The Mitsubishi Outlander went from basic to luxuryand costs less than you'd think

The Mitsubishi Outlander first arrived in the United States in 2003, originally serving as a compact replacement for the more rugged Montero Sport.In its early years, it was a no-frills choice for families who prioritized utility.Over four generations, the Outlander transitioned from a simple family hauler into a pioneer of green technology with the 2013 launch of the Outlander PHEV, the world's first mass-produced plug-in hybrid SUV (it debuted in Japan first, followed by a European release later in 2013).

More recently, the Outlander underwent a complete redesign in 2022 for its fourth generation, an overhaul that ushered in new exterior styling, a robust Super-All Wheel Control system with updated drive modes, and more premium materials inside, including semi-aniline leather.Now, following a mid-cycle refresh that added more sound-deadening materials for a quieter cabin, the Outlander has taken another step toward what some might consider a premium classification.Like Mitsubishi Outlander SUV 2026 Base: $29,995 Base Trim Engine 1.5L I4 Hybrid Base Trim Transmission 2-speed CVT Base Trim Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive Powered by Expand Collapse 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander at a glance Small but impactful updates The 2026 Outlander has an updated exterior look, thanks to a redesigned hood, a new front grille, and revised front and rear bumpers.

According to Mitsubishi, the exterior updates are intended to reduce wind noise while enhancing the SUV’s overall appearance.New smoke-finish taillights and restyled 18-inch and 20-inch wheels round out the exterior changes.Mitsubishi has also revised a few small but meaningful aspects of the interior, including an armrest with more storage underneath, updated cupholder designs, and a wireless charging pad.

Ventilated seats are available depending on the trim level, while a 12.3-inch display with navigation and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard across the range.Quiz 8 Questions · Test Your KnowledgeMitsubishi OutlanderRead on and test your knowledgeThink you know Mitsubishi's popular SUV? Put your Outlander knowledge to the test.HistoryPerformanceFeaturesDesignVariantsBegin 01 / 8HistoryIn what year did the Mitsubishi Outlander first go on sale?A1998B2001C2003D2005Correct! The Mitsubishi Outlander was introduced for the 2003 model year, initially sold in Japan as the Airtrek before being renamed Outlander for global markets.It replaced the aging Mitsubishi RVR in the lineup.Not quite.

The Outlander first went on sale as a 2003 model year vehicle.It was originally known as the Airtrek in Japan before receiving the Outlander name for international markets.Continue 02 / 8VariantsWhat does the 'PHEV' stand for in the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV?APartial Hybrid Electric VehicleBPlug-in Hybrid Electric VehicleCPower Hybrid Engine VehicleDPerformance Hybrid Electric VersionCorrect! PHEV stands for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle.The Outlander PHEV was launched in 2013 and became one of the world's best-selling plug-in hybrid SUVs, praised for its ability to run on electric power alone for short distances.Not quite.

PHEV stands for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle.Launched in 2013, the Outlander PHEV was a groundbreaking model that allowed drivers to charge the battery from a wall outlet and travel short distances on electric power alone.Continue 03 / 8PerformanceWhich all-wheel-drive system does Mitsubishi use in the Outlander PHEV to distribute torque between front and rear axles?ASuper All Wheel Control (S-AWC)BDynamic All Wheel Drive (D-AWD)CActive Torque Control (ATC)DIntelligent All Wheel Drive (i-AWD)Correct! Mitsubishi's Super All Wheel Control, or S-AWC, is an advanced integrated vehicle dynamics control system used in the Outlander PHEV.It uses separate front and rear electric motors combined with braking control to optimize traction and handling.Not quite.

The correct answer is Super All Wheel Control, or S-AWC.This sophisticated system is a hallmark of Mitsubishi's performance engineering, using electric motors on each axle along with braking input to deliver precise torque distribution.Continue 04 / 8DesignWhat is the name of Mitsubishi's signature front grille design language introduced on newer Outlander models?ABold StatementBDynamic ShieldCInfinity GrilleDPower FaceCorrect! The Dynamic Shield is Mitsubishi's distinctive front-end design philosophy, first introduced on the 2014 Outlander Sport.It features a bold, protective-looking front fascia meant to convey strength and stability, and has since become a brand-wide design signature.Not quite.

The answer is Dynamic Shield.Mitsubishi introduced this front-end design language starting with the 2014 Outlander Sport, and it has since been applied across the model range to give Mitsubishi vehicles a bold, unified family look.Continue 05 / 8FeaturesWhich advanced driver assistance feature was offered on the Outlander as part of its MI-PILOT system?AFully autonomous highway drivingBAdaptive cruise control with lane centeringCAutomatic lane changingDTraffic sign recognition with automatic brakingCorrect! MI-PILOT on the Mitsubishi Outlander combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering assist, helping reduce driver fatigue on highways.It uses a front camera and radar to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead while keeping the car centered in its lane.Not quite.

MI-PILOT provides adaptive cruise control combined with lane centering assist — not full autonomy or automatic lane changing.It is designed as a driver assistance tool to ease fatigue on long highway trips, not to replace the driver.Continue 06 / 8HistoryThe fourth-generation Mitsubishi Outlander, launched in 2021, shares its platform with which other automaker's SUV?AToyota RAV4BNissan RogueCRenault KoleosDHonda CR-VCorrect! The fourth-generation Outlander, revealed in 2021, is built on the same CMF-CD platform as the Nissan Rogue.This is a result of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance partnership, which allows member brands to share platforms and technology to reduce development costs.Not quite.

The 2021 fourth-generation Outlander shares its platform with the Nissan Rogue, thanks to the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance.Platform sharing is a key strategy of the alliance, helping all three brands save on engineering and manufacturing expenses.Continue 07 / 8VariantsWhat is the maximum seating capacity available in certain Mitsubishi Outlander configurations?A5B6C7D8Correct! Certain Outlander trims offer optional third-row seating, bringing the total passenger capacity to seven.This made the Outlander one of the more versatile options in the compact SUV segment, bridging the gap between compact crossovers and larger three-row SUVs.Not quite.

The Mitsubishi Outlander can seat up to seven passengers in models equipped with the optional third-row seat.This was a notable selling point for families who needed extra space without stepping up to a full-size SUV.Continue 08 / 8PerformanceWhat is the approximate all-electric range of the third-generation Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV on a full charge?A15 miles (24 km)B22 miles (35 km)C35 miles (56 km)D50 miles (80 km)Correct! The third-generation Outlander PHEV offers approximately 22 miles (35 km) of all-electric range on a full charge.While this may seem modest compared to fully electric vehicles, it is enough for many daily commutes, and the petrol engine kicks in seamlessly for longer trips.Not quite.

The third-generation Outlander PHEV delivers around 22 miles (35 km) of pure electric range.Although it is not a long-range EV, Mitsubishi designed it to cover typical daily commutes on electricity alone, with the combustion engine available for extended journeys.See My Score Challenge CompleteYour Score/ 8Thanks for playing!Try Again The 2026 Outlander’s powertrain consists of a 1.5-liter turbo engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, good for 174 horsepower and 206 lb-ft.of torque.

Mitsubishi’s Super-All Wheel Control system (i.e., all-wheel drive) is available for every trim level.Otherwise, the 2026 Outlander is standard with front-wheel drive.If you live in an area where you don’t see snowfall, a front-wheel drive Outlander will likely suffice.

In addition to saving money off the initial MSRP, the fuel cost of a front-wheel drive model versus an all-wheel drive model is something to consider.Although the EPA-estimated ratings in the city are the same for both, the highway fuel savings, although small, will eventually add up over time.EPA Fuel Economy by Model City Hwy Combined 2026 Outlander FWD 26 31 28 2026 Outlander AWD 26 30 27 Trim levels and standard equipment Bespoke Outlanders also available Whether you are looking for a basic family commuter or a more premium experience, the 2026 Outlander offers a handful of updated trim levels and configurations.

The MSRP figures below include the destination and delivery charges.Outlander ES Starting MSRP: $31,740 (FWD) / $33,540 (AWD) The entry-level Outlander is well-quipped despite its modest MSRP.Convenience: Dual-zone climate control and power lumbar support for the driver.

Technology: Includes a 12.3-inch display with navigation and an eight-speaker Yamaha audio system.Safety Features: blind-spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, and rear automatic emergency braking.Related 3 insider tricks to get VIP treatment at any car dealership Red carpet treatment, even if you buy something used.

Posts By  Carl Anthony Outlander LE Starting MSRP: $34,090 (FWD) / $35,890 (AWD) The LE trim level is new for the 2026 Outlander lineup, offering a slight step up from the ES.The LE is a good option for Outlander buyers who want something a little more than the base model, without the higher MSRP associated with the upper trim levels.Convenience: Rain-sensing wipers and wireless smartphone charging.

Style Points: 20-inch black alloy wheels, a black headliner, and silver bumper accents.New Features: Multi-view camera system, adaptive cruise control, and synthetic leather seating.Outlander SE Starting MSRP: $36,090 (FWD) / $37,890 (AWD) A key feature of the SE trim level is the inclusion of Mitsubishi MI-PILOT Assist as standard equipment.

As described by the automaker, MI-PILOT Assist is designed to reduce the stress of long commutes and stop-and-go traffic.The system combines adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, lane keep assist, and lane departure prevention.With Mitsubishi’s Navi-link integration and traffic sign recognition, the system can also adjust to road conditions and speed limits.

Other key features of the SE include: Convenience: Power liftgate with adjustable height and front parking sensors.Optional SE Tech Package: 12-speaker Yamaha Ultimate system and panoramic sunroof.Like the LE, the SE can be a good pick for buyers who want a few extra features but want to keep the starting MSRP as low as possible.

Outlander SEL Starting MSRP: $40,790 (FWD) / $42,590 (AWD) Subscribe to our newsletter for 2026 Outlander insights Get deeper vehicle coverage by subscribing to our newsletter: concise trim comparisons, fuel-economy breakdowns, equipment and warranty rundowns, and clear context on models like the 2026 Outlander to inform your next car choice.Get Updates By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.You can unsubscribe anytime.

The SEL is the luxury-focused flagship of the 2026 Outlander range.Comfort Plus: Leather seats, ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats.The tri-zone automatic climate control system is also standard.

SEL Premium Package: Adds brown semi-aniline leather and the 12-speaker Yamaha Ultimate audio system.Beyond the standard trim levels, specialized versions of the 2026 Outlander are available for specific tastes.Trail Edition: More rugged look with 18-inch black basket-weave wheels, mudflaps, and protective trim on the fenders and bumpers.

Starting MSRP is $41,390.RALLIART: Celebrates Mitsubishi’s racing history with unique graphics, a rear spoiler, RALLIART mudflaps, and a branded push-button start.Starting MSRP is $41,390.

Black Edition: Expands on the SEL Premium Package with black semi-aniline leather seats and blacked-out exterior accents.Starting MSRP is $44,790.Amazon Basics Trunk Organizer Material Oxford Special Feature Foldable This 13.5-gallon trunk organizer features compartments to organize and store groceries, sports equipment, emergency supplies, and other daily essentials.

$15.99 at Amazon Expand Collapse Standard warranty coverage The 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander, including a PHEV counterpart, are expected to arrive at U.S.dealerships in the coming months.Every Outlander comes with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.

Mitsubishi also offers a two-year/30,000-mile maintenance program, a five-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance program, and a seven-year/100,000-mile anti-corrosion warranty.

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