Chevrolet
Captiva
Owner report available
Mitsubishi
Outlander
Owner report available
Chevrolet Captiva vs Mitsubishi Outlander
The short answer
Based on available data, the Mitsubishi Outlander comes out ahead of the Chevrolet Captiva on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Captiva
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation and market. For the first-generation models (approximately 2007-2016, including the Saturn Vue-based Captiva Sport), the consensus is overwhelmingly negative. These vehicles are widely criticized for poor long-term reliability, with very frequent reports of major powertrain failures (engines, transmissions), chronic oil consumption, and pervasive electrical issues.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to designate a "best" version. For the new generation, one owner specifically recommended the top "Premier" trim for maximizing features.
Known issues
- **First Generation (~2007-2016):** * Major engine failure (complete replacement required): very frequent. * Transmission failure (6-speed automatic 6T40/6T45): very frequent.
- **New Generation (2024+):** * Transmission concerns (CVT behavior: initial jerkiness, reported failures, doubts about long-term durability with turbo engine): recurrent.
Outlander
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. The vehicle is consistently praised for its strong value proposition, driven by aggressive pricing, significant dealer discounts, a compelling 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and attractive financing offers (including 0% APR). It is positioned as a practical, budget-friendly family SUV with available three-row seating and all-wheel drive.
Best version to buy
For 2014-2020 models, the V6-equipped GT trim with the 6-speed automatic transmission is highly recommended by knowledgeable owners for its superior power and perceived bulletproof reliability compared to the 4-cylinder CVT combination. For the current generation (2021+), the Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) variant is frequently highlighted as the most satisfying version due to its strong acceleration, excellent electric-only range (reported up to 43 miles/69 km), and impressive real-world fuel economy (reported 55-85 MPG in mixed use).
Known issues
- CVT transmission reliability concerns: widespread anxiety about long-term durability, particularly in non-hybrid 4-cylinder models, though specific failure reports are less frequent than the concern.
- Underpowered 4-cylinder engine: described as sluggish, barely adequate, and struggling with merging/passing, especially in pre-2021 models. Frequency: very frequent.
- Interior material quality and dated design: use of hard plastics, lack of refinement, and an overall feeling of being outdated compared to segment rivals, particularly in pre-2021 models. Frequency: very frequent.
The verdict
The Mitsubishi Outlander is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Chevrolet Captiva, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Chevrolet Captiva is worth a closer look instead.
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Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Chevrolet Captiva or the Mitsubishi Outlander?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Chevrolet Captiva and the Mitsubishi Outlander. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Chevrolet Captiva or the Mitsubishi Outlander?
The Chevrolet Captiva seats more passengers than the Mitsubishi Outlander on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Chevrolet Captiva is classed as a SUV, the Mitsubishi Outlander as a SUV.
Which has better fuel economy, the Chevrolet Captiva or the Mitsubishi Outlander?
The EPA rates the 2015 Chevrolet Captiva at 23 mpg combined and the 2027 Mitsubishi Outlander at 25–27 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Chevrolet Captiva or the Mitsubishi Outlander?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Chevrolet Captiva than the Mitsubishi Outlander. See the known issues comparison above.