advantage combines with class-leading warranty coverage to provide exceptional long-term value. The comprehensive five-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage demonstrate Mitsubishi's confidence in reliability. Additionally, Mitsubishi provides five years of unlimited-mileage roadside assistance compared to Subaru's three-year/36,000-mile coverage. The Forester's probability of requiring major repairs within the first five years is 22% lower than similar vehicles.
Purchase Options
With a starting MSRP of $28,395, the Outlander presents strong value. Multiple available trim levels allow buyers to select their ideal feature combination. The Forester's base price of $27,095 is slightly lower, but fewer trim options limit customization. The Outlander includes standard features such as satellite radio and keyless ignition that are only available on higher Forester trims.
Reliability and Protection
Mitsubishi's warranty package provides superior protection against unexpected repairs. Both vehicles received 7.9 out of 10 ratings from Edmunds, but the Outlander's significantly longer warranty coverage offers greater peace of mind. The Outlander's lower estimated repair costs of $730 over five years compared to the Forester's $945 further enhances its value proposition.
Your Next Adventure Awaits
The Mitsubishi Outlander stands out with its versatile seven-passenger seating, superior towing capacity, and comprehensive S-AWC system. The extensive warranty coverage and lower maintenance costs deliver exceptional long-term value. While the Forester offers slightly better fuel economy, the Outlander's advantages in technology, safety, and overall capability make it the superior choice if you need space, reliability, and capability in your SUV.
Here are some of the Outlander's top advantages:
- Seven-passenger seating capacity
- Superior 2,000-pound towing capacity
- Advanced S-AWC system
- Longer warranty coverage
- Higher NHTSA safety rating
- Larger 9-inch infotainment display
- More trim options
Some additional things to think about with the Outlander include:
- Lower fuel economy
- Higher starting price
- Less cargo space behind the second row
The Subaru Forester offers the following advantages:
- Better fuel efficiency
- Lower starting price
- Higher ground clearance
- Standard all-wheel drive
- More second-row cargo space
The Forester also has these downsides:
- Five-passenger limit
- Lower towing capacity
- Fewer trim options
- Shorter warranty coverage
- Smaller infotainment screen
Get Ready for Your Next Journey at Boardman Mitsubishi
The Outlander's extensive warranty coverage, comprehensive safety features, and lower maintenance costs offer exceptional value. While the Forester has slightly better fuel economy, the Outlander's advantages in technology, space, and capability make it the ideal choice if you're seeking adventure and reliability in your SUV. Our friendly team at Boardman Mitsubishi in Boardman, Ohio, can answ