Comparison of Mitsubishi Outlander and Subaru Forester. Subaru Forester or Mitsubishi Outlander: comparison and which is better to take. Which is better

What will happen if simple rural guys are sent to a big city and placed in a company of intellectuals? That's right, after a while they will get used to and acquire gentlemanly manners - this happens not only among people, but also in the automotive world. If we consider the Subaru Forester of the first generations, you will notice that these machines are capable of overcoming very difficult rough terrain. However, after we saw the second generation Mitsubishi Outlander, originally produced with the "XL" prefix, it became clear that the compact SUV segment was gradually disappearing, and the cars themselves were becoming closer to midsize crossovers. Is it time to put on a suit and tie when getting into the Subaru Forester, or is the car still a convenient utilitarian transport - we will find out, along the way, comparing it with a purely passenger Mitsubishi Outlander.

Mitsubishi Outlander and Subaru Forester - which car retained more off-road qualities

Evaluation in dynamics

From a place - off-road

It will be most interesting to find out which of the cars will show the best result on rough terrain - Forester or Outlander, so we will start our review with a comparison in this area. As mentioned above, in the past generation Mitsubishi The Outlander has become a crossover designed exclusively for driving. However, Mitsubishi engineers slightly modified the new generation of the car, equipping it with other bumpers, increasing the ground clearance and removing from under the huge spare wheel, which previously caused a significant decrease in cross-country ability. Alas, the miracle did not happen - everything is spoiled by a very short-travel suspension, which makes the wheels hang out already on irregularities of medium dimensions. In addition, the Mitsubishi Outlander lacks even an imitation of inter-wheel differential locking, which makes the car slip helplessly, hitting a large gully on a dirt road or hitting a particularly large stone.

The work of the new variator from Mitsubishi was not at all pleased - the unit works quite well in moderate modes, but it overheats even before the multi-plate clutch, which supplies torque to the rear axle. Finally, it is worth not very flattering about the large fashionable bumpers Mitsubishi Outlsnder - although in fairness it should be said that it has the same exterior design elements. Suspension Outlander when driving on a level surface provides very much due to its softness and optimal settings. However, one has only to go to the Mitsubishi Outlander to conquer the vastness of domestic off-road and suburban roads, as the softness immediately turns into a strong buildup, forcing the driver to slow down and the passengers to frantically grab all protruding objects.

If you compare the Mitsubishi Outlander and Subaru Forester, at first glance, there are no big differences. In system all-wheel drive a similar multi-plate clutch of the friction type is used, although a bevel differential is available for the manual transmission version, which provides a constant supply of torque. However, its settings are the best - unlike Mitsubishi, Subaru Forester slips in the mud much less time before connecting to all-wheel drive, and also allows you to actively move over rough terrain without fear of overheating of the transmission. Even the Subaru CVT is given up much later - and even then it just warns the driver, and does not go into emergency mode with load limitation. In addition, a special electronic system imitates the blocking of inter-wheel differentials in the Subaru Forester, which in most cases makes it easier to overcome.

Specifications

Car model:	Mitsubishi outlander	Subaru forester
Manufacturer country:	Japan (Build - Russia, Kaluga)	Japan
Body type:	Crossover	Crossover
Number of places:	5	5
Number of doors:	5	5
Engine displacement, cubic meters cm:	2360	2457
Power, hp with. / about. min .:	166/6000	171/5800
Maximum speed, km / h:	195	196
Acceleration to 100 km / h, s:	10,5	9,9
Type of drive:	Full	Full
Checkpoint:	Variable speed drive	Variable speed drive
Fuel type:	Gasoline AI-92	Gasoline AI-95
Consumption per 100 km:	In the city 10.6 / Out of the city 6.9	In the city 10.9 / Out of the city 7.2
Length, mm:	4655	4595
Width, mm:	1800	1795
Height, mm:	1680	1735
Clearance, mm:	215	220
Tire size:	215/70 R16	225/60 R17
Curb weight, kg:	1495	1508
Full weight, kg:	2210	2245
Volume fuel tank:	63	60

However, other disadvantages are still the same - an extremely short-travel suspension and oversized bumpers, which limit the magnitude of the entry and exit angles. It is worth noting the fact that the Subaru Forester is not even most equipped with an engine sump protection, although it is in the asset of the base Mitsubishi Outlander. If we talk about the Forester's suspension, then in many modes it can seem harsh. But after driving on a bad road, you realize that Subaru engineers have not in vain picked up just such settings for the chassis - the car does not seem to notice the pits, reliably protecting its passengers from shaking due to its incredible energy intensity. In addition, the car does not lose control in such conditions - road irregularities are not transmitted to the steering wheel.

And if in the city?

If you make the proving ground large, the Mitsubishi crossover undeniably wins the Forester versus Outlander in terms of comfort. Its variator works more smoothly, allowing you to get under way almost imperceptibly without unnecessary jerking and pecking of the soft suspension. The very same chassis also does not make itself felt in any case, except for very already large irregularities - for example, tram tracks or "speed bumps" on which the Mitsubishi Outlander jumps up like a frightened horse, making passengers experience several unpleasant moments. it is used only in winter or in conditions that are completely unsuitable for normal traffic. By the way, when climbing such urban obstacles as high curbs, the Mitsubishi Outlander gives the driver the advantage of being able to transfer up to 100% of the torque to both the front and rear axles.

Test drive a car Subaru Forester:

Motor Mitsubishi volume 2.4 liters gives the vehicle good dynamics, although it does not make it a sports car. Active, in which you can change the fixed gear ratios of the variator using the steering wheel switches, it seems completely superfluous - the Outlander behaves quite confidently when using the automatic. The element of the car is smooth and unhurried city driving, in which there is no place for recklessness and demonstrative starts from a traffic light - for a large family crossover, which is Mitsubishi Outlander, this is a significant advantage.

If you compare the Mitsubishi Outlander and Subaru Forester, the second car shows itself from a completely different side. The car as if forces the driver to actively get under way, leaving behind even quite powerful cars. Of course, the incredible power flow that was characteristic of the turbocharged engines of the Subaru Forester of previous generations, combined with manual transmissions, is gone, but the car still belongs to the most dynamic urban crossovers. And here I already want to use "virtual" fixed transmissions, of which there are as many as 8 in the Forester. However, it is enough just to choose auto mode the transmission of the Subaru Forester and try not to press too hard on the gas pedal.

Test Drive Mitsubishi car Outlander:

Suspension Subaru in the city sometimes seems inappropriately stiff - it makes passengers feel not only large irregularities, but also such minor road defects as cracks in the asphalt and pavement joints. Looking at this, you involuntarily slow down in front of the tram tracks - and absolutely in vain! After all, the energy intensity of the Subaru Forester's suspension is fully disclosed at medium speed, which allows you to almost not touch the brake even on streets with very poor coverage. However, the Forester is still tiresome - if the road is not ideal, you will have to get used to constant shallow shaking.

How much will we take away?

Another important quality for a modern crossover is practicality, which is expressed in the capacity of the trunk and rear sofa. And here the comparison of Forester and Outlander will be most appropriate. Opening the rear door, at first you wonder - where in the Mitsubishi Outlander have gone such huge dimensions for an urban crossover? The useful volume of the luggage compartment in a Mitsubishi car is 480 liters, which is far from it. In addition, the wheel arches protrude towards the center as a kind of square "bollards", significantly impairing the ability to load large items. However, the Mitsubishi Outlander can please us when transforming the cabin - when the rear sofa is lowered to the floor, the compartment's capacity increases to almost 1.7 cubic meters with a flat floor.

Now let's move a little forward - it immediately becomes clear why the trunk of the Mitsubishi Outlander with the sofa fully open does not please us with its capacity. There is enough space for three passengers who will not feel cramped even if each of them is a professional weightlifter. The Outlander has a lot of space both between the two rows of seats and over the head of the riders. In addition, the rear seating position is close to perfect - not a single glaring ergonomic error can be found, although some may find the pillow a little short.

If you decide which is better - Forester or Outlander, then when you look through the fifth door it will seem more convenient and practical. The wheel arches in the trunk are not so large and have a rounded shape, allowing you to free up some space for loading equipment used on a long journey. However, with the transformation of the interior, the trunk of the Subaru Forester increases from 500 liters to 1.55 cubic meters, which is significantly less than that of the Mitsubishi Outlander. In addition, a step formed on the floor causes annoyance, which prevents large flat objects from being loaded inside.

Yes, and with the space in the back row, everything is not so good - passengers are freely accommodated in the Subaru Forester in width, but they feel a certain lack of space in length and height. But at their service there is a chic armrest, in the lower level of which there are large cup holders that allow you to place not only bottles with a capacity of 0.5 liters and cups of coffee, but also larger vessels, for example, from McDonald's. The Subaru Forester also has no problems with the comfort of the seat on the back sofa, although the tightness spoils the feel a little.

Design competition

Salon

Mitsubishi stylists have adopted the original solution, laying a chrome frame around the center console, dashboard and left deflector and filling the empty space inside it with lacquered plastic. However, in general, if you compare the Forester and Outlander, the latter will be inferior to its competitor, produced by Subaru. Mitsubishi Outlander uses only hard plastic, which responds with an unpleasant booming sound at the slightest impact on it. In addition, neither the large-spoke steering wheel, trimmed with the same cheap plastic, nor the space under the Outlander's center console, in which only the gearbox mode selector stands out, arouses any enthusiasm.

However, there are some advantages to simplicity - and pollution is not so clearly visible on a gray background. In addition, the Mitsubishi Outlander instruments are perfectly readable in many respects precisely because of their simplicity - when looking at them you do not waste a fraction of a second of precious time, which is so important when the traffic situation changes rapidly. The seats are optimally shaped, although some will again find the cushion short, while others will complain about the Outlander's too wide lateral support. An interesting enough feature of the Mitsubishi Outlander is the use of a deep container in the front armrest - you can put in it not only small things like a memory card for the multimedia system, but also a thermos and dry rations for the whole company going on a picnic.

The Subaru Forester's interior looks much better, albeit very controversial. The materials used are very good, but the appearance of the front panel evokes thoughts of the late 90s - only the large screen of the multimedia system and under the visor can distract from them, although they look alien here. What immediately attracts attention in the Subaru Forester is the beautiful instruments, in which each of the two dials is bordered by a chrome bezel. The steering wheel Forester with relatively thin spokes, decorated with a scattering of keys, also looks interesting.

Appearance

After the last restyling, the Mitsubishi Outlander began to look more overweight - thanks in large part to a very narrow radiator grille and a tiny brand logo. The situation is aggravated by the Outlander's strongly protruding bumper with a large slot in it. However, there is one original detail in the front end that visually lightens it, making the overall appearance of the Mitsubishi Outlander more harmonious and balanced - it is the large curved stampings that rise from the lower part of the bumper. On the side, Mitsubishi designers used a large stamped line running along the entire length of the sides - it gives the crossover a more dynamic look. The back also looks good - only the bright lights contrast too much with the body of the Mitsubishi Outlander when choosing a dark color.

If you compare Outlander versus Forester, Subaru's car is much more harmonious, despite some disproportionality caused by the higher headroom and increased ground clearance. The front of the Subaru Forester looks really aggressive due to the large bumper with undershooting, as well as two notches in the center, separated by a powerful plastic cross member. Even more aggressiveness of the Forester is given by the headlights tapering towards the center by a small "step". When viewed from the side, the Subaru Forester feels a bit ponderous due to the swollen wheel arches and the straight bottom line of the glass. But the rear view is very harmonious - sharp-angled headlights and a strongly protruding bumper attract attention in it.

Gentlemanly manners?

Of course, with the change of generations, both the Subaru Forester and Mitsubishi Outlander have become more comfortable - but they had to sacrifice. Of course, Subaru allows you to move on rough terrain more confidently, but sooner or later it gives up. But Mitsubishi Outlander wins in terms of capacity, although it is inferior to a competitor in terms of dynamics and interior design style.

Technology does not stand still, providing people with a convenient and comfortable life. Today there are many means of transportation. Next, we will consider two popular crossovers of Japanese origin. How are they similar, what are their differences and which car is better to choose? Subaru Forester VS Mitsubishi Outlander!

Subaru Forester entered the market in 1997 and won the honorary title the founder of crossovers... Taking the Impreza model as a basis, the car perfectly combines the features of an SUV and a sedan, and also continues to delight fans with reliable and high-quality equipment, as evidenced by sales figures.

Subaru Forester is a very popular species in the United States of America: over the past five 5 years it has been sold there more than half a million cars... During the period of its existence, 5 generations have been created. The Subaru Forester remains virtually unchanged from year to year. The design and internal technology are being improved, but no new features are being introduced. In this regard, manufacturers are very conservative.

As noted earlier, Forester is practical car... The spaciousness of the cabin will satisfy even the owners large family, which lives not only within the city, but also behind it. Thanks to the famous proprietary All Wheel Drive (AWD) system and all-wheel drive, the car has high stability and cross-country ability, ease of handling and good acceleration dynamics. Subaru's symmetrical four-wheel drive provides the driver with reliable traction in all weather conditions. Easy handling is also ensured by the use of gasoline boxer engines, which have an effect directly on the center of gravity, lowering it.

Compared to the first generation, subsequent models began to have a less aggressive appearance due to the smooth lines of the body.

If we focus on the latest generation of the Subaru Forester crossover, then external changes may not be seen: a new design of headlights, bumpers and other parts. But technically, the changes were made: now this car is based on the SGP (Subaru Global Platform) platform, which is created by the company for all new models.

Despite the fact that the dimensions of the vehicle remained the same as in the fourth generation, due to the increase in the wheelbase, the space for the rear passengers has increased. Ground clearance is also 220 km. Manufacturers have paid a lot of attention to the engine, working on its economy and vibration load, which is responsible for noise and shaking.

It first appeared on the market in 2001 under a different name - "Mitsubishi Airtrek", which expressed the main idea of ​​the Japanese crossover - pleasure and ease of driving. The first generation of this model was based on Mitsubishi ASX... The renaming of the model served to change the previous platform to GS.

Now the model had several power units, not only from Mitsubishi, but also from Volkswagen and Citroen. Now the main goal that came from the new name was to provide the client with the amenities for a long journey into unknown lands. Which means in translation from English - a stranger. So, the second generation Mitsubishi Outlander appeared on the market in 2005.

An interesting fact is that, despite the continuation of the production of the first generation under the old name, the production of the second generation began. However, this did not bother buyers, and the model was actively in demand. The third generation Mitsubishi Outlander appeared on the market in 2016. The rear part of the body, LED headlights, wheels, steering wheel design, as well as interior decorative elements have been modified.

All major Outlander modifications are equipped with an all-wheel drive system, except for two versions with front-wheel drive in the Inform and Invite configurations with an engine in 2 liters... In the course of the next update, Outlander received a number of design improvements: increased structural rigidity of the body, updated suspension, electric power steering, soundproof glass.

Also, additional noise insulation equipment is installed throughout the vehicle. With a three-liter engine of the Sport version, the crossover is equipped with an all-wheel drive system S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control), which, thanks to good traction, allows the driver to keep the car on the chosen trajectory.

Similarities

For comparison of cars, the latest generations are taken:

• The Subaru Forester and Mitsubishi Outlander are crossovers from the same price point.
• They have permanent four-wheel drive.
• They accelerate to 200 km per hour, having the same acceleration dynamics.
• Fuel type - gasoline.
• The gearbox is a variator.
• They have approximately the same dimensions with a capacity of 5 people, the number of doors (5).

Differences

1. The Subaru Forester has a fuel tank of 48 liters, while the Mitsubishi Outlander has 60 liters.
2. Forester weighs 1640 kg, while Outlander weighs 1490 kg.
3. They have a different layout: Mitsubishi Outlander - transverse power unit, Subaru Forester - longitudinal power unit.
4. Forester has a boxer engine, Outlander is in-line.
5. The luggage compartment of the Subaru Forester is larger than that of the Mitsubishi Outlander.

Rear suspension types: Subaru Forester - double wishbone, Mitsubishi Outlander - multi-link.

Which is better?

Compared models of Japanese crossovers have both similar and different features. The choice of vehicle will depend on the driver's preference for roads and driving. If the choice fell on off-road and natural exits, then Forester should be given preference for its downshift.

Outlander, on the other hand, combines easy handling and smooth running, which will be a pleasant bonus when driving on city roads in any weather conditions. Forester also has opposed powertrains, which affect the center of gravity and ensure its reduction. The car has high stability and cross-country ability, providing the driver and passengers with a safe ride.

Outlander, in turn, is suitable for city driving.: It handles corners and loose urban asphalt very well with precise trajectory. Such a mixture of an SUV with a passenger car will provide the driver with a comfortable and economical trip around the city. In addition, the car's engine runs quietly and smoothly.

The effect is striking: the cars in front of them seemed to be blown off the lane by the wind. However, if you have watched the film "Alexander Nevsky" and remember the "facial expression" of a German knight in a 13th century helmet, you will quickly understand what this is about. Imagine that you saw about the same thing in the rear-view mirror, but only the size of the entire rear window ...

The Teutonic, excuse me, "physiognomy" of the Mitsubishi Outlander fits perfectly with the Russian translation of its name - a stranger. And if under the hood he has a 2-liter gasoline engine so beloved in this sector (well, how can you not remember the CR-V!), Then the "Forester" (that is, Subaru Forester) with mechanical box transmission will be almost an ideal analogue for comparison with "Outlander". Not only are the purpose, dimensions, engine volume, basic equipment and its price close, but the drive scheme is the same: both have a permanent all-wheel drive with a symmetrical center differential blocked by a viscous coupling. Unlike most competitors, which have some kind of magic device that connects the rear wheels when the front wheels slip.

We got both cars with rather rich equipment. Outlander - in the Sport package for $ 29,790, which implies, in addition to the two front ones, two more side airbags, climate control, roof rails, some additional small decor inside and out, as well as alloy 16-inch wheels with 215/65 R 16 tires. Subaru Forester - about the same, but plus a radio tape recorder, cruise control and a huge sunroof, and the wheels are not 16, but 15-inch. But also cast, with tires 205/70 R 15. If he had still additional headlights in the bumper, then the "maximum" VR grade worth $ 31,490 would have turned out.

And now - important point... When we arrived to pick up the Outlander, we found very beautiful 17-inch Duemila wheels with Pirelli P6000 225/50 ZR 17 road tires that were not provided for by the specification, but it must be admitted that later these wheels had a certain influence on our estimates.

Inner thoughts
Hardly anyone doubts that outwardly the Forester is not as expressive as the Outlander. On the other hand, not everyone recognizes the expressiveness of the "Outlander" adequate to his image. However, if you consider the main function of the appearance of the car to be the establishment of the status quo among the neighbors in the stream, then purchasing the Outlander you will definitely not go wrong.

It is more difficult with the inside - you exist in it, but here you have something to think about. Do you like the trendy minimalism of Outlander, or do you prefer the classic style of the Forester? Do you think of a solid black wood-like overlay on the hard plastic of the Mitsubishi panel, or do the soft overlay and titanium-like Subaru console look more expensive? There are also quite objective things. For example, keep in mind that the Forester allows a long-legged driver to sit more comfortably, while the Outlander provides more legroom for those in the back. And also a few more "salon" and "luggage" observations, which you will find in the captions to the corresponding illustrations.
Outlander greeted the Moscow ring road with violent reactions to the rounded ruts made by studded tires in the asphalt of the extreme left lane. However, this is a normal behavior of a car, shod in wide low-profile "rubber", and we did not draw any special conclusions from this. Unless I just urgently wanted to write an article on the advisability of using thorns in the city.

It looks like a new era for the Mitsubishi engine builders. You will not find any traditional "pickup" in the region of 3500-4000 rpm - the characteristic is "ironed out" surprisingly. The engine confidently "pulls" already from low revs, followed by absolutely uniform acceleration in the entire range, right up to the very "tops". And the fact that the engine of the "Outlander" retains the ability to accelerate its massive body even after 6000 rpm helps a lot when overtaking.

Strict clarity of movements of the gear lever contributes to intensive acceleration, but you shouldn't drive too much: the lever will start to "rest". With the help of methods ancient, like the automotive world, it is easy to make sure that this sluggishness is on the conscience of the synchronizers, which means that it is clearly not necessary to force the switching speed. To avoid…

Subaru Forester is much more willing to "accept" acceleration on medium - so much so that acceleration is felt by the whole body. But it is inferior at the highest (after 5500 rpm) and clearly loses at the smallest: your desire to "crawl at idle" (for example, in a traffic jam) drives him into a seizure tremor, which can only be calmed by adding revs or using the clutch pedal. However, you can use a downshift.

After Mitsubishi, the gear lever appears vaguely dangling here, but don't jump to conclusions from that mere first impression. For in terms of its ability to shift quickly, this box is quite worthy of the well-known three-letter combinations most often used in conjunction with the Subaru brand (meaning WRC, WRX, STI. - Ed.).

At the highest speeds, it is noticeable that the "Outlander" motor is more powerful - above 160 km / h "Forester" is gaining less zeal. However, this is not the most practical observation - it is often not necessary to slow down on multi-lane highways, and normal people do not drive so fast on other roads.

But the essence of the car is in the wheel
Although on these cars - they could, and without much stress. We must pay tribute: the driving stability of both is excellent, regardless of the quality of the roadway. Unless, of course, we do not count the described reactions wide tire on the aforementioned tracks and other screw tricks of our road profile. However, after 120 km / h you stop noticing them. And all sorts of irregularities and Outlander, and Forester "swallow" completely indifferently - and not only at high speeds. And the turns "write" - like a compass on paper.

Mitsubishi Outlander and Subaru Forester - 2 urban mid-size cars from Japanese manufacturers. They belong to the category of urban crossovers with a rich production history that began in 2001 and 1997, respectively. The cars of the new generation have high ground clearance (215 and 220 mm) and an all-wheel drive transmission. However, the presence of a continuously variable variator in the running (best-selling) versions of the CUV clearly hints at their place of operation - the city and light country roads. You should not count on more.

Dimensions and design

The Outlander is longer than the competitor and provides a spacious and comfortable fit for rear passengers thanks to its larger wheelbase (+ 30 mm). Forester looks higher due to the raised roof. Subaru has a slightly higher ground clearance (220 versus 215 mm).

Table 1. Comparison of the main technical characteristics of Japanese crossoversOutlanderandForester

Characteristic	Mitsubishi Outlander	Subaru Forester
Machine dimensions, mm	4695 to 1800 to 1680 (with rails)	4610 (4595) at 1795 at 1735
Wheelbase, mm
Curb weight, kg
Maximum weight of the towed trailer, in t
Luggage compartment volume (standard and maximum), l	591 (477) / 1754 (1640)	489 / 1548 (1541)
Ground clearance, mm
Gas tank volume, l
Fuel consumption per 100 km (combined cycle), in l
Maximum speed of the top version, in km / h

With a larger wheelbase, the Outlander outperforms the competitor in terms of rear passenger space. The main advantage of the Forester is the high roof, which has become a characteristic feature of the car.

Mitsubishi Outlander looks more modern than its opponent, this is manifested in the rear of the car - when trimming the external body parts the Outlander uses a lot of chrome. Forester is simpler and more familiar, it has no original solutions in the exterior. Retained the former "courageous" appearance.

Both cars come in high-end trims with adaptive LED headlights, giving the SUV an expensive look.

When choosing a salon, you will have to focus on taste preferences. Medium quality finishing materials. The driver's seat is more comfortable in the Subaru Forester, as is the rear sofa. At Mitsubishi, it is a little more rigid.

Mitsubishi Outlander is more modern, more detailed in comparison with Forester, and corresponds to the corporate design concept. Forester's appearance has not changed over several model years and requires new design solutions. Landing is better in Subaru, and in terms of interior design, the cars are close to each other.

Choice of engines and gearboxes

For a Mitsubishi car, a choice of 2 gasoline engines that meet the environmental standard Euro-5 and have the DOHC system are offered. Both engines are capable of working properly on "92" gasoline. 4-cylinder 16-valve power units have a volume of 2 and 2.4 liters. The younger 2.0 engine develops 146 horsepower, while the 2.4-liter engine develops 167 horsepower.

One transmission is supplied for powertrains that are installed in Outlander. This is a CVT variator box, it works smoothly and silently. Like other continuously variable transmissions, it does not like active driving in a "ragged" rhythm with harsh braking.

It's worth talking about a special version of the Outlander called the GT. The main difference from conventional crossovers is the presence of a V6 with a volume of 3 liters. Technical characteristics of the 6-cylinder engine - 291 Nm of torque and 230 horsepower. The motor is paired with automatic transmission with 6 steps. This provides acceleration to 100 km / h in 8.7 seconds and a speed of 205 km / h.

Video: Comparative test drive: Subaru Forester SG and Subaru Forester SJ

With another Japanese car the same situation. Russians are offered a choice of 3 gasoline engines. The older one has a turbocharging system, therefore, with a 2.5-liter volume, it develops a power of 242 horsepower... The turbocharged engine with direct fuel injection offers good torque. In the range of 2400-3600 rpm, the turbo engine produces 350 units of torque. It works in conjunction with a continuously variable transmission (Lineartronic) and accelerates Subaru to the first hundred in 7.5 seconds.

The rest of the engines with a volume of 2 and 2.5 liters give out 150 and 171 hp. accordingly, they have a sequential multiport fuel injection system. The less powerful engine is equipped with a 6-speed "mechanics". For the 171-horsepower unit, only the variator is offered.
Forester engines are more powerful and high-torque, but more demanding on fuel quality (AI-95 is recommended). Outlander motors are slightly more economical.

The difference between modern "variators" and 6-speed "automatic machines" in terms of smoothness and fuel consumption is not so significant. Mitsubishi's 6-speed automatic transmission will become an advantage only for ardent opponents of CVT transmissions, since in terms of dynamics, the Subaru Forester in the Premium configuration surpasses the Outlander GT.

All-wheel drive systems

All Wheel Control - the all-wheel drive system installed in the Mitsubishi crossover provides independent control of each wheel, contributes to a confident and stable ride on light off-road. Works in 3 modes:

1. Eco(high fuel efficiency).

2. Auto(four-wheel drive engages automatically in complex road conditions).

3. Lock(off-road mode with maximum multi-plate clutch blocking).

Forester has a proprietary Symmetrical AWD system that distributes torque to 4 wheels. It works in a constant mode and improves the car's handling in difficult road conditions. The advantage of Subaru's all-wheel drive is the correct positioning, which contributes to a lower center of gravity and better roadholding.

Both four-wheel drive systems are functional and reliable. They are even designed for certain loads, but their capabilities are limited due to variator gearboxes and imperfect geometric cross-country ability (in the case of Outlander).

Video: Subaru Forester 2016 Test Drive / Subaru Forester 2016 Igor Burtsev

Equipment

Forester is offered in 8 trim levels - from the initial Base to the top-end Premium. The starting cost of the crossover is 1,659 thousand rubles. For comparison: Mitsubishi - 1,499 thousand rubles, and Russians can choose from 6 complete sets. Although for this price, the buyer will only get a mono-drive version of the urban crossover with a slightly less powerful engine (146 hp). Prices do not include discounts for special programs.

Standard equipment Mitsubishi crossover includes: 2 airbags, electrically operated side mirrors, rear LED optics, on-board computer, 6 speakers, climate control. The basic version of Subaru is richer due to heated front seats, a 7-inch color display, STARLINK system, 2 additional side airbags, and most importantly, the presence of an all-wheel drive transmission.

Driving experience

In the town

The Outlander is more comfortable in urban environments. Suspensions and variator are designed for operation on asphalt roads. Mitsubishi is intuitively simple and straightforward to operate, it allows you to start smoothly from a place without jerking or pecking.

The Forester is more dynamic and active compared to the Outlander. A car with a turbo engine contributes to a more agile ride compared to the average SUV. The Subaru's suspension feels a little too stiff in urban conditions. The driver and passengers will feel unevenness and defects of the road surface in the cabin of the "Japanese". The ride comfort is especially bad on bumpy roads. You have to put up with an unpleasant shaking.

In the city, it is more comfortable to drive a Mitsubishi Outlander. The competitor is a little more dynamic, but the stiffness of the suspension will take some getting used to.

Off-road

Table 2. Comparison of geometric crossovers

The body of the Subaru Forester is better suited for off-road adventures thanks to the specially shaped front and rear bumpers. As a result, Subaru has larger approach and exit angles compared to Mitsubishi.

An additional limitation for off-road capabilities is the short-travel suspensions. The Outlander succeeds in this, and strives to "hang the wheels" even on medium bumps. Mitsubishi does not have an imitation of interwheel differential locks, but it has a variator that is prone to overheating. An automatic transmission and a high-torque engine of 3 liters correct the situation, but here the geometric cross-country ability of the body becomes the weak link.

Forester is tougher and more unpretentious off-road. Allows you to drive more actively over rough terrain without fear of overheating of the transmission (at moderate loads). The continuously variable variator is rented out much later than the same mechanism from another car. But the main advantage of the Subaru mid-size crossover is the presence of a special electronic system that simulates the locking of inter-wheel differentials.

The cars are mid-size crossovers with 4x4 transmissions that go off-road. The sensations will be different. A trip to Outlander will be a hassle. Forester will show off-road inclinations and fighting character, but still, this "Japanese" should not be subjected to severe tests.

What to choose?

Outlander is preferred for urban use. The Mitsubishi Outlander is more comfortable on smooth asphalt roads. Has a stylish and memorable appearance. Subaru - more versatile vehicle ready for moderate off-road driving. Pleases with dynamics, gambling handling, composure on the road. The main drawback is inappropriate harshness in the city. Not every driver will like this.

Subaru forester

2.5 L, 171 HP, CVT, Trend Sport

RUB 1,590,000

Mitsubishi outlander

2.0 L, 145 HP, CVT, Instyle

RUB 1,269,990

TULA REGION. RUSSIAN CHERNOZEM

“All last night it was raining like a wall, almost a monthly norm of precipitation fell,” the local radio presenter reported as we turned off the asphalt towards the “estate” of one of our colleagues. He immediately somehow got pissed off: he knew how everything could end, but he didn't say a word to us. Apparently, he was afraid that we, frightened of difficulties, would turn back.

In the meantime, we are rolling on a level grader, admiring the vastness. Freshly plowed fields are alarming with huge puddles. Everyone knows: it is hard to drive through the soggy black soil. The sun is hot - you see, by the evening everything will dry up. But we have no time to wait!

A colleague gives a signal - having turned off the stabilization system, we turn into a soggy rut. Deep! "Outlander" often scratches the bottom on the ground, but "Forester" is not noticed in this. Cars crawl from side to side, throwing clods of mud around, but they go. Wheels keep slipping - toothy tires would be preferable here. And these, especially on the road, are instantly washed out, and now Mitsubishi has become a prisoner of the black earth quagmire. We put on our boots, we disembark. Yeah, sat on your belly. There is no sense in transferring the 4x4 transmission to permanent all-wheel drive. There is no sense in jerking in the forward-backward mode either. They pulled themselves up - and pushed out together. Even Subaru didn't need help.

On the road again. In the rut one can feel: the "Outlander" variator is working to the limit. You press, you press the accelerator, and the engine speed hardly grows, it is no wonder to skid again. And after all, he got stuck - he had to go through the swamp with speed, but Mitsubishi did not have time to gain sufficient speed. This time it was not possible to get out on our own - I had to pull it out with the "Forester". Once, and you're done!

It seems that the Subaru doesn’t care at all - rushing forward like a tractor! It goes easily, with a margin, as if a slightly soggy primer under the wheels. The most interesting thing is that its variator does not fail in deep mud - it regularly transfers traction to the wheels and allows it to accelerate linearly, without delays. Even after forty minutes of such a ride, he was not tired at all, he continued to act with the same efficiency. Excellent unit! Its amazing performance is explained, apparently, by the rejection of the V-belt transmission (this is exactly the case for Mitsubishi) in favor of the V-belt transmission, which transfers the load better. Believe me, off-road this is how it feels.

A colleague encourages: now, they say, we will go up the hill, and there it is a stone's throw to the dacha. It's easy to say, because he is in the Forester, and my Outlander got up in the middle of the slope and refused to go further. I roll back. After a decent acceleration, I nevertheless took the height - and I see how "Subaru" is rolling down. Good for him: there is an electronic assistant for descent from the mountain. Mitsubishi does not have such; however, we ourselves know how to slow down.

But the main obstacle lies ahead. The river, usually a meter and a half wide and ankle-deep, overflowed during the night - we will have to force it. The Forester went first. Made a wave in front of the bumper, and she tore off the number with ease. Well, we noticed it in time. With the following track "Outlander" - it happens the same! - exactly in the same place the same opportunity happened.

While looking for numbers, water seeped into the Subaru's cabin, and it arrived quickly. Instantly we got to the shore, and here we have a long-awaited dacha. Have arrived! We put the Forester with its nose down so that everything flows out of the drainage holes in the body. Well, they themselves accelerated the process by scooping up. While they were draining, the car hummed and groaned with all its components and assemblies, like a disgruntled dog who was taken out for a walk in bad weather. After about ten minutes, the extraneous noises subsided, the air was filled with a much more pleasant chirping of birds. It was worth skidding for this.

FIVE HOURS EARLIER. DMITROVSKY POLYGON

Crossovers spend most of their time on land, so we fan them out on the asphalt of the landfill. From the very first meters behind the wheel of the "Forester" one can feel: it is sharpened for active driving. The harsh suspension regularly transmits every crack in the coating to the interior. At the same time, the energy intensity of the chassis is impressive: it seems impossible to bring the matter to a breakdown. At high speeds, the car becomes more comfortable, as if hovering over patches of asphalt. Nothing leads her astray - a monolith! This is exactly the case when more stroke means fewer holes. The steering settings are also pleasing: sensitive, informative, with instant responses. Even at speeds well over a hundred, the Subaru remains under complete control. And there is enough motor. One-piece car.

The Outlander showed very different habits. Its suspension perfectly isolates the interior from road trifles, but on larger irregularities it shakes more than in the "Forester". The blows are transmitted to the steering wheel. The steering wheel is very light, feedback is lacking, and "zero" is absent as a class. In cornering "Mitsubishi" does not stand as firmly as "Subaru", which is why you automatically grab the steering wheel. It is better not to rush - you like the Outlander more when driving slowly than when driving actively. Moreover, the noisy duet on high revs The 2-liter engine and variator does not dispose to recklessness. To spur the car, he constantly fiddled with the paddle shifters. I think after a month or two of operation I would polish them to a shine.

Eve in the afternoon. MOSCOW

It so happened that I had never dealt with the new "Outlander" before, so I look at its salon with passion. After the dull interior of its predecessor, it looks more interesting, there is something to catch the eye. It looks great as if the center console suspended in the air, slightly turned towards the driver. Devices with a color display in the middle are good. I will praise the visibility. The quality of the plastic is not bad, but the leatherette on the door panels looks too cheap. There is not enough attention to detail: the bottom of the trays and niches is not rubberized, the buttons are rough, the handbrake is located on the passenger side, there is no case for glasses. But I was pleased with the spaciousness in the second row - you can throw one leg over the other! And the floor tunnel is small. It is a pity, the doors do not swing wide open - it is inconvenient to sit down.

Once you go to Outlander, you immediately realize that it is cheaper than the Forester: the finishing is inexpensive. And in other nuances, the economy is felt.

I also haven't driven the new Forester before, but I look at its interior without much interest. After all, it is exactly the same as that of the well-known Subaru-XV crossover. Everything is familiar: cool seats, a grasping steering wheel, spectacular instruments, the arrows of which, after turning on the ignition, as in sports cars, shoot to the extreme position and return back. Visibility, however, is worse than in the Outlander.

And all the same, in the good-quality interior of "Forester" it is more comfortable - it is felt that this is a more expensive car. He has better finishing materials, the "music" sounds richer ("Harman Cardon", by the way). Such an element of luxury as the electric tailgate did not go unnoticed either. The trunk itself, however, is not as spacious as that of Mitsubishi. And there is less space on the back sofa. But there can be no talk of crowdedness.

AFTER TESTING. EDITORIAL

While placing the marks after the tests, I caught myself thinking that there was nothing special to remember about Mitsubishi. Outlander left no trace in my soul, ordinary car. Spacious, comfortable, but nothing more. But "Forester" caused much more emotions: bright, dynamic, with good cross-country ability. A ride on such a trip will not be forgotten for a long time (especially on the Tula mud!). But the crossing of the ford was not in vain - the audio amplifier hidden under the front seat burned out, scooping up water. It was a good "music" - sorry, did not play for long. But even this moment did not spoil the overall impression. One memory of Forester will be more!

READY FOR OFF-ROAD?

Measuring the Subaru's ground clearance:

pretty surprised - 225 mm! Not every SUV has one, let alone crossovers. And in the rear of the Forester we measured even more - 235 mm. Considering the small overhangs and the serious angle of the ramp, the geometrical cross-country ability of the "Forester" should be recognized as excellent. It is a pity that the Japanese limited themselves to this and did not protect the engine compartment with a metal plate. But in general, the bottom is flat, without protruding elements.

The manufacturer should also be scolded for the front towing eyes: too narrow to get to them is inconvenient:

Mitsubishi liked the towing eyes both in shape and location:

The Outlander's ground clearance is much less, but its 200 mm is still a good result for a crossover. Moreover, the manufacturer did not save on the metal protection of the engine compartment:

The front and rear overhangs are larger than the Forester. Geometric cross-country ability is worsened by the spare wheel under the bottom - its mount all the time clung to the ground, there was stuffed grass.

SO DIFFERENT CVT

The endurance of the variators was also checked on the high-speed ring of the polygon, along which we drove with maximum speed... After 10 km, Mitsubishi started having problems: the transmission groaned plaintively, the engine speed dropped, and a proposal to reduce the speed was displayed on the dashboard (photo 1).