2022 Mazda CX-5 vs. 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Comparison

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 receives a styling refresh, while the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander is all-new. Let’s see how these two compact SUVs size up.

 2022 Mazda CX-5

2022 Mazda CX-5 Starting Price: $27,000 (est.) |  Price yours or View listings near you

Above Average: Refreshed exterior; spirited handling; standard all-wheel drive; comfortable seating.

Below Average: Smaller back seat and cargo area than some compact SUV rivals; no hybrid version.

Consensus: Mazda’s CX-5 begins its climb up the luxury ladder, adding a little to its MSRP along the way. The 2022 CX-5 boasts a premium appearance and now comes with AWD as standard.

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Starting Price: $25,795  |  Price yours now or View listings near you

Above Average: Totally new for 2022; seats up to seven on three rows; contemporary cabin with great connectivity including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; available plug-in hybrid.

Below Average: Only one engine offered; CVT transmission; PHEV model based on the previous generation; rear cross-traffic alert does not have automatic braking.

Consensus: Totally new for 2022, the Mitsubishi Outlander is a compact 3-row crossover SUV that shares a chassis and powertrain with the Nissan Rogue, its corporate cousin. As a result, it is now roomier than the model it replaces.

CX-5 vs. Outlander: Sporty Elegance or Practical Value

Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 sports a freshened look to go along with new content. The suspension has been reworked for better handling. In addition, Mazda has improved the overall ride quality, which is now enhanced with all-wheel drive as a standard feature. We dare say it’s like driving a Mazda Miata SUV.

Power for the 2022 Mazda CX-5 comes from a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter inline-4 that delivers 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. Turbo models receive the 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 that makes 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular gasoline. Using 93-octane fuel increases power to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque.

Both engines mate with 6-speed automatic transmissions that deliver power to all four wheels. Behind the scenes, G-Vectoring Control Plus modulates engine torque and brake force to each wheel for optimum stability.

The upholstery of the base CX-5 Sport is cloth, followed by simulated leather, real leather, and premium leather with real wood accents as you work your way up to the top trim. Turbo models start with the new 2.5 Turbo, which replaces the previous Grand Touring Reserve and tops out with the Turbo 2.5 Signature.

A standard safety suite includes forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, and more.

Mitsubishi Outlander

All-new for 2022, the Mitsubishi Outlander builds on the good bones of its corporate cousin, the new Nissan Rogue. It’s more than a half-inch longer than the older model and has a wheelbase that has been stretched 1.4 inches. That results in an extra inch of legroom, which makes a surprising difference in passenger comfort.

The Outlander offers three rows of seating for up to seven passengers, which is unusual in the compact SUV space. Keep in mind that the back row is tight and at best, child-friendly with 18.7 inches of legroom.

The 2.5-liter inline-4 engine provides 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. The powertrain normally drives the front wheels (FWD) through a continuously variable transmission (CVT). All-wheel drive is $1,800 extra.

An Outlander plug-in hybrid is offered, but it carries over the previous generation’s body as a 2022 model. Expect a completely new PHEV next year.

In addition to its new looks, the 2022 Outlander receives a significant amount of advanced driver-assist technology. Mi-Pilot Assist is standard on the SE trim and above and supplements active cruise control with stop and go, lane-keep assist, lane-centering, and traffic-sign recognition.

We think most buyers will be happy starting with the Outlander SE model and the features that come with it. These include 20-inch alloy wheels, Mitsubishi Connect, multiview camera system, front parking sensors, Mitsubishi Pilot Assist, navigation, and wireless smartphone charging. An available tech package adds a 12.3-inch digital gauge screen, Bose premium sound system, and power panoramic sunroof.

Similarities

Compact dimensions; 4-cylinder power; fuel economy.

2022 Mazda CX-5 Advantages

Standard all-wheel drive; turbo engine option; great handling; upscale interior; NHTSA 5-star safety rating.

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Advantages

Three-row seating; cargo capacity; long warranty.

Which One is Right for Me?

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offers handsome looks, a more powerful turbo engine option, and standard all-wheel drive. It’s an upscale yet affordable compact SUV.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander features more muscular and traditional SUV styling in a 3-row package that straddles the compact and midsize segments.

Ready to buy a Mazda CX5 or Mitsubishi Outlander? Shop now for one on sale near you