Mitsubishi Outlander vs Subaru Crosstrek

The Mitsubishi Outlander starts from $39,990 before on-road costs, while the Subaru Crosstrek opens at $38,990. That makes the Subaru Crosstrek the more affordable entry point by $1,000.

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 $42,889 respectively.

Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.

Both the Mitsubishi Outlander and Subaru Crosstrek hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 85% for the Mitsubishi Outlander and 83% for the Subaru Crosstrek.

Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. We can confirm 5 of 10 key ADAS systems on the Subaru Crosstrek, against 4 on 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 9 in the Subaru Crosstrek.

A recall covers the builds its notice lists, not every car of a model. Check your VIN at vehiclerecalls.gov.au.

The Mitsubishi Outlander features a 12.3-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the Subaru Crosstrek gets a 11.6-inch display and 4.2-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.

The Mitsubishi Outlander stands out with Apple CarPlay and Yamaha audio — features our data doesn't list for the Subaru Crosstrek. The Subaru Crosstrek counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, panoramic roof, heated front seats and power tailgate. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.

The Mitsubishi Outlander uses a Petrol producing 135kW and 244Nm of torque, sent through a cvt automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.7 seconds.

The Subaru Crosstrek responds with a Petrol making 115kW and 196Nm, paired to a cvt driving all four wheels.

The Mitsubishi Outlander has the clear power advantage at 135kW vs 115kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.

The Mitsubishi Outlander measures 4,720mm long on a 2,706mm wheelbase, 225mm longer than the Subaru Crosstrek at 4,495mm (2,670mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mitsubishi Outlander generally means more rear legroom.

Boot space is 485L in the Mitsubishi Outlander and 291L in the Subaru Crosstrek, giving the Mitsubishi Outlander a 194L advantage.

For towing, the Mitsubishi Outlander leads with a 1,600kg braked capacity vs 1,400kg. That 200kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.

Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,138/year for the Mitsubishi Outlander and $2,052/year for the Subaru Crosstrek. That is a $86 annual difference in favour of the Subaru Crosstrek.

Warranty: 10 years / 200,000km (Mitsubishi Outlander) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru Crosstrek). The Mitsubishi Outlander has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: —5yr (Subaru Crosstrek).