Mitsubishi Outlander overall review
The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander is a modest yet reliable and quite capable cornerstone of the mid-size SUV segment that will provide a sufficient solution to most families’ driving needs.
Though sufficient, the Outlander has some glaring drawbacks that are sure to keep some buyers at bay. The “third-row” pair of jump seats are almost unusable, except when occupied by toddlers or small children that, in many cases, should be sat in child seats in the second row. Secondly, the underpowered 181HP engine would not be my first pick for a fully loaded 7-passenger vehicle. Or second, third or fourth pick, for that matter. Let’s just say it’s in the top 5. Taking this into consideration, the Outlander actually provides a rather pleasant driving experience when loaded with a 5 person family, and many would consider the smaller engine displacement a blessing with rising gas prices across the country.
With the industry-leading 10-year manufacturer’s powertrain warranty in the back of your mind, this vehicle screams sensibility to a young family or those looking to have a low-cost option that won’t worry you late into ownership.
Rating out of 5 stars
Eric’s rating: 3.5 / 5 stars.
Is Mitsubishi Outlander a good car?
The Outlander offers practicality and reliability with an industry-leading warranty. It is a fantastic option for those looking for peace of mind and a safe driving experience. Mitsubishi’s acclaimed AWD platform gives the Outlander excellent 4 season capability, even in the snowiest of climates.
Pros
- Great fuel economy for a 7-seat AWD SUV
- Redesigned interior and exterior provide a modern, stylish look
- Ample legroom and headroom in the second row
- Standard safety features on all trim levels
- Affordable price point compared to other midsize SUVs in its class
Is it comfortable?
The 2022 Outlander’s interior redesign makes it more comfortable up to a point. And that point is the third row. Yes, the first and second rows have ample leg and headroom for passengers, and the second-row seats can slide and recline for added comfort. However, the third row is best left for kids and pets. The cabin is also known to provide a smooth ride; however, there have been reports of the seats being too firm, which is not to everyone's liking.
Is it fun to drive and have a decent engine?
The standard engine is a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine that is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While this powertrain provides adequate power for everyday driving, it may not satisfy those looking for a more exciting or sporty driving experience. Many reviewers have noted that the engine can feel underpowered and lacking in acceleration.
Is it good value for money?
The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander has been praised by experts and consumers for its affordable price point compared to other midsize SUVs in its class. With a starting price of around $31,998, the Outlander offers good value for those looking for a budget-friendly SUV with a good list of standard features.
Is it reliable?
The 2022 Outlander is a completely redesigned model, so it's too early to tell how reliable it will be in the long term. However, Mitsubishi has made efforts to improve its reliability in recent years by offering a comprehensive warranty and focusing on quality control.
Is it safe?
The Outlander has received high safety ratings from reputable organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
In addition to these crash test ratings, the Outlander comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offer additional safety features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
How does it perform against the competition?
The Outlander falls short in some areas compared to its competitors. The standard four-cylinder engine is underpowered compared to many rivals, and the interior materials are not up to par with some competitors. In terms of positives, the 2022 Outlander offers good value for money thanks to its lower starting price and a long list of standard safety features.
Does it come with a good manufacturer’s warranty?
The best in the biz! The Outlander comes with a 5-year/100,000 km bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 10-year/160,000 km powertrain warranty.
Does the Mitsubishi Outlander have a lot of problems?
The rare issues reported by owners and reviewers of the Mitsubishi Outlander are transition issues such as slipping, hesitation, and difficulty shifting gears, as well as electrical issues with the infotainment system and power windows.
Cons
- Some owners complain of over-sensitive steering
- 20-inch wheels lend to a bumpier ride on uneven surfaces
- Can be a bit noisy when driving at highway speeds
- Sluggish acceleration
- Limited cargo space compared to other mid-sized SUV competitors
Who is the Mitsubishi Outlander best for?
This is a great vehicle for a family or adventurer looking for a city driver with light off-road capabilities. The Outlander supports an active lifestyle while placing importance on practicality, reliability and safety.
Why should I buy a Mitsubishi Outlander?
Overall, the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander is a good option for families looking for an affordable, practical, and comfortable midsize SUV with good safety features and a comprehensive warranty.