A comparison between the new Mitsubishi Outlander and the Ford Escape yields interesting results. On one hand, you have a capable but unpopular offering from a struggling Japanese automaker, and on the other, you have one of the most popular crossovers on the market from one of the most successful automakers in the world.
The Outlander has been thoroughly refreshed for 2016 to make it more competitive with segment leaders like the Escape. But does the Outlander offer anything that will really turn heads?
See a side-by-side comparison of the Outlander & Escape »
What the Outlander Gets Right
The Outlander is available in three trims: the ES, SE and GT. The SE and GT are both available with a choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Power comes from a 166-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder or a 224-horsepower 3-liter V6, paired to a continuously variable or six-speed automatic transmission.
The Outlander comes with a pop-up third row that boosts seating capacity to seven and folds completely flat when not in use. The interior receives several improvements this year, including upgraded fabrics, a padded center armrest, and better-looking trim.
What the Escape Gets Right
The current Escape started gaining praise from the moment it debuted. Along with expressive styling inside and out, the Escape boasts responsive handling and overall nimbleness that make it a very satisfying daily driver. High-quality materials are deployed throughout the cabin, and the sweeping dashboard is exceptionally attractive and functional.
Fuel economy is quite good with any of the three available four-cylinder engines. The top choice, a 240-horsepower
2-liter turbo, delivers a potent combo of power and efficiency.
Can the Outlander Compete?
The Outlander certainly looks better inside and out than it did last year. It's also a tad quieter, and carries the right amount of equipment for this class. Yes, it's competitive, but not superior in any major way.
The Outlander is a good crossover, but not a great one. That compliment goes to the Escape for now.
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