2010 Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Its Competition

Bengt Halvorson Senior Editor

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.