Sometimes it's worth looking beyond horsepower alone when shopping for an SUV. The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport isn't as powerful as the Mazda CX-30, but it does at least one job that the CX-30 can't do. Let's take a look at the different strengths of these compact crossovers, so you know which vehicle is the best bet for your family.
Key Takeaways
- Every Outlander Sport can tow up to 2,000 pounds; the CX-30 does not have a tow rating (more on that below).
- The Outlander Sport has no changes for 2026; the CX-30 gets two new trims and a limited-slip differential.
- The CX-30 does have larger touchscreens than the Outlander Sport.
Do the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport and Mazda CX-30 Have Changes in 2026?
The Outlander Sport returns unchanged for 2026—it has the same trims, features, and powertrains from the previous model year.
The CX-30 does have a few changes. Two new Aire Edition models join the lineup, adding styling touches like white leatherette seating, gray suede interior accents, black exterior badging, and black 18-inch wheels. Mazda also equips the CX-30 with a limited-slip differential to improve corner handling.
Engines in the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport and Mazda CX-30
The Outlander Sport offers two engine choices. Most trims feature a 148-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder. But the range-topping SEL upgrades to a 168-horsepower 2.4-liter engine. Both engines pair with a continuously variable transmission or CVT, and every Outlander Sport comes standard with all-wheel drive.
Mazda gives buyers more power across the lineup. The standard 2.5-liter engine generates 191 horses, while an available 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder version boosts output to as much as 250 horsepower. Every CX-30 also includes standard all-wheel drive, but it uses a conventional six-speed automatic transmission instead of a CVT.
While the MX-30 has the more powerful engine, the Outlander Sport is the performance leader in this particular competition.
Powertrains
| 2026 Mitsubishi Outland Sport | 2026 Mazda CX-30 |
| 2.0-liter four-cylinder or 2.4-liter engine | 2.5-liter or 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| CVT | 6 speed automatic |
| AWD | AWD |
Which SUV Is a More Capable Tower—the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport or Mazda CX-30?
This is one category where the Outlander Sport separates itself. When properly equipped, it can tow up to 2,000 pounds.
Believe it or not, Mazda doesn't publish an official towing capacity for the CX-30s in the U.S., and advises against using the vehicle to tow altogether. If pulling a trailer is part of your plans (and for most families, it is), the Outlander Sport is the more practical choice.
Top Tech in the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport vs Mazda CX-30
The Outlander Sport's S and ES models feature a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen. Higher trims get an 8-inch display with SiriusXM, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Physical volume and tuning knobs are still very much part of the picture in the Outlander Sport, for customers who like their tactile feel and easy adjustments.
The CX-30's displays are larger—from 8.8 inches to 10.3 inches on turbocharged models. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and Mazda Connected Services are standard. Most trims also include Alexa Built-in, while upper trims add factory navigation with live traffic updates.
Are You Still Unsure of Which Small SUV Makes More Sense for Your Family?
Reading specifications is one thing, but getting behind the wheel is the best way to see if an SUV is the right fit. Visit us at St Pete Mitsubishi today to experience the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander in person.