The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander offers a blend of solid crossover utility with hints of classic SUV aesthetics. This latest model marks Mitsubishi’s first entirely new SUV in over ten years. As a seven-seat crossover sharing its platform with the Nissan Rogue, the 2022 Outlander competes with popular models like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, VW Tiguan, and Subaru Forester. The new Outlander is a significant improvement over its predecessor, leveraging the Rogue platform while introducing its own unique characteristics, including strong value and safety ratings.
The 2022 model is a complete redesign. Available in ES, SE, SEL, and SEL Touring trims, the new Outlander features a design that pays homage to the rugged appearance of the old Montero SUV with defined creases and bold styling cues. The front end boasts a high-set grille, while the profile exhibits a muscular silhouette akin to that of a Crossfitter. At the rear, the narrow taillights contribute to the overall vintage-inspired look.
Under the hood, the Outlander is equipped with a new 2.5-liter inline-4 engine producing 181 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable transmission offering eight pre-programmed ratios. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional with six driver-selectable modes for different driving conditions. The suspension setup consists of front struts and an independent multi-link rear configuration.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Outlander falls slightly below average for its class, achieving an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city, 31 mpg on the highway, and 27 mpg combined for FWD models. AWD models yield slightly lower figures at 24/30/26 mpg. Safety features include standard automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, rear parking sensors, hill descent control, and trailer-sway control. Optional safety enhancements comprise adaptive cruise control, active lane control, and a surround-view monitor.
The 2022 Outlander offers increased width and interior space compared to its predecessor, providing approximately one inch more legroom in the front two rows. With a roomier interior, the new Outlander can accommodate up to seven passengers, though the front seats offer the most comfort. The cabin design features a user-friendly horizontal dashboard layout with a prominent touchscreen display and accents of piano-black or aluminum trim. The rear seats can be folded almost flat to expand the cargo area up to 79.7 cubic feet. However, with the third row in use, cargo space is limited to 11.7 cubic feet.
Starting at $26,990, the base ES trim includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a host of standard safety features. The SE trim, priced from $30,040, is expected to be a popular choice, adding a larger 9-inch touchscreen with navigation, wireless charging, wireless Apple CarPlay, rear USB ports, a surround-view camera system, heated front seats, adaptive cruise control, active lane control, and 20-inch alloy wheels.
For an extra $2,300, premium features such as a 12.3-inch driver display, Bose sound system, and a panoramic sunroof can be added. The top-tier SEL trim starts at $33,140, and with the Touring package, the price increases to $37,640 with AWD. The SEL model offers leather upholstery, a power passenger seat, heated rear seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, and a driver display, among other features. The Touring package further enhances the interior with semi-aniline leather upholstery, a 10.8-inch head-up display, panoramic sunroof, and a heated steering wheel.
Mitsubishi’s 2022 Outlander stands out in the competitive SUV segment with its distinctive styling, impressive powertrains, and advanced technology features. Positioned at a compelling price point, the Outlander excels in its class, making it a standout choice well worth considering.
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