Comparative Automotive Research has identified no less than 55 advantages that the Mitsubishi Outlander 2WD has over the Hyundai Tucson FWD.
| MSRP Range | |
| Mitsubishi Outlander 2WD | |
| Hyundai Tucson FWD | |
Engine
The Outlander 2WD (ES, SE) has a larger standard engine, a 2.4L I4, than the standard engine in the Tucson FWD (GL AT FWD, GL MT FWD), which has a 2.0L I4.
The standard engine in the Outlander 2WD 2.4L I4 is more powerful, with more horsepower than the standard engine in the Tucson FWD 2.0L I4, 168 HP vs. 165 HP.
The Outlander 2WD's engines reach maximum power at lower RPM's than the Tucson FWD's engines, as detailed below by trim and engine:
| RPM's to Peak Torque | RPM's to Peak HP | |||||
| Outlander 2WD ES 2.4L I4 | 4100 | 6000 | ||||
| Outlander 2WD SE 2.4L I4 | 4100 | 6000 | ||||
| Tucson FWD GL MT FWD 2.0L I4 | 4600 | 6200 | ||||
| Tucson FWD GL AT FWD 2.0L I4 | 4600 | 6200 | ||||
The standard engines in the Outlander 2WD have more torque (low-end power) than those in the Tucson FWD, as detailed by trim and engine below:
| Torque | ||||
| Outlander 2WD ES 2.4L I4 | 167 lb-ft | |||
| Outlander 2WD SE 2.4L I4 | 167 lb-ft | |||
| Tucson FWD GL AT FWD 2.0L I4 | 146 lb-ft | |||
| Tucson FWD GL MT FWD 2.0L I4 | 146 lb-ft | |||
| Tucson FWD GLS AT FWD PZEV 2.4L I4 | 163 lb-ft | |||
| Tucson FWD Limited AT FWD PZEV 2.4L I4 | 163 lb-ft | |||
Power-to-weight ratio illustrates the relationship between curb weight and horsepower (Curb Weight / Horsepower). As a rule, the lower the ratio, the faster the vehicle. The Outlander 2WD, has a lower power-to-weight ratio than the Tucson FWD, as detailed below by trim level and engine:
| Power To Weight Ratio | ||||
| Outlander 2WD | 15.8 | |||
| Tucson FWD GL AT FWD 2.0L I4 | 19.4 | |||
| Tucson FWD GL MT FWD 2.0L I4 | 19.3 | |||
| Tucson FWD GLS AT FWD 2.4L I4 | 18.6 | |||
| Tucson FWD GLS AT FWD PZEV 2.4L I4 | 19.2 | |||
| Tucson FWD Limited AT FWD 2.4L I4 | 18.6 | |||
| Tucson FWD Limited AT FWD PZEV 2.4L I4 | 19.2 | |||
Reliability
The Outlander 2WD has a larger engine displacement than the Tucson FWD. Engines with larger displacements can produce more power, with less stress, reducing wear and prolonging engine life. Details by engine below:
| Displacement CC | ||||
| Outlander 2WD 2.4L I4 | 2360 cc | |||
| Tucson FWD 2.0L I4 | 1998 cc | |||
| Tucson FWD 2.4L I4 | 2359 cc | |||
Transmission
The Standard adaptive automatic transmission in the Outlander 2WD is a computer-controlled system that automatically adapts response and performance according to driving styles and road conditions. For example, the system selects optimal shift points and determines the proper gear necessary to climb steep grades or drive downhill. This type of transmission is Not Available in the Tucson FWD GL MT FWD.
The Outlander 2WD has a Standard manually interactive automatic transmission. This type of automatic transmission gives the driver complete gear control, like a manually-shifted transmission, but without the inconvenient clutch. The type of transmission is Not Available in the Tucson FWD GL MT FWD.
EconomyFuel Economy and Emissions
The Outlander 2WD has a larger fuel tank than the Tucson FWD, 16.6 gal. vs. 15.3 gal. This may give it a greater range before having to stop to refuel.
The Outlander 2WD is more fuel efficient than the Tucson FWD. Superior fuel efficiency makes the Outlander 2WD both more environmentally friendly and less expensive to operate than the Tucson FWD.
| Fuel Economy Hwy | Fuel Economy City | |||||
| Outlander 2WD ES 2.4L I4 | 28 mpg. | 23 mpg. | ||||
| Outlander 2WD SE 2.4L I4 | 28 mpg. | 23 mpg. | ||||
| Tucson FWD GL MT FWD 2.0L I4 | 27 mpg. | 20 mpg. | ||||
| Tucson FWD GLS AT FWD 2.4L I4 | - | 22 mpg. | ||||
| Tucson FWD GLS AT FWD PZEV 2.4L I4 | - | 22 mpg. | ||||
| Tucson FWD Limited AT FWD 2.4L I4 | - | 22 mpg. | ||||
| Tucson FWD Limited AT FWD PZEV 2.4L I4 | - | 22 mpg. | ||||
*Mileage statistics shown are for each vehicle with its standard transmission. Fuel economy is only compared for like engines (i.e. 4 cyl. to 4 cyl.)
The Outlander 2WD gets more miles from a tank of fuel than the Tucson FWD, as detailed below by trim and engine:
| Driving Distance | ||||
| Outlander 2WD | 415 mi. | |||
| Tucson FWD GL AT FWD 2.0L I4 | 377 mi. | |||
| Tucson FWD GL MT FWD 2.0L I4 | 333.5 mi. | |||
| Tucson FWD GLS AT FWD 2.4L I4 | 362.5 mi. | |||
| Tucson FWD GLS AT FWD PZEV 2.4L I4 | 362.5 mi. | |||
| Tucson FWD Limited AT FWD 2.4L I4 | 362.5 mi. | |||
| Tucson FWD Limited AT FWD PZEV 2.4L I4 | 362.5 mi. | |||
Cost to Own
The base MSRP on the Outlander 2WD is less than the base MSRP on the Tucson FWD as shown in the table below.
| Base Price MSRP | ||||
| Outlander 2WD ES | 22,345 | |||
| Outlander 2WD SE | 23,345 | |||
| Tucson FWD Limited AT FWD | 24,895 | |||
| Tucson FWD Limited AT FWD PZEV | 24,895 | |||
Airbags
Both the Outlander 2WD and the Tucson FWD feature Standard driver and passenger air bags.
General Safety
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, heavier vehicles are safer in collisions and less affected by crosswinds than lighter vehicles. The Outlander 2WD is heavier than the Tucson FWD, shown below by trim level and transmission type:
| Curb Weight AT | ||||
| Outlander 2WD ES | 3,384 lbs. | |||
| Outlander 2WD SE | 3,516 lbs. | |||
| Outlander 2WD GT | 3,626 lbs. | |||
| Tucson FWD GL AT FWD | 3,175 lbs. | |||
| Tucson FWD GLS AT FWD | 3,197 lbs. | |||
| Tucson FWD GLS AT FWD PZEV | 3,197 lbs. | |||
| Tucson FWD Limited AT FWD | 3,318 lbs. | |||
| Tucson FWD Limited AT FWD PZEV | 3,318 lbs. | |||
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, longer vehicles can protect you better in both single and multiple-vehicle crashes because they have longer crumple zones, which can reduce damage to the internal safety cage and spread the crash forces. The Outlander 2WD is longer than the Tucson FWD, 183.7 in. vs. 173.2 in.
The Outlander 2WD is equipped with Standard FWD.
Fog lights are very effective at improving visibility in foggy and other difficult driving situations. You are more likely to find fog lights on the Outlander 2WD than on the Tucson FWD, as detailed below:
| Fog Lamps | ||||
| Outlander 2WD ES | Optional | |||
| Outlander 2WD GT | Standard | |||
| Outlander 2WD SE | Standard | |||
| Tucson FWD | Not Available | |||
High intensity discharge (HID) headlights are Standard on the Outlander 2WD GT but Not Available Tucson FWD. HID headlights offer several advantages - increased visibility due to significantly brighter light, longer lasting/more durable bulbs and much lower energy use.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, multiple-vehicle daytime crashes account for about half of all police-reported crashes in the United States. Numerous studies have shown that daytime running lights - low intensity lights that make vehicles more visible during daylight hours - reduce daytime accidents as much as 11%. Daytime running lights are a Standard feature on the Outlander 2WD but Not Available on the Tucson FWD.
The Outlander 2WD GT has Standard rain-sensing windshield wipers that are activated by rain or moisture on the windshield. This type of wiper is Not Available on the Tucson FWD.
CapacitiesInterior Space
The Outlander 2WD (GT, SE) has a greater standard seating capacity, with room for 7 passengers. The Tucson FWD can only accommodate 5 passengers.
The Outlander 2WD has more interior space than the Tucson FWD in the following areas:
| Leg Room, Front | Leg Room, Rear | Shoulder Room, Rear | Head Room, Front | |||||||
| Outlander 2WD ES | 41.6 in. | 39.6 in. | 56.1 in. | 40.3 in. | ||||||
| Outlander 2WD SE | 41.6 in. | - | 56.1 in. | 40.3 in. | ||||||
| Outlander 2WD GT | 41.6 in. | - | 56.1 in. | 40.3 in. | ||||||
| Tucson FWD | 41.2 in. | 38.7 in. | 55.1 in. | 39.4 in. | ||||||
Cargo Space
The Outlander 2WD ES has 36.2 cu. ft. of cargo volume compared to 25.7 cu. ft. in the Tucson FWD. The additional cargo space means more room to store and transport packages, luggage, etc.
The Standard second row split seat allows Outlander 2WD owners the flexibility for both storage and passenger seating. A second row split seat is Not Available in the Tucson FWD.
The Outlander 2WD (GT, SE) features a Standard third row folding seat for increased cargo space. A third row folding seat is Not Available in the Tucson FWD.
Owners of the Outlander 2WD (GT, SE) have the ability to increase the vehicle's interior cargo space by way of a Standard removable (or fold-flat) third row seat. This feature is Not Available with the Tucson FWD.
Payload and Towing
The Outlander 2WD has a higher towing capacity than the Tucson FWD, meaning it can pull a larger total weight - trailer and contents.
| Tow Capacity, Std | ||||
| Outlander 2WD ES | 1,500 lbs. | |||
| Outlander 2WD SE | 1,500 lbs. | |||
| Outlander 2WD GT | 2,000 lbs. | |||
| Tucson FWD | 1,000 lbs. | |||
The Outlander 2WD has a higher payload capacity than the Tucson FWD, meaning it can handle a greater total weight of passengers and cargo.
| Payload Capacity, Max | Payload Capacity, Std | |||||
| Outlander 2WD ES | 1180 lbs. | 1180 lbs. | ||||
| Outlander 2WD SE | 1423 lbs. | 1423 lbs. | ||||
| Outlander 2WD GT | 1445 lbs. | 1445 lbs. | ||||
| Tucson FWD GL MT FWD | 1226 lbs. | 1226 lbs. | ||||
| Tucson FWD GL AT FWD | 1190 lbs. | 1190 lbs. | ||||
| Tucson FWD GLS AT FWD | 1300 lbs. | 1300 lbs. | ||||
| Tucson FWD GLS AT FWD PZEV | 1300 lbs. | 1300 lbs. | ||||
| Tucson FWD Limited AT FWD | 1179 lbs. | 1179 lbs. | ||||
| Tucson FWD Limited AT FWD PZEV | 1179 lbs. | 1179 lbs. | ||||
Chassis
The Outlander 2WD, with its higher minimum ground clearance, 8.5 in. vs. 6.7 in., is more capable than the Tucson FWD of traversing rough terrain without problems.
The Outlander 2WD's wheelbase is longer than the Tucson FWD's, 105.1 in. vs. 103.9 in., producing a smoother ride and more stable handling.
The Outlander 2WD is narrower than the Tucson FWD, 70.9 in. vs. 71.7 in., so it will be easier to maneuver and park, especially in tight parking spaces.
Wheels and Tires
The Outlander 2WD (GT, SE) comes standard with lower profile, 55 series tires (height to width ratio), which may provide better handling than the 60 series tires standard on the Tucson FWD (GL AT FWD, GL MT FWD, GLS AT FWD, GLS AT FWD PZEV).
AdvantagesAdditional Features
With a Optional multi-adjustable power driver seat, the Outlander 2WD GT lets drivers customize their seating position for maximum comfort and performance. This type of seat is Not Available in the Tucson FWD (GL AT FWD, GL MT FWD, GLS AT FWD, GLS AT FWD PZEV).
A heated front seat is Optional in the Outlander 2WD GT, providing additional comfort in very cold weather. This feature is Not Available in the Tucson FWD (GL AT FWD, GL MT FWD, GLS AT FWD, GLS AT FWD PZEV).
Leather seating is a much sought after feature for new car buyers, offering exceptional luxury and style, superior comfort, ease of maintenance and improved resale value. Leather seating is Optional in the Outlander 2WD GT but is Not Available in the Tucson FWD (GL AT FWD, GL MT FWD, GLS AT FWD, GLS AT FWD PZEV).
The Outlander 2WD features a Optional navigational aid system, providing maps, driving directions and location assistance. A navigation system is Not Available in the Tucson FWD (GL AT FWD, GL MT FWD, GLS AT FWD, GLS AT FWD PZEV).
Illuminated vanity mirrors are Standard in the Outlander 2WD but Not Available in the Tucson FWD (GL AT FWD, GL MT FWD).
The Outlander 2WD GT has a Standard automatic climate control system. The system controls the temperature, fan speed, and vents to maintain a consistent environment within the passenger compartment. Automatic climate control is Not Available in the Tucson FWD (GL AT FWD, GL MT FWD, GLS AT FWD, GLS AT FWD PZEV).
On long road trips in the Outlander 2WD, drivers can engage the Standard cruise control, reducing fatigue. Cruise control is Not Available in the Tucson FWD (GL AT FWD, GL MT FWD).
With a Optional power sunroof, a touch of a button is all Outlander 2WD (GT, SE) owners need to let the sun or the stars shine in. In contrast, bringing in the great outdoors will be more difficult in the Tucson FWD (GL AT FWD, GL MT FWD, GLS AT FWD, GLS AT FWD PZEV) as a power sunroof is Not Available.
The Outlander 2WD features Standard automatic headlights that control their on/off capability. Automatic headlights are Not Available on the Tucson FWD (GL AT FWD, GL MT FWD, GLS AT FWD, GLS AT FWD PZEV).