Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV vs Toyota RAV4 Prime
SUVs quickly became the most popular vehicle type, but their fuel economy has always been a sticking point for drivers who want to cut down on their visits to the pump. The introduction of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) into the SUV class has changed everything.
An Original vs a New PHEV
One of the most unique things about the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is that it was introduced in 2013, long before other car manufacturers got into the PHEV and fully electric vehicle (EV) game. Its history has shown the reliability and longevity of PHEVs, while the Toyota RAV4 Prime was only introduced for the 2021 model year.
Outlander vs RAV4 - Price
Starting at $44,198, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is Canada's best-selling plug-in hybrid SUV. It is offered in four trim levels: SE S-AWC, LE S-AWC, Black Edition S-AWC, and GT S-AWC. The entr-level SE comes standard with heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, rearview camera, Mitsubishi remote control, and more.
Starting at $44,990, Toyota offers the RAV4 Prime in two model versions across Canada: SE and XSE. The entry-level SE offers 18-inch wheels, heated front and rear seats, dual zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen, and smartphone connectivity.
Outlander vs RAV4 - Engine
Mitsubishi built the Outlander PHEV with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine that generates 221 horsepower. It comes with a PHEV twin motor system, paddle shifters for regenerative braking, and Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) with Drive Mode Selector (normal/lock/snow/sport).
The Toyota RAV4 Prime does offer a bit more power. It is built with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine that delivers 302 net horsepower.
Outlander vs RAV4 - Handling
While the Toyota RAV4 Prime offers more horsepower, Toyota failed to back up its muscular powertrain with any sort of dynamic athleticism. The RAV4 Prime has abysmal handling thanks to vague steering and prevalent body roll. The brakes are also overly soft, which has resulted in low scores for stopping performance.
On the other hand, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV offers a quiet and comfortable ride on all road surfaces. Its unique S-AWC system offers cornering capability that is unmatched by rivals.
Outlander vs RAV4 - Design
Mitsubishi is overhauling the Outlander PHEV for the 2022 model year, bringing it back with three rows of seating instead of just two. It is the first vehicle to be produced under a Mitsubishi and Nissan alliance, and its exterior design is entirely distinct with a prominent grille, lots of chrome trim, and an interesting lighting arrangement. The inside is just as fresh and clean with higher quality materials and forward-thinking design.
The RAV4 Prime does not offer a distinctly different look than its gas-powered siblings. Its exterior is nicely designed, but it also looks a lot like other small SUVs. In addition, the interior can only hold five passengers as it does not have the third-row versatility offered by the Outlander PHEV.
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV vs Toyota RAV4 Prime
Fairly evenly matched in terms of performance and price, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV wins over drivers in Halifax with its completely new and improved exterior and interior design that can hold more passengers and offer more versatility than the RAV4 Prime.