2022 Mitsubishi Outlander vs Hyundai Tuscon

The similarities between the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander and the Hyundai Tucson are striking. That said, it's the little differences that help drivers decide which of these two SUVs is going to be the better choice. We compare the features and characteristics of both, alongside a look at some other models such as the Ford Escape, the Subaru Forester and the Hyundai Santa Fe that may be of interest.

Features

One of the biggest differences between the two vehicles is the range of engine options available. The Outlander comes with a standard petrol engine (with a hybrid to follow later in the year). The Tucson comes in a petrol variant, with turbo and turbo-diesel options to come later in 2022.

Read Our Complete Review Of The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander

Exterior and Interior

Whilst the Tucson 2022 restyle includes plenty of dark chrome, a black grille and alloys (but sadly still no LED headlights), the Outlander has been scaled up a little and undergone some minor styling tweaks that have smoothed away some of the sharp edges. The Tucson's styling is certainly striking, but may not be for everyone.

Inside, both interiors are spacious and well-appointed. The Tucson probably has the edge when it comes to styling, and Apple Carplay and Android Auto are standard across all trims.

Features such as a sunroof, Bose Speakers, tri-zone climate control, vents, and adjustable seats are common to both vehicles.

The Engine

Currently, both vehicles are available with a 2l, air-aspirated 4-cylinder petrol engine that delivers 125kw and 245Nm of torque in the case of the Outlander and 115kw and 192Nm of torque with respect to the Tucson. Reviewers praise the handling of both cars, but aren't impressed by the lack of acceleration. Although a bit of power in the pedal probably isn't a priority in a seven-seater SUV, it's a shame neither of these offers a particularly nippy driving experience.

The Tucson has got both a 1.6l turbo and a 2.0l turbo-diesel coming on stream later in the year. The Outlander has a hybrid version arriving soon. For drivers who like some power, or drivers who want an EV, it's probably worth waiting a few months and seeing what the new variants have to offer.

Fuel efficiency for both petrol engines is a middle-of-the-range 8.1l/100km.

Tech

The Tucson probably has the slight edge when it comes to tech - the 10.25" infotainment screen, for example, and the digital instrument cluster are both nice additions to the interior. The Outlander sports a more modest 9" infotainment screen and some reviewers feel its tech to be slightly dated.

Safety

Both 5-star ANCAP rated, it's worth noting that the Outlander doesn't have curtain airbags in the third row. The third row in the Outlander also lacks ISOFIX points, so it's unsuitable for car seats (although could be used for older children who ride on a booster seat).

A good range of autonomous safety features are available, but some are only available in the higher specs, or at an additional cost as an add-on.

See 7 Of The Best Cars For Road Trips In Australia

Pricing

A base-spec Tucson starts at $34,500 before on-road costs. At the top of the range, a Highlander N-line will set you back $53,000. In contrast, the entry-level Outlander is $41,490, with the Exceed Tourer coming in at $53,490.

Related: 7 SUVs Under $40,000 In Australia

Pros

Outlander

- 10-year warranty available (with capped service charges as the 10-year warrant includes servicing at dealer-only outlets).
- Striking exterior.
- Good range of features

Tucson

- High-grade tech, especially in the more expensive models.
- Great handling.

Cons

Outlander

- Lack of power
- Mediocre tech

Tucson

- Lack of power.
- No LED headlights

Final Verdict

Both the Tucson and the Outlander tick all the right boxes when it comes to SUV essentials. They're both safe, comfortable and spacious. Beyond that, the best vehicle for the job largely comes down to what matters to you in your car.

For many potential new owners, it's probably going to be best to wait a few months until the other variants of both the Tucson and the Outlander are released. The turbo and turbo-diesel Tucson, for example, may provide the muscle beneath the bonnet that some drivers are looking for. If you want an EV, the forthcoming Outlander PHEV could be just the thing.

Neither of the two petrol variants is a bad investment, but, on the other hand, neither is at the top of its class. If you favour tech, the Tucson is probably going to be the better option. If you like the Outlander's more dramatic styling, that's going to be the SUV for you. The 10-year warranty is a good reason to consider the Outlander, although both the entry price and the price of the top model are higher than the equivalent Hyundai options.

If you want to open up your options a little, why not consider one of the other SUV options listed below?

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Other Options To Consider

Hyundai Santa Fe

If you want to stick with Hyundai, but really could do with those extra two third-row seats, the Santa Fe could be the one for you. Benefiting from the usual great range of tech, features and innovations that are typical of Hyundai, the extra space provides room for two more passengers to have a little more space - perfect for a larger family.

Find Out How The Santa Fe Compares To The Hyundai Tucson

Subaru Forester

For drivers who spend a good amount of time off-road, the Forester could be a strong option. Reviewers rave about its off-road performance, and with fuel consumption advertised as around 7.41l/100km, it's less thirsty than either the Outlander or the Tucson. The Forester may not be to everyone's taste in terms of looks, but its strong driving performance means it's worth a second glance.

Read Our Subaru Forester vs Ford Escape Comparison

Ford Escape

If you're thinking of investing in an electric vehicle, but don't want to pay over the odds, take a look at the PHEV Escape. $52,940 before on-road costs, it's not that much more expensive than a high-spec Outlander or Tucson, but is going to cost you a lot less in fuel. Note that the Escape is currently still only a five-seater, although Ford tells us that a seven-seater is in the pipeline.

See Our Ford Escape vs Mitsubishi Outlander Comparison

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