Overview
The Mitsubishi Outlander is a compact SUV with three rows of seating, a quirky exterior design, and a comfortable ride for your everyday driving needs. Problems arise when talk turns to the outdated infotainment system, feeble standard four-cylinder engine, loads of body lean in cornering, and interior quality that trails just about every one of the Outlander’s direct rivals.
What’s New for 2017?
All Outlander’s now come standard with a 6.1-inch infotainment system, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility are available for the first time. If safety is a primary concern, the 2017 Outlander is now fitted with a standard rearview camera, with a surround-view parking camera optional on higher trims.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The base engine in the Outlander is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that delivers 166 horsepower and 224 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels via a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). All-wheel drive is optional with this powertrain. SUV shoppers who simply want basic transportation and above-average fuel economy might be happy with this engine, though its meek acceleration at highway speed is a reminder that you should have ordered the optional V-6. The Outlander GT has standard all-wheel drive and comes with a 224-hp 3.0-liter V-6. Performance is swifter, to be sure, and the soft suspension is comfortable. The drawback here is the Outlander’s excessive body lean during cornering.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The ace up the sleeve of the Outlander is its standard third-row seating configuration. This is extremely rare among compact SUVs, though it must be said that the Outlander’s rear perches are tiny and only suitable for kids. Generally speaking, the cabin is attractive, but it’s also starting to show its age. Far too many cheap plastics are evident, though this is less of a problem should you decide to splurge on the leather-lined interior found in the GT trim. Cargo space—10.3 cubic feet behind the third-row seats and 63.3 with two rows folded—is competitive for its class, and cabin storage is adequate.
Infotainment and Connectivity
While the 2017 Outlander now comes standard with a 6.1-inch touchscreen, the graphics and menus are dated and can be clunky to navigate while on the move. On the plus side, having Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available works to the Outlander’s advantage. Standard tech touches include a single USB port and HD radio, while upgrades include a 7.0-inch touchscreen, satellite radio, navigation, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a punchy nine-speaker Rockford Fosgate stereo.
Get a Mitsubishi Outlander on Garisea here
