2016 Subaru XV Crosstrek vs. 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

In recent years, the crossover SUV segment has really taken off, with many major and minor auto players vying for a slice of the market. The 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek and the redesigned 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport are two models in close competition.

To keep your SUV search headed in the right direction, Bill Rapp Subaru has put together a comprehensive vehicle comparison of these capable SUVs. Read on to find out which model would make a better partner for navigating Syracuse, Oneida, and Liverpool.

XV Crosstrek vs. Outlander Sport: Parallel Power

Each running on a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 148 horsepower, the Subaru XV Crosstrek and the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport have mirror-image powertrains. Even their transmission options are fundamentally the same: a five-speed manual comes standard, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) choice is available.

With the CVT, the front-wheel drive Mitsubishi Outlander returns an EPA-estimated 24 city and 30 highway mpg, which is respectable for the class.

Despite similar equipment on board, the XV Crosstrek can achieve an average efficiency that's higher still at 26 city and 34 highway mpg. Now remember that the Subaru XV Crosstrek is an all-wheel drive standard vehicle and these marks become even more impressive.

Interior Features of the Crosstrek and Outlander

At their cores, the XV Crosstrek and the Outlander Sport offer supportive and roomy seating. The Subaru is tastefully finished and employs premium materials in its cabin. Comparatively, the Mitsubishi doesn't wear much of a design scheme, but it's functional nonetheless.

Bluetooth and USB connection can be found on either base model. The 2015 XV Crosstrek also comes standard with the brand's new 6.2-inch STARLINK touchscreen infotainment system. STARLINK integrates with your smartphone for easy access to apps and introduces tons of other handy functions as well, from vehicle performance updates to geolocation services that can be used if your vehicle is lost or stolen.

Crossovers with Confidence

In government crash test ratings, both the 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek and the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander were deemed Top Safety Picks by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. But only the XV Crosstrek brought back a 5-Star Overall Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration since the Outlander Sport had less-than-perfect scores when it came to frontal crash and rollover results.

Subaru's commitment to safety takes the XV Crosstrek just a little further to make everyday driving safe driving. One example of this is the XV Crosstrek's standard rearview camera (not offered standard on the Outlander Sport) that makes it easy to keep watch on your surroundings for secure backups.

Another is Subaru's newly available EyeSight driver assistance technology. This system compounds the individual abilities of programs such as Lane Keeping Assist and Pre-Collision Prevention into one comprehensive safety suite that equips Subaru models with a superior safety defense.

Subaru Crosstrek or Mitsubishi Outlander?

Which of these crossovers helps you better cross out the items on your wish list? With standard all-wheel drive, an upscale interior, and advanced technology on board, the 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek is a strong pick for small SUV seekers.

Want to get to know how the XV Crosstrek really feels? Get behind the wheel for a test drive at your local Bill Rapp Subaru dealership! Syracuse, Oneida, and Liverpool area shoppers can call us or stop by 3451 Burnet Avenue in Syracuse today.