Mitsubishi, Nissan and Subaru are all vying for customer preference in the compact crossover segment with their shiny new 2010 4×4 CUV models. The three rival models are the Mitsubishi Outlander, the Nissan Rogue and the Subaru Forester. Here, we’ll take a look the Outlander’s basic specs and how it measures up against the other two.

The 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander offers interior and exterior restyling, more modern technology than the prior model and lots of comfort. Engine options include a 161- or 168-horsepower 2.4-litre inline-4 or a 230-horsepower 3.0-litre V-6. Customers can also choose between a six-speed CVT transmission and a six-speed automatic transmission with auto-manual shift. The Outlander’s fuel economy ratings as reported by the EPA are quite good, with a low of 18-21 mpg in the city and 24-27 mpg on the highway. Thanks to its antilock disc brakes, full-length side curtain airbags and other safety features it was awarded a five-star safety rating for front- and side-impact protection. The basic ES edition comes with 16-inch wheels and a generous repertoire of standard features, while the SE has 18-inch wheels plus remote keyless ignition and entry and satellite radio, among other conveniences. The premium XLS edition comes with a third-row seat, voice-activated Bluetooth connectivity and other prime features.

Compared to the Rogue, the Outlander will definitely be more convenient for those with small kids, and it also has a greater towing capacity. But when it comes to gas tank size, the Rogue’s tank is somewhat larger, which means that it will need somewhat less frequent fill-ups. Both cars are roughly the same size and the destination charge for both is nearly the same. (Destination charge refers to the charge for transporting the car from its origin to the dealership.) The Rogue might save you marginally more on gas than the Outlander, but again, there’s very little difference between the two when it comes to fuel economy, and the Rogue’s MSRP (manufacturer’s suggested retail price) is only slightly below the Outlander’s. The Rogue’s engine is a bit larger and provides greater torque, hence quicker acceleration, but the difference between the two cars is minimal in this respect. However, the Outlander’s interior is significantly larger and makes for much more passenger room than the Rogue. The Rogue’s warranty also falls short of its competitor’s.

Looking at the Forester in comparison with the Outlander, the latter will definitely be preferred by parents with small kids in tow. However, the Forester outperforms the Outlander in terms of towing capacity. You won’t have to fill up the Outlander’s tank any more frequently than the Forester’s, even though the Forester has a somewhat larger tank. The overall size of the two cars, as well as their gas mileage and fuel economy, is so similar that there exists almost no difference between them. Engine size, torque and handling are also extremely similar in the Outlander and Forester. The Forester gives taller drivers more headroom than its rival and backseat passengers a smidgen extra head- and leg-room but its basic warranty is a little less generous than the Outlander’s.