2022 Mitsubishi Outlander

Mitsubishi sells a small range of budget-friendly SUVs that have been steadily improving in the brand’s road-test scores. In the past, Mitsubishi was known for its partnership with Chrysler and its eclectic lineup. Discontinued models include the budget-friendly Mirage, sports cars like the 3000 GT, Eclipse, and Lancer Evolution, mid-priced sedans, and dedicated off-road SUVs. After struggling during the 2000s and 2010s, Mitsubishi is now part of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance and has benefited from access to the other alliance members’ designs and technology. The Mitsubishi Outlander, for example, is based on the Nissan Rogue. Because Mitsubishi’s lineup is a mix of newer and older designs, some older models lag behind in crash test ratings while newer ones get top scores.

The seven-passenger Outlander is fully redesigned for 2022. It shares its 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine and much of its underpinnings with the Nissan Rogue, although a small third-row seat is exclusive to the Mitsubishi. Acceleration is leisurely but the continuously variable transmission is responsive, and the Outlander managed 25 mpg overall. Handling is quite nimble and secure but the steering is overly light and nervous. The ride is stiff and wind noise is noticeable. The first two rows of seats are comfortable, but the third row is tiny. Most controls are easy to use, including the infotainment system. The joystick-like electronic gear selector, though, suffers from unintuitive labeling. Standard active safety features include FCW, AEB with pedestrian detection, BSW, RCTW, and LDW. The plug-in hybrid, which has been on the previous generation's platform, has also been redesigned.