The most direct rival to the 2010 Outlander is likely the Toyota RAV4 Sport, which, like the Outlander, can be equipped with a small third-row seat.
The RAV4 is much more refined and agreeable with the base four-cylinder engine, while its optional V-8 is even more powerful.
The Forester is another top rival; in this case, too, the standard four in the Outlander doesn’t seem nearly as strong as the standard flat-four in the Subaru, even though their power figures are close.
The Mazda CX-7 seats only five, but it's perceived as a more complete performance package, with very comfortable seating, sporty suspension tuning, and a rorty turbocharged engine; for 2010 there's also a new base version, with a still-adequate 2.5-liter four, that costs a bit less.
The Forester and CR-V remain the best for those who are safety-minded; they're both IIHS Top Safety Picks.
For those who don't need a third row but want a roomy, comfortable interior, the Honda CR-V is probably the best pick, though it's not nearly as engaging to drive.
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 2010 Mitsubishi OutlanderBrowse Used Listings |  2010 Honda CR-VBrowse Used Listings |  2010 Mazda CX-7Browse Used Listings |  2010 Subaru ForesterBrowse Used Listings |  2010 Toyota RAV4Browse Used Listings |
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| Quick Specs | ||||
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The Mitsubishi Outlander has a sportier look and feel than most crossover utes—and it gets better for 2010. |
The 2010 Honda CR-V is a bit homely, but it fits right in for those placing the priority on frugality, safety, and interior space. |
If you want the driving experience of a sports sedan but need the versatility of a wagon, the 2010 Mazda CX-7 remains one of the better choices. |
The 2010 Subaru Forester may not be as powerful or well-equipped as its rivals, but it really shines in its more carlike dynamics and superior handling. |
Though it might wear a spare tire on its tail like the hard-core SUVs of yore, don't let that throw you off. The 2010 Toyota RAV4 is actually a practical, fuel-efficient choice for frugal families on the go. |
| MSRP From | ||||
| $20,840 | $21,545 | $21,700 | $20,295 | $21,675 |
| Gas Mileage | ||||
| 18 MPG City / 27 MPG Hwy | 21 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy | 19 MPG City / 27 MPG Hwy | 19 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | ||||
| Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas Flat 4-Cyl | Gas I4 |
| EPA Class | ||||
| 2WD Sport Utility | 2WD Sport Utility | 2WD Sport Utility Vehicles | 4WD Sport Utility | 2WD Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Style Name | ||||
| 2WD 4-Door ES | 2WD 5-Door LX | FWD 4-Door i SV | 4-Door Manual 2.5X | FWD 4-Door 4-cyl 4-Speed AT (GS) |
| Drivetrain | ||||
| Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | ||||
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | ||||
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | ||||
| 4-Door Wagon | 5 Door | 4 Door Sport Utility Vehicle | 4 Door | 4 Door |
| Transmission | ||||
| CVT | Automatic | Automatic w/OD | Manual w/OD | Automatic w/OD |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
| 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander vs. 2010 Honda CR-V | 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander vs. 2010 Mazda CX-7 | 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander vs. 2010 Subaru Forester | 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander vs. 2010 Toyota RAV4 | |
