Toyota Rav 4 or Mitsubishi Outlander - comparison

Appearance

Before starting to review the cars, it is worth noting that in 2021, when both flagships came out with restyled versions, the companies went through a long and not always successful path to Olympus. At the moment, Toyota has an updated version of the 4th generation of the crossover, while its opponent has a restyling of the 3rd generation. The launch of both versions occurred around the same time - 2012-2013. And both models received criticism, both from the point of view of appearance and from the technical equipment.

The appearance of previous versions of both cars was received ambiguously.

seemed too angular and bland. There was nothing eye-catching about him. U

the body turned out to be more modern, but the developers went a little too far, making the car too feminine.

Mitsubishi's 2015 restyling and the updated 2021 Toyota were able to correct the situation. The first acquired numerous inserts and chrome elements, bringing modernity and courage, while the second was given aggression in appearance so that it does not seem so feminine.

Looking at the updated versions of the body, each crossover can be given an “A” for its design. The developers have taken their creations to a new level, providing them with serious competitiveness.

Toyota Highlander

The crossover first saw the world in 2000. Manufacturers presented the Toyota Highlander as a car for young people who prefer an active driving style. The Highlander u40 is compared to the Land Cruiser. The model was restyled in 2010, and this was the first official start of sales in the Russian Federation. The Highlander came to the Russian market with the following power plant characteristics: under the hood there is a 3.5-liter six-cylinder gasoline engine, all-wheel drive.

The car has an impressive appearance and is in no way inferior to a Land Cruiser. Japanese practicality is visible in the design of the new salon. The car will be an excellent companion on long-distance trips. The car copes with off-road conditions “excellently”, residents of Russia know this first-hand. The Highlander skillfully combines sportiness and economy.

This is an excellent car for young families; the main reason for its popularity among them is its high level of safety.

Of the minuses: noise when starting the engine, oil leaks, low idle speeds. Owners praise the five-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Transmission problems are rare in Highlanders. The car is expensive, depending on the configuration and year of manufacture, the price varies between 1.5-2 million rubles. Deciding which is better - Prado 120 or Highlander is difficult. It all depends on what goals are being pursued and what you expect from the car.

Salon

General impression

The spaciousness of passenger seats in both cars is in perfect order.

Toyota Rav4

Mitsubishi Outlander

The Rav 4 has slightly better lateral support. But if we talk about the front seats, then it is more suitable for drivers with a strong build. Thin people without winter clothes will not be very comfortable in them. This, by the way, is a distinctive feature of the first row seats in all Toyota cars of recent years - they are aimed at a “wider” audience.

The downside to the Outlander is the lack of second-row options. There are no heated seats or outlets for charging devices.

The competitor has both. Moreover, heated rear seats are available in all trim levels except the basic version.

In both crossovers, the height of the backrest of the rear sofa is lowered. But the advantage of the Rav4 is that the mechanism for controlling the angle of the backrests is located on the side of the seat, while in the Mitsubishi you need to feel the lever behind your head, which is very inconvenient. Although such a warm-up will be an excellent prevention of chondrosis.

Quality of materials

Now about the interior. The Mitsubishi Outlander's finish looks high-quality, but old-fashioned. The basis is soft plastic, which is pleasant to the touch and pleasing to the eye. But the overall design lacks modernity. The dashboard is a little less readable than in the Toyota. The opponent's interior design looks more modern, but there are shortcomings in ergonomics and choice of materials.

It feels like the designers collected the remnants of all finishing materials and inserted them into this car. There is leather, soft plastic, and hard plastic. However, this does not look harmonious. Although considering the interior is always a matter of taste, and some car owners may like this combination.

But problems with ergonomics are something that no car enthusiast will deny. The main disadvantage of the Rav4 is the location of the buttons on the center console. It is designed in a unique way, and to control some options, for example, heated seats, the driver has to bend over to examine the position of the keys and press them correctly. This causes you to be greatly distracted from the road and creates danger while driving.

Trunk

Let's talk about the luggage compartment. If we compare the maximum configurations with 2.4 liter engines. Mitsubishi Outlander and 2.5 l. Toyota Rav 4, “Rafik” confidently wins this round. Its useful trunk volume is 577 liters. versus 477 hp

Toyota Rav4

Mitsubishi Outlander

This colossal difference of 100 liters is due to the fact that under the luggage compartment platform in the Rav4 there is a stowage bag. And all the opponent’s configurations have a full-size wheel. True, it is not located in the trunk, but under the bottom, which creates a number of inconveniences when replacing. But as soon as you lower the second row of seats, the trunk volume becomes larger in the Mitsubishi - 1640 liters. versus 1605 hp at Toyota.

Mitsubishi Outlander

Toyota Rav4

And if we compare the Outlander model with a 2-liter engine, the situation for the Rav 4 becomes even worse, since it loses in all criteria. The volume of Outlander 2.0 is 591/1754 l. In this indicator, it is generally difficult to compete with Mitsubishi. It has one of the most spacious trunks in the class.

At this stage it is difficult to determine the winner. If we compare the maximum configurations, then due to the advantage in the luggage compartment, heated rear row and more comfortable seats, the Rav 4 is in the lead. Although the design and ergonomics of its dashboard are not unambiguous.

Modifications

Toyota has a clear advantage in the choice of equipment. It is represented by three types of engines:

Petrol 2.0 l. power 146 hp;
Petrol 2.5 l. power 180 hp;
Turbodiesel 2.2 l. 150 hp

Although the 2021 model range is limited to petrol versions only. Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive modifications with a 2-liter engine are represented by two types of transmission: 6-speed manual and CVT. Version with 2.5 l. Available exclusively with automatic transmission.

With the Mitsubishi Outlander, everything is a little more modest. Transmission is limited to a CVT on all engine types. Motors are available in 2 types:

2.0 l. power 146 hp;
2.4 l. with 167 “horses”.

The advantage of manual transmission does not need to be explained. The mechanics allow you to rock the car when driving out of deep bogs and mud. Automatic and CVT are more sensitive and do not tolerate slipping. To preserve the box, both crossovers have a traction control system. In addition, the automatic transmission in Toyota has a “Sport” mode, which turns off the electronics, and in Mitsubishi the CVT has an “L” mode. After turning it on, the box increases the gear ratio more slowly, and it seems as if you are driving in first gear. In this way, you can slowly but surely overcome obstacles while maintaining the transmission.

Common features

Both the Highlander and the Land Cruiser are assembled in Japan and have initially established themselves in the market as high-quality cars. Both models are similar in characteristics:

identical body type;
availability of manual and automatic transmissions in the range;
four-wheel drive;
chassis quality;
same wheelbase;
solid appearance;
decent reviews from owners;
one price category;
5 doors.

And nowhere without a comfortable, stylish interior and ease of operation!

Technical equipment

In terms of options, the cars are approximately the same. Moreover, both old and new versions. Before restyling, the 2012 Rav 4 did not have many functions. For example, the all-round visibility system, which is a Nissan feature, was unavailable. But the 2021 model has acquired this option. This system allows the driver to see everything that is happening around the car in 360 degrees. Cameras located around the perimeter monitor the situation, and the computer glues the fragments together and displays a complete picture on the monitor screen.

In Outlander, most of the options appeared only a year ago. Even the restyled version of 2014 did not have many electronic systems. Today, both crossovers have sensors that indicate when the vehicle is in blind spots, an all-round visibility system, and a system that alerts you to an object crossing your path when reversing. The cars also have an automatic braking system if there is an obstacle at close range, but this option is only available in more expensive versions.

Standard options include a clutch lock, stability control system and parking sensors. In the maximum configuration, crossovers also have the function of automatically switching the light from low to high beam.

Conclusions: which is better?

Both models have their own advantages and disadvantages. Experienced car enthusiasts advise those who are thinking about whether to choose a Prado or a Highlander to take into account their own driving style and needs. If you are a fan of off-road driving, then your option is a Highlander. This same model is suitable for families who like to conquer new cities and countries by car. Consider your financial situation. Not only is the price of a Land Cruiser lower, but in the future servicing the car will be cheaper, at least because this model is more fuel efficient than a Highlander.

Controllability

The first thing you notice when driving the Outlander is the rubber steering wheel. The recoil is weak, the return is uncorrected, and in the straight position the steering wheel wobbles incomprehensibly. There is no rigidity at all, the car constantly has to be balanced, and this is annoying. With slight jerks of the steering wheel to the sides, the car begins to sway rather than wobble like the Rav4. This indicates insufficient steering wheel response. Mitsubishi has always been distinguished by mischief, so this driving style may appeal to drivers who need constant adrenaline, and they will enjoy controlling a car that is not very stable and precise.

A clear advantage of the Outlander is the softness of the suspension. The engineers did a great job to make the driver and passengers feel as comfortable as possible. Gently swaying, the car overcomes both minor and serious irregularities.

The opponent has a stiffer steering wheel, which reacts well to the slightest movements and has excellent feedback. It is clearly fixed, but to a certain extent it may seem too rigid. The steering wheel has no blind spots and, unlike its competitor, it will not present the driver with unexpected surprises. The obvious drawback of the Rav 4 is the suspension. Compared to the pre-restyling version of 2012, it has become softer, although small bumps and ripples on the road are still very noticeable. Large holes and potholes are overcome flawlessly, but small things clearly hit the passengers. In Outlander, everything feels softer: the suspension, pedals, and steering wheel. But such softness does not allow you to relax, but constantly keeps you on your toes, reminding you of the playful nature of the car with a claim to a sporty driving style.

The stability control system in both crossovers works flawlessly. If necessary, it reduces engine speed and corrects the trajectory of the wheels, preventing skidding and warning the driver against rash actions. However, by disabling this option, both cars turn into wild cats. It is noteworthy that disabling the stabilization function of the Outlander is easier. It is important to remember that before frolicking on the ice, you should switch the Mitsubishi variator to the “Ds” position, and the Toyota automatic transmission to the “Sport” mode.

When all available options are connected, including clutch lock, stability control and traction control, both cars show approximately the same off-road capabilities. The hill descent system, with the help of which the car independently brakes, works on the Rav4 both in forward and in reverse. In this case, a point for passability can be given to both participants.

Prices

Comparing price tags, Mitsubishi wins, and this is quite expected. Toyota has always been distinguished by its higher price in its class for its build quality and reputation earned over the years. Basic equipment Rav 4 with a 2.0 liter engine. A 6-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive costs 1,493,000 rubles. The initial version of Mitsubishi with the same front-wheel drive, CVT and 2.0 liter engine. costs about the same - 1,499,000 rubles. This is the cost of the 2017 model range. At the moment, you can purchase the 2021 version from an official dealer for 1,399,000 rubles. But in maximum all-wheel drive configurations with 2.4 and 2.5 liter engines. there is a noticeable difference - the 2021 models cost RUB 2,109,990. for Outlander and RUB 2,209,000. at Rav 4.

Summing up

In the Rav4 vs Outlander battle, it is difficult to determine a clear winner. “Rafik” is tougher and more stable in handling, while its rival is soft and cocky. The first car will definitely suit respectable drivers who value comfort, optionality and want to emphasize their status. Absolutely everything hints at prestige in Toyota. Outlander, in turn, attracts younger, hot-blooded clients. They will like the wayward character of Mitsubishi.

The cross-country ability and practicality of the cars are also at a similar level. It is worth noting that Toyota has greater comfort for passengers and Mitsubishi has a softer suspension. In terms of trunk space, there is no clear favorite, since the leader is determined by the choice of configuration. Other points, such as design, choice of finishing materials and gearbox type, are a matter of taste. The Rav 4 has more engine and transmission options, and, it would seem, when viewed objectively, Toyota has more advantages. But the cornerstone when choosing a car will always be the price tag. And since in Toyota it is as much as 100 thousand higher, it will no longer be possible to give preference to Rafik.

Each crossover has its own character and style that will appeal to different types of buyers. The main thing is to determine which one you like best! Good luck on the roads!

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

Toyota introduced the Land Cruiser Prado SUVs back in 1987. The car gained the favor of fans due to its high cross-country ability, which maintained driving comfort. The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 120 has won love among car owners. The appearance of the cars differs little from the second generation. This is a representative, elegant car.

Despite its status as a prestigious SUV, the car has smooth lines, large triangular headlights and hardly claims to be a “gangster” all-terrain vehicle. The excitement for the 120th model was caused after the release of the Prado 90, which did not live up to the expectations of car enthusiasts. The European company ED2 worked on the design of the “insides” of the car, so the 120-series goes beyond the Japanese traditional style.

The build quality deserves praise. The Japanese tried their best and showed a decent level, so you won’t hear annoying sounds while moving.

The overall comfort of the Land Cruiser Prado can be safely given a solid “ten”.

Two body styles are available: three- and five-door. In Russia, only the second option has taken root.

The external characteristics of the car are beyond any competition, all that remains is to figure out what is hiding under the hood of the stylish Cruiser. We have four types of gasoline engines, diesel and turbodiesel. The most popular is the 2.7 liter four-cylinder petrol engine. All-wheel drive, independent front and semi-independent rear suspension, five-speed manual transmission or four/five-speed automatic - this is a classic version of the Land Cruiser.

Manufacturers position the SUV as an all-terrain vehicle. And here questions arise: after all, a low landing, an enlarged wheelbase, and long overhangs force owners to make a choice in favor of traveling on the highway. As a result, we have an elegant, obedient and comfortable car with high-quality assembly, a powerful engine and good spaciousness. The car can easily be classified as a universal one; only regular off-road trips will make you a frequent visitor to the service station. You can buy a Land Cruiser at a price ranging from 1 to 1.6 million rubles.