Mitsubishi Outlander 2019 review, prices and specs (2023)

Overview

The original-looking Outlander is stigmatized for its dated styling and mediocre performance, but it also packs specialized features that few if any of its rivals can match. These include a standard third row of seats and a plug-in hybrid powertrain that can run on electricity alone and has fast-charging capability. While the 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander has a comfortable ride and competitive options, its infotainment system is dated and its third row is very crowded. Apart from the more affordable models in the range and the innovative hybrid system, most alternatives outperform the Outlander.

What's new for 2019?

The 2019 Outlander receives a number of changes including revised front-end styling and standard 18-inch wheels. Each model also gets more comfortable and supportive front seats, upgraded interior trim, newly illuminated window controls, rear-seat climate control vents and a power parking brake. In addition, all gasoline models have revised suspension and steering, which Mitsubishi says have improved handling and ride quality. The company claims that the new Outlander is also quieter. A spare tire is no longer available, but all models havea tire repair kit. The SE trim now gets soft-touch seats, along with power-adjustable front seats and a rear USB port, which are also on the SEL and GT tops. Both of these flagship models have newly available premium leather seats. As of yet, Mitsubishi has yet to announce the changes for the 2019 Outlander PHEV.

Prices and which one to buy

The Outlander has a diverse set of powertrains to match various models and options. Those who want the best features and the ability to tow up to 3,500 pounds should consider the V-6-powered Outlander GT, but its asking price competes with many top rivals. Otherwise, the 2018 PHEV offers a class-exclusive powertrain for just $35,590 (before anyfederal tax credit for electric vehicles). Still, we're not sure the plugin juice (pun intended) is worth the money. Instead, we'd play to the Outlander's strength of being an affordable three-row crossover with relevant options. That means the SE four-cylinder with Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) four-wheel drive.

Engine, transmission, performance and trailer

Likes:Fast-charging capability, V-6 towing capability, responsive PHEV acceleration, and regenerative braking.
Does not like:Four blasé cylinders, lifeless steering, spongy brake pedal.

With three powertrains including a class-exclusive PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) model, the Outlander has something for just about everyone, unless quick acceleration and engine refinement are important. four cylinder basethat we tried was not impressive, with lethargic performance and a listless CVT that lets the revs soar and the engine whine. The 224-hp V-6 and six-speed automatic are paired exclusively with Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) four-wheel drive, which is optional with the four-cylinder. The V-6 has considerable towing capacity andthe PHEV features a state-of-the-art hybrid systemthat uses Tier 3 fast charging. The base four-cylinder can tow 1,500 pounds, while the V-6 can tow 3,500.

We have driven Outlanders with all three transmissions and all have enjoyed a smooth and comfortable ride on the various surfaces of Southeast Michigan. However, overly soft suspensions contributed to excessive body movement that diminished composure in corners. While Mitsubishi's unique all-wheel-drive system is meant to improve cornering ability, all of our test vehicles used this setup and still felt less balanced than their rivals.Outlander GTIt had competitive cornering grip in our skid, but its lifeless steering felt like it was held in the hand of a helpless lover, cold and disconnected with an awkward twitch every once in a while. All three Outlanders we drove felt the same way, underscoring their normal driving dynamics.

Fuel Economy and Real World MPG

The Outlander range isn't the most fuel-efficient in this segment, but it does have the only plug-in hybrid (PHEV), which can run purely on electricity. Although the PHEV has a unique powertrain, its EPA estimates and real-world fuel economy are not impressive. This also applies to the four-cylinder and V-6 versions. The Outlander's 12.0 kWh electrified battery offers 22 miles of combined city and highway range, according to the EPA, but the gasoline engine provides backup when the battery runs low on power. In our real-world road test, the Outlander delivered an impressive 26 miles of electric-only range; electric vehicles generally do not perform well on this test due to the effects of aerodynamic drag and the lack of opportunities for regenerative braking. The V-6-powered Outlander GT got less than 4 mpg and had the lowest highway value seen among similar rivals.

Interior, infotainment and cargo

Likes:Standard third row, available 1500-watt power supply, large underfloor cargo bin.
Does not like:Very small third row for adults, common options are MIA, no dedicated cubbies for smartphones.

The Outlander has a satisfying if unspectacular interior, but it features a standard third row, which is unusual for this class. Unfortunately, the plug-in version only has two lines. While the cabin is quiet and well-built, its aging design and narrow options put it behind most rivals.

Don't be fooled by the Outlander's standard touchscreen and optional Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Mitsubishi's infotainment system is the complete opposite of attractive or intuitive. It also gives up several features available from most competitors. While the Outlander has up to two USB ports and three 12-volt outlets, most rivals have more power outlets. However, the GT plug-in hybrid has a unique 1500-watt AC power supply with two outlets that can power an LED TV or other power-hungry devices.

In addition toVolkswagen Tiguan, the Outlander is the only compact crossover with an available third row. While this limits its capacity with all seats up, with the second and third rows folded down, the Mitsubishi carried more carry-on luggage in our test than any rival. Our tests also showed that the Outlander has a competitive interior. However, several rivals have superior center console functionality and adjustable load floor heights.

Safety and driver assistance features

Outlander is available with a variety of high-tech assists including automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. She also achieved excellent results in the crash tests of the testing agencies. Unfortunately, all driver-assist technology costs extra, and scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) do not apply to all drivers. Models. Key security features include:

• Available forward collision warning and automated emergency braking
• Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
• Available lane departure warning and lane keeping assist

Warranty and maintenance coverage

A Mitsubishi brandIt has one of the best protection plans in its class, with exceptional powertrain coverage and above-average warranty periods.

• Limited warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
• Hybrid components are covered for 10 years or 100,000 miles.
• No free scheduled maintenance