Engine and box
Mitsubishi offers a proven atmospheric 2.4-liter engine paired with a CVT, a combination the Japanese brand has long mastered. Haval countered with a turbo engine connected to a pre-selective automatic, a setup common in many Chinese models. By theory, the latter may be less reliable in daily use.
Additionally, Outlander has already established the source of its main components, and more details about the strengths and weaknesses of this Japanese crossover can be found here. The Dargo entered our market a little over six months ago, so repair statistics remain relatively sparse. In this competition, Mitsubishi secures a decisive win.
Chassis settings
Until recently, Chinese cars often faced criticism for suspension comfort. Times have shifted. The Dargo now showcases a well-tuned, energy-absorbing chassis that handles rough surfaces and uneven primer better than expected. Cornering stability is strong, and the car maintains composure on challenging roads (read more about Dargo’s road behavior here).
Outlander performs similarly on the road. For a Japanese model this is standard, but for a Chinese model it stands out as a notable advantage. Yet, the result is a draw overall.
Surprisingly, Mitsubishi’s robust all-wheel-drive know-how helped Haval overcome the illusion of a traditional diagonal suspension, a feat Outlander did not replicate.
Design and equipment
The current third generation of the Mitsubishi Outlander is more than a decade old. Despite some updates, its exterior remains understated and the interior feels restrained and dated. In contrast, the Dargo presents a stronger design sense, a stylish interior, genuine leather, and an overall more dynamic feel.
Yet the Dargo lacks some practical touches that are familiar to mainstream Europeans, and the multimedia systems differ markedly between the two models. The Chinese crossover offers vivid graphics, an extensive menu, numerous settings, and camera systems of a quality often likened to a home TV.
Between the interiors, the Mitsubishi and Haval sit on opposite ends of the spectrum. Outlander appeals to drivers seeking simplicity and reliability over flair.
Warranty and prices
For buyers prioritizing assurance, Chinese models currently carry strong momentum with longer warranty offers and consistent market presence. Mitsubishi has not officially announced withdrawal, only a temporary pause in operations; parts are still imported, though the long-term availability is uncertain.
Haval Dargo, priced from around 3 to 3.55 million rubles in official listings, frequently benefits from discounts and promotions. The remaining Mitsubishi Outlander stock is priced from roughly 2.69 to 3.98 million rubles, with dealership markups common. From a financial perspective, Haval appears more attractive. The Dargo again holds the edge in overall value under these conditions.
Who won?
What many expected has been confirmed. The Chinese models edged out the Japanese with a 2:1 score. It is important to note that drawing conclusions for the whole market from a single test is unreliable, especially when a modern model faces a well-established veteran. Still, there is a clear trend: Chinese brands are increasingly favored, and price is no longer the sole deciding factor.
Nominated for the Grand Prix “Behind the Wheel”
New models released in 2024 or redesigned in 2023 are eligible for the Driving Grand Prix. Restyling counts as well. The Haval Dargo is regarded as a 100% new model.
Vote – win Lada!
Participants in the Behind the Wheel Grand Prix vote help identify the top car introductions of the year.
As a token of appreciation, three ferrets will be raffled among survey participants who complete the questionnaire before the deadline. The promotion runs through late February of the year following the release.
COMPLETE THE 2023 DRIVING GRAND PRIX QUESTIONNAIRE
All details about the event are collected in a dedicated section on the site. (Source: Automotive Review)