Mitsubishi Outlander Sports vs Nissan Rogue 11/22/2010
Families are increasingly opting for the versatility of crossovers over full-size SUVs or minivans, but with such a crowded market, which vehicles are the best buys?
Two models out of Japan offer families the roominess of a crossover for around $20,000. The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has been around since the early part of this decade, while the Nissan Rogue is a relatively new contender that was introduced in 2008.
Right off the bat, the Outlander represents good value for drivers' money. Starting at $19,495 compared to the Rogue's $20,810 price tag, the Outlander will be about $1,300 off the lot. It saves even more money by offering an extensive warranty that outstrips Nissan. Mitsubishi drivers get a 5 year basic warranty, 10 year powertrain and 5 years of roadside assistance. Nissan only offers a 5 year powertrain warranty, and 3 years of basic and roadside assistance, although it will cover the transmission for 12 years. The Outlander also gets better gas mileage than the Rogue by 3 mpg on both city and highway.
Yet don't count the Rogue out. The vehicle is significantly roomier, with more cargo space. It also offers a lot more pep out of a four-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower/175 lb-ft of torque compared to 148/145 on the Mitsubishi.
In the end, it's not enough to make it a better buy than the Outlander. The Rogue is a solid vehicle, but the Outlander's fuel economy and warranty push it over the top.