Mitsubishi Outlander vs BMW X1
What's the difference?

Mitsubishi Outlander

$39,990 - $74,490

2026 price

View pricing & specs

BMW X1

$29,888 - $77,990

2023 price

View pricing & specs

Chery Tiggo 8 PRO MAX

Land Rover Discovery Sport

Mercedes-Benz EQ-Class

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Mercedes-Benz G63

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLS

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

Mini Countryman

Mitsubishi ASX

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Mitsubishi Pajero

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Summary

2026 Mitsubishi Outlander

2023 BMW X1

By Tom White

By Laura Berry

Safety Rating

Engine Type

—

Turbo 4, 2.0L

Fuel Type

—

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

—

7.2L/100km (combined)

Seating

—

Likes

Meaningful tuning upgrades
Practical, spacious interior
Solid ownership terms

Spacious
Great cabin storage
Easy to drive

Dislikes

Engine/CVT combo a bit dull
PHEV not here yet
Tight third row

Pricey
Servicing on the expensive side
Small fuel tank

2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Summary

In the realm of family friendly mid-size SUVs, few names have the same reputation as Mitsubishi’s Outlander.

While this new one looks almost identical to the previous version, it’s hiding some serious, Australian-flavoured changes under the skin.

But in a segment now full of not only upgraded mainstream rivals, but also new cut-price alternatives from China, does such a modest upgrade to the Outlander do enough to deserve your consideration in such a crowded market?

We went to its Australian launch to find out.

View full pricing & specs

2023 BMW X1 Summary

BMW’s X1 has changed. In a good way. Especially if you’re thinking about buying one as a family car.

Yep, last year the third-generation X1 arrived and after 13 years and three different attempts on a design, BMW has nailed it. And by ‘it’ I mean built a super practical and spacious small SUV that’s great to drive.

See, as a dad of two kids, when it comes to cars and my family ‘it’ means something totally different to what ‘it’ meant 10 years ago.

And that’s what this review is about: does the BMW X1, and specifically this xDrive20i M Sport variant we’ve tested here, make a good family car?

If you're thinking of buying it for your family then you need to read this and also consider the likes of Audi’s Q3 and the Mercedes-Benz GLB.

View full pricing & specs

Deep dive comparison

2026 Mitsubishi Outlander 2023 BMW X1

Verdict

Mitsubishi has leaned into its strengths with this Outlander update, spending its money in subtle areas to upgrade what was already a widely appealing mid-size SUV.

The local tuning has made a notable difference to the refinement and comfort of this version, while subtle updates to the software and interior trim help to refine things even further.

If you’ve had an Outlander before, you’ll love this one, although it doesn’t help the brand to challenge new players on the value front. This leaves you with the decision of whether to pick a brand with the reputation and network of Mitsubishi, or roll the dice on a far more affordable new player.

For what it’s worth, it’s genuinely tough to pick a sweet spot here. I think the best picks are at either end of the spectrum, with the ES being outstanding value, and the Exceed being particularly plush.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.

Verdict

This new BMW X1 feels like it's been built by a team of parents because it’s one of the most practical and easy to use small SUVs my family and I have ever lived with and, trust me, they’ve seen a lot of test cars come through the Berry garage.

We loved the roomy interior with high ceilings, the clever storage everywhere from the giant door pockets to the floating centre armrest up front and big boot for our pram.

Entry and exit is easy through the tall and wide doors, something my back was thankful for every time I had to put our baby into her car seat.

Driving is easy, with great visibility and the engine that comes in the xDrive20i M Sport makes this X1 sporty and fun to pilot, too.

The only drawback is the price, it's a bit expensive but at the same time you are getting a high-quality feeling SUV.

Mitsubishi Outlander vs BMW X1 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Mitsubishi Outlander vs BMW X1
What's the difference?