Mitsubishi Outlander

Overview: Is the Mitsubishi Outlander a Good SUV?

The Mitsubishi Outlander delivers family-sized utility and available plug-in hybrid efficiency in an affordable package. Available in two- and three-row configurations, it seats up to seven passengers and uses a conventional four-cylinder engine or plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain. The Outlander is underpinned by the popular Nissan Rogue, a result of Mitsubishi's alliance with Nissan.

Although the Outlander has been around since the 2003 model year, this overview covers more recent editions:

• Second-generation Mitsubishi Outlander: 2007-2013
• Third-generation Mitsubishi Outlander: 2014-2021
• Fourth-generation Mitsubishi Outlander: 2022-Current

Given the Outlander’s multi-row configuration, it competes with many crossover vehicles, including the Nissan Rogue, Toyota Highlander, Volkswagen Tiguan, Subaru Outback, Kia Sorento, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, and Ford Escape. The Outlander PHEV competes with other plug-in hybrids, such as the Toyota RAV4 Prime. Mitsubishi Motors’ crossover-focused lineup includes the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross and the Outlander Sport.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Mitsubishi Outlander cars for sale.

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Related: 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Pros and Cons: What To Know When Weighing Your Decision

Key Features

The Mitsubishi Outlander offers:

• Five-door compact crossover SUV body style
• Five-seat or seven-seat configurations (varying by year)
• Four-cylinder or PHEV powertrain (a V6 was offered before the fourth generation)
• Manual, automatic, or continuously variable transmission (CVT) (varying by year)
• Front wheel drive (FWD) or all wheel drive (AWD)

Trims

The ES trim anchors the Mitsubishi Outlander regardless of generation, with the SE grade offering a mid-tier option. The SEL serves as the top offering in the current edition. The Outlander PHEV comes in the same trim range (ES, SE, and SEL).

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

No one will complain about sitting in the front row of an Outlander, but that’s not always the case with the second row, as some Mitsubishi Outlander interiors are compact in the back. Third-row seating is best occupied by children. Older Mitsubishi Outlanders are focused more on essential equipment. However, the latest generation is a technological powerhouse with the latest driver-assist technology, like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, rear cross traffic alert, and lane keep assist. Cargo capacity is typical for vehicles in this class.

Review: Here Are The Mitsubishi Outlander Years To Avoid

How It Drives

With four-cylinder power and the CVT, there’s enough horsepower and torque to move the Outlander adequately. Older generations with the V6 are zippier, as is the Outlander PHEV. The Outlander’s handling is firm and secure, made more confident when all wheel drive is part of the powertrain.

Safety

The second and third generations of the Outlander received top five-star overall safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The fourth generation dropped to a still acceptable four-star ranking.

Reviews

According to Kelley Blue Book, Mitsubishi Outlander reviews average 4.6 out of 5 stars for the second and third generations. Owners cite reliability, value, and comfort as highlights. The ranking drops to 4.0 for the current generation, as consumers were less favorable about quality and performance.

Learn More: How Long Do Mitsubishi Outlanders Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

FAQs

How many miles will the Mitsubishi Outlander last?

With proper maintenance, most Outlanders can deliver 150,000-200,000 miles of service before major issues arise. Stay on top of routine fluid changes, tire rotations, and any pending recalls to maximize longevity.

Why is Mitsubishi so cheap?

Mitsubishi forgoes some of the latest luxury touches to maintain an affordable price point and appeal to value-oriented shoppers. Some rivals offer more power or refinement, but Mitsubishi includes ample standard features, especially with newer models.

Is Mitsubishi as reliable as Toyota?

When using J.D. Power ratings as a baseline, the dependability of Mitsubishi and Toyota varies by model and year. For instance, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 rates lower for quality and reliability than the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander. The ranking reverses for the 2022 model year. It’s too early to tell how the plug-in hybrid editions, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and Toyota RAV4 Prime, hold up.

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