Mitsubishi Outlander vs Nissan X-Trail
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Mitsubishi Outlander starts from $39,990 before on-road costs, while the Nissan X-Trail opens at $38,140. That makes the Nissan X-Trail the more affordable entry point by $1,850.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $43,989 and $41,954 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Mitsubishi Outlander and Nissan X-Trail hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 85% for the Mitsubishi Outlander and 91% for the Nissan X-Trail.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Nissan X-Trail packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 4 in the Mitsubishi Outlander.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the Mitsubishi Outlander and 7 in the Nissan X-Trail.
Feature Showdown
The Mitsubishi Outlander features a 12.3-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the Nissan X-Trail gets a 8-inch display and 7-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mitsubishi Outlander stands out with Yamaha audio that you will not find on the Nissan X-Trail. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mitsubishi Outlander uses a Petrol producing 135kW and 244Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.7 seconds.
The Nissan X-Trail lines up making 135kW and 244Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8 seconds.
Power output is identical on paper, so the difference comes down to tuning, weight distribution, and suspension. In the real-world sprint, the Nissan X-Trail is 0.7s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mitsubishi Outlander measures 4,710mm long on a 2,705mm wheelbase, 30mm longer than the Nissan X-Trail at 4,680mm (2,705mm wheelbase).
Boot space is 478L in the Mitsubishi Outlander and 205L in the Nissan X-Trail, giving the Mitsubishi Outlander a 273L advantage. Fold the rears and you get 1500L vs 782L.
For towing, the Mitsubishi Outlander leads with a 2,000kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m to 11.0m
Based on 11.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,081/year for the Mitsubishi Outlander and $2,109/year for the Nissan X-Trail. That is a $28 annual difference in favour of the Mitsubishi Outlander.
Estimated annual total: $2,081 (Mitsubishi Outlander) vs $2,109 (Nissan X-Trail). The Mitsubishi Outlander saves you roughly $28 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 10 years / 200,000km (Mitsubishi Outlander) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Nissan X-Trail). The Mitsubishi Outlander has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mitsubishi Outlander if: You need more boot space, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Mitsubishi's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Nissan X-Trail if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Nissan's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Mitsubishi Outlander takes 4 of 6 key spec categories. The Mitsubishi Outlander will save you roughly $28 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Mitsubishi Outlander has a clear edge. The Mitsubishi Outlander adds peace of mind with a longer 10-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Mitsubishi Outlander and Nissan X-Trail?
The Nissan X-Trail is the cheapest at $38,140 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Mitsubishi Outlander by $1,850.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Mitsubishi Outlander uses the least fuel at 7.3L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Mitsubishi Outlander and Nissan X-Trail all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Mitsubishi Outlander has the largest boot at 478L.
Which can tow the most?
The Mitsubishi Outlander has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,000kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Mitsubishi Outlander has the longest warranty at 10 years / 200k km.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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