Here's a sneak preview of an upcoming Compact Crossover SUV comparison test we've got headed your way. The four combatants are the Mitsubishi Outlander, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V and Nissan Rogue. Part of our evaluation included kicking up some dirt at an off-road recreation park. We stuck to the easy (green circle) rated trails, as we realize these cute 'utes are more for driving in slippery weather and for light trailwork than for Rubicon-level boulder bashing.
Our long-term Outlander represented the three-diamonds company and though it got briefly stuck a few times on a couple of slippery sandy slopes, some "back up and take a different tack" maneuvering quickly took care of that. On the road, the Outlander (and its street-oriented touring tires) was more in its element with its relatively sporty handling. 
For me, this comparo was a close one, and based on my early gut feelings was more a pair of ties for first and second than a 1,2,3,4, finish. And that's all I'm saying for now!
John DiPietro, Automotive Editor @ 9,225 miles
Add a comment