Mazda
CX-9
Mitsubishi
Outlander
Mazda CX-9 vs Mitsubishi Outlander: 2024 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Mitsubishi Outlander comes out ahead of the Mazda CX-9 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
CX-9
Overall
Predominantly positive sentiment, with the vehicle widely praised for its exceptional driving dynamics, premium interior feel, and strong value proposition. Long-term owner reports consistently highlight its car-like, sporty handling, comfortable and quiet cabin, and upscale styling as key strengths. The consensus indicates high satisfaction among owners who prioritize driving enjoyment and a premium experience in a three-row family SUV.
Best version to buy
Higher trims such as Grand Touring and Signature are frequently mentioned for maximizing luxury features, premium materials, and technology content. The Signature trim, in particular, is associated with a highly upscale interior experience.
Known issues
- ⚠Cylinder head cracking / coolant leak in 2.5T engine: A design/manufacturing defect leading to coolant leaking into the engine, potentially causing catastrophic failure.
- ⚠High oil consumption in some later models: Mentioned alongside the cylinder head issue as a potential problem for some vehicles. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Wide turning radius: Noted as requiring adjustment due to the vehicle's length. Frequency: isolated.
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 Mazda CX-9, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Mazda CX-9 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Mazda CX-9 or the Mitsubishi Outlander?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Mazda CX-9 and the Mitsubishi Outlander. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Mazda CX-9 or the Mitsubishi Outlander?
The Mazda CX-9 seats more passengers than the Mitsubishi Outlander on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Mazda CX-9 is classed as a SUV, the Mitsubishi Outlander as a SUV.
Which has better fuel economy, the Mazda CX-9 or the Mitsubishi Outlander?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Mazda CX-9 or the Mitsubishi Outlander?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.