Mitsubishi Outlander Vs. Toyota Highlander Comparison

The Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Toyota Highlander matchup pits two spacious SUVS with three-row seating against one another to determine which is the better fit for drivers and their families. See the Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Toyota Highlander reviews, as shown in our comparison below, and you'll discover why the Outlander is a formidable competitor in the midsize crossover SUV segment. Visit Wally's Mitsubishi Watertown to test-drive one when you're ready!
Mitsubishi Outlander at a Glance
- Advanced 4WD Technology Available: Offered with the Mitsubishi brand's signature Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system for enhanced traction and capability
- Spacious Seating and Flexible Cargo Space: Roomy seven-passenger seating and quick-folding seats that can accommodate cargo
- Rear Safety Technologies: Equipped with a suite of advanced safety features, including Rear Parking Sensors and Rear Automatic Emergency Braking
- Next-Level Warranty: Every new Outlander SUV comes backed by a superb 10-year or 100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty1
Toyota Highlander at a Glance
- Towing Capacity: Offers a maximum tow rating of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped
- Interior Space: Ample cabin space with three-row seating and an expandable cargo hold
- Advanced Safety Systems: Comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of advanced driver assistance features
- Infotainment Technology: Equipped with a user-friendly touch screen, smartphone integration, and an available premium audio system

Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Toyota Highlander Safety Features
Most drivers prioritize safety when they're shopping for a family-sized SUV. If protecting your precious cargo from all angles is your goal, consider the new Mitsubishi Outlander as your next SUV.
When comparing the Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Highlander in terms of safety features, the Mitsubishi model holds several advantages. It comes standard with the following advanced safety systems and driver assistance technologies:
- Blind Spot Warning with Lane Change Assist
- Forward Collision Mitigation with Pedestrian Detection
- Rear Automatic Emergency Braking
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Rear Parking Sensors
The Toyota Highlander also has a standard safety suite called Toyota Safety Sense.
While both SUVs come standard with advanced driver assistance technologies for a safer drive, only the Mitsubishi Outlander boasts a comprehensive package of standard safety systems that monitor, alert, and react to changing traffic conditions behind your vehicle. It has your back with Rear Parking Sensors, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Rear Automatic Emergency Braking.

Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Toyota Highlander Exterior
If you're shopping for a new SUV that's sporty yet spacious, the Mitsubishi Outlander should impress you. It's smaller and more agile than the Toyota Highlander but still provides expansive three-row seating, allowing up to seven passengers to sit in complete comfort.
The Toyota Highlander exterior measures 194.9 inches long, 76 inches wide, and 68.1 inches tall and features a 112.2-inch wheelbase.
The smaller, more maneuverable Mitsubishi Outlander stands 68.7 inches tall, 185.4 inches long, and 74.7 inches wide. Its shorter 106.5-inch wheelbase provides a tighter turning diameter than that of the Toyota SUV.

Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Toyota Highlander Interior
The comfortable seven-seat cabin of the Outlander SUV offers the following available amenities:
- 12.3-inch full digital driver display
- Synthetic leather suede seating surfaces
- Heated front seats
- FAST-Key Entry System
- Three-zone automatic climate control
- Heated rear seats
- Genuine leather seating surfaces
- 9-inch navigation system with Smartphone-Link Display Audio
- Multi-View Camera System
- Heated steering wheel
The Toyota Highlander offers seating for up to eight passengers, but even with its larger interior, occupants might find that space is limited when all the seats are full.
Shopping for a Toyota Highlander SUV brings the following available interior features:
- 12.3-inch fully digital gauge cluster
- Panoramic moonroof
- Wireless charging
- Heated front seats
- Two-tone interior
- Five USB ports
- Fabric, SofTex, or leather seating surfaces
2024 Mitsubishi Outlander ES | 2024 Toyota Highlander LE | |
Engine | 2.5L I-4 | 2.4L I-4 Turbo |
EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy) | 24 / 312 | 22 / 293 |
Drive Type (Standard) | FWD | FWD |
Drive Type (Available) | S-AWC | AWD |
Curb Weight | 3,593 lbs | 4,155 lbs |
Legroom (1st / 2nd Row) | 41.7 / 39.9 in | 42 / 38.7 in |

Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Toyota Highlander Performance
Both SUVs are powered by an inline four-cylinder engine, with the vehicles in our Mitsubishi Outlander inventory equipped with a 2.5-liter engine. The Outlander PHEV model has a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The Toyota Highlander sports a traditional AWD system, while the Outlander offers a signature Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system. Both systems send power to all four wheels and provide extra grip when the road turns slick, but the Mitsubishi Outlander SUV's S-AWC is engineered for better control and confidence in all driving situations.

Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Toyota Highlander MPG
The Outlander SUV's standard 2.5-liter inline-four engine and front-wheel drive enable this versatile vehicle to return up to an EPA-estimated 24/31 MPG (City/Highway)2 rating, which tops the Toyota Highlander gas mileage.
The Highlander features a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive, resulting in up to a projected EPA-estimated 22/29 MPG (City/Highway).3

Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Toyota Highlander Towing Capacity
When you compare other Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Toyota Highlander specs, you'll find that the Highlander SUV can tow more than the Outlander can. The Highlander tows up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
The more fuel-efficient option, the Mitsubishi Outlander, can tow up to 2,000 pounds when properly equipped. Neither of these midsize crossover SUVs is intended to tow large boats or trailer heavy equipment – those duties are better suited for a full-size truck or SUV.
Contact Wally's Mitsubishi Watertown for More Details
Wally's Mitsubishi Watertown can tell you more about the Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Highlander when you contact our sales team. Until then, you can also check out our comparison of the Outlander vs. Outlander PHEV, in case you're also considering the plug-in hybrid variant of this spacious SUV.
See our competitive Mitsubishi lease deals and finance offers now so you can upgrade to a versatile and value-packed SUV soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What safety features are included in both the Mitsubishi Outlander and the Toyota Highlander, and how do they compare in terms of crash test ratings?
The Mitsubishi Outlander and Toyota Highlander each come with a safety suite. Still, the Outlander also gets a package of Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Automatic Emergency Braking, and Rear Parking Sensors not found on the Highlander. Both the new Mitsubishi Outlander and the new Toyota Highlander SUVs have earned a Top Safety Pick designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).4
What are the available engine options for both the Mitsubishi Outlander and the Toyota Highlander?
The new Mitsubishi Outlander SUV for sale is equipped with a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine paired with standard front-wheel drive or available Super All-Wheel Control. A plug-in hybrid powertrain is offered but only found on the Outlander PHEV model. The Highlander is fitted with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, while the Highlander Hybrid gets a gas-electric powertrain.
Are there any notable differences in the interior design and comfort of the Mitsubishi Outlander and the Toyota Highlander?
Some of the key differences in the interior layout and comfort of the Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Toyota Highlander SUV models include their standard seating capacity and available seating surface materials. The new Outlander SUV for sale offers a seven-passenger interior, while the Highlander boasts seating for seven or eight occupants. Only the Outlander offers available synthetic leather suede seating surfaces.
1All coverage terms are from the original in-service dates and are applicable only to the original owner of new, retailed models purchased from an authorized Mitsubishi dealer. Subsequent owners receive the balance of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty of 5 years/60,000 miles, whichever occurs first. See retailer for limited warranty and roadside assistance terms and conditions.
22024 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates: 24 City/31 Highway/27 Combined for Outlander ES, SE, SEL 2WD; 24 City/30 Highway/26 Combined for Outlander ES, SE & SEL S-AWC. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.
3Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See fueleconomy.gov.
4Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit www.iihs.org.