The Outlander is generally considered better than the BMW X1 due to its versatility, affordability, and practicality. The Outlander offers a spacious interior, a strong all-wheel-drive system, and a competitive price point, making it an excellent choice for families and those seeking a reliable SUV. On the other hand, the BMW X1 is a premium compact SUV known for its luxury features and performance, but it comes at a higher price and may not offer the same level of practicality as the Outlander.

The Outlander boasts a larger cargo capacity and more passenger space compared to the BMW X1. According to U.S. News & World Report, the 2021 Outlander has a cargo capacity of 69.5 cubic feet with the second row down, while the 2021 BMW X1 has a cargo capacity of 53.1 cubic feet with the second row down. This makes the Outlander more suitable for families or those who need to transport larger items. Additionally, the Outlander's starting price is significantly lower than the BMW X1, with the 2021 Outlander starting at around $25,000, while the 2021 BMW X1 starts at around $35,000. This price difference can be a deciding factor for many consumers.

In terms of performance, the Outlander offers a more balanced driving experience with its standard all-wheel-drive system and a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The BMW X1, while offering a more powerful 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, may be overkill for most drivers and can be less fuel-efficient. According to the EPA, the 2021 Outlander achieves an estimated fuel economy of 25 mpg combined, while the 2021 BMW X1 achieves an estimated fuel economy of 23 mpg combined. This difference in fuel efficiency can lead to higher long-term costs for the BMW X1.

Furthermore, the Outlander has received higher safety ratings compared to the BMW X1. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has given the 2021 Outlander a Top Safety Pick+ rating, while the 2021 BMW X1 has received a lower rating. This indicates that the Outlander offers better safety features and crash-test performance.

In conclusion, the Mitsubishi Outlander is generally considered better than the BMW X1 due to its versatility, affordability, practicality, and safety ratings. While the BMW X1 offers luxury and performance, it may not be the most practical or cost-effective choice for most consumers.