2022 Mitsubishi Outlander vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid presented a blend of sharp edges and a streamlined profile, fitting snugly between the Lexus UX and RX models. Its design, while not traditionally SUV-like, maintained a familiar Lexus aesthetic. Despite its luxury branding, the NX shared its platform with the older Toyota RAV4, making it feel somewhat dated in engineering. The F Sport Black Line edition added a sporty flair with a larger mesh grille, dark-finish 18-inch wheels, and a striking Grecian Water blue paint, contrasting nicely with the darker trim elements. Inside, the NX's design, once radical, had become familiar, with a stepped center console and a lack of traditional luxury materials like wood trim. The Black Line treatment added sporty touches, but the material quality leaned more towards mainstream than luxury.

In contrast, the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander showcased a bold front styling with its “Dynamic Shield” grille, offering a balanced and appealing design from front to rear. Available in multiple trims, the Outlander featured handsome 20-inch wheels and a price range from $25,795 to $35,345. The SEL trim with AWD and the Touring package added luxury touches like premium leather, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior embraced minimalism with black and aluminum accents, though some plastics reminded of its compact crossover status. Despite this, Mitsubishi avoided obviously cheap materials, creating a more upscale feel.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing 194 horsepower. It came standard with AWD, but its performance was more about efficiency than excitement, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds. The sport-tuned suspension in the Black Line package improved handling, but the steering felt numb, and the drivetrain struggled with power transitions. Drive modes offered little difference, with Eco mode further dulling acceleration.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 181 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. Its CVT and optional Super All-Wheel Control system provided decent urban responsiveness but lacked power for confident highway maneuvers. The ride was firm, with the suspension transmitting road imperfections into the cabin. Steering felt vague, and the Outlander’s performance was underwhelming, especially at higher speeds. It returned 24.9 mpg, slightly below its EPA rating.

The Lexus NX Hybrid offered limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats. Front seats were comfortable with 10-way power adjustment, but rear visibility was compromised by thick pillars. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. Features like a power liftgate were optional.

The Mitsubishi Outlander excelled in interior space, with roomy and comfortable front seats and generous rear seat room. The rear seat could slide to adjust space, and a third-row seat was available, though cramped for adults. Cargo capacity was 11.7 cubic feet with the third row up, expanding to 79.7 cubic feet with seats folded. The interior design was clean, but storage space was less than competitors due to underutilized console space.

The Lexus NX Hybrid’s infotainment system was a weak point, with an 8-inch display and a difficult-to-use Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While it supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the system felt dated, with poor graphics and a tinny base audio system. Higher trims offered a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system.

The Mitsubishi Outlander impressed with a 12.3-inch digital display, a detailed HUD, and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay. It included a two-year subscription to Mitsubishi Connect services and a 10-speaker Bose audio system. However, voice recognition struggled with road noise.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a “Top Safety Pick+” from IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating. It came with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver aids, though lacking a 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander featured Mi-Pilot Assist, similar to Nissan’s ProPilot Assist, providing smooth Level 2 driver assistance. It included standard safety tech like forward collision avoidance and blind-spot warning. Crash-test results were unavailable at the time of review.