Comparison: Ground clearance Mitsubishi Outlander vs. competitors 2025

Roll back the clock to 2003, and the first generation Outlander was almost scrappling its belly like a dachshund. It's a mystery shrouded in the mists of time, as we've got a big fat zero in the data column for its ground clearance. Fast forward a bit, and we find the second generation (2007 - 2012) hoisting itself up by its bootstraps to a respectable 215mm clearance, perfect for frolicking over more than just speed bumps. However, the third-gen (2012 onwards) decided to tone down the altitude to 190mm, perhaps for a cozier ride that didn't flirt so readily with the ozone layer. But let's not forget, with great ground clearance comes... well, less trunk space, as the most recent Outlanders have shaved off precious cargo volume when they have slimmed down their undercarriage.

In the Mitsubishi motley crew, the Outlander stands tall – or should I say, appropriately elevated. It's practically sneering at the grub-hugging Colt and Space Star with their scant 142mm and 150mm clearances. The ASX inches closer with 174mm, but it's the hoity-toity Eclipse Cross, prancing around at a lofty 191mm, that narrowly pips the Outlander to the post.

But how does our sturdy Outlander stand its ground against those other metal beasts prowling the suburbs? Well, the Outlander's modernized 190mm clearance sets it snugly in the middle of the vehicular ecosystem. It humbly bows before the throne of the Range Rover Evoque and its towering brethren, like the BMW X1, which scoff at 215mm and 194mm, respectively. Even the Lexus NX and its 185mm can't resist a little gloating. However, let's not forget about the likes of the MG EHS and the Toyota Urban Cruiser, lurking at a less sky-kissing 145mm and 140mm, respectively. But, the Outlander can smirk at the modest ground clearance of Renault Express and Mercedes-Benz GLA with their meager 160mm and pitiful 134mm. The dimensions tell a tale as well; the Outlander doesn't just have moderate clearance but also strikes a balance in length and wheelbase, making it a capable contender without turning into a limousine on stilts.