The Mitsubishi Outlander, a compact crossover SUV, has been a staple on the roads since its introduction in 2003. With each generation, Mitsubishi has strived to improve its offerings, but some years have proven to be more reliable and desirable than others. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the best and worst years for the Mitsubishi Outlander, empowering potential buyers to make informed decisions.
Mitsubishi Outlander: Model Year Deep Dive
| Model Year | Notable Positives | Notable Negatives |
|---|---|---|
| 2003-2006 (First Generation) | Affordable, decent fuel economy for its time, available all-wheel drive. | Reliability issues, particularly with transmissions and electrical systems, dated interior. |
| 2007-2013 (Second Generation) | Available third-row seating (unique for its class), improved safety features, relatively fuel-efficient 4-cylinder options. | CVT transmission issues (especially early models), some reports of engine problems, unrefined interior. |
| 2014-2020 (Third Generation - Pre-Facelift) | Improved fuel economy, more comfortable ride, redesigned interior (post-2016 facelift). | Underpowered engine options, CVT transmission drone, lackluster handling. |
| 2016 (Third Generation - Facelift) | Improved interior quality, reduced road noise, enhanced safety features. | CVT transmission performance still not ideal, engine options remain underpowered. |
| 2017-2019 (Third Generation - Facelift) | Apple CarPlay/Android Auto availability, further refinement in ride quality. | CVT transmission quirks persist, limited cargo space with the third row up. |
| 2020 (Third Generation - Final Year) | Improved safety technology, solid value proposition as a used car. | Dated design compared to newer competitors, CVT transmission remains a point of contention. |
| 2022-Present (Fourth Generation) | Completely redesigned with a modern interior and exterior, Nissan-sourced platform offers improved ride and handling, available plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option. | Higher price point compared to previous generations, some initial reports of infotainment system glitches, long-term reliability still unproven. |
| 2023-Present (Fourth Generation) | Continued improvements in refinement, enhanced safety features, updated infotainment system. | Potential for software updates needed for optimal performance, higher price point. |
| Outlander PHEV (All Years) | Excellent fuel economy in electric mode, available federal and state tax credits, all-wheel drive standard. | Limited all-electric range (varies by model year), higher upfront cost. |
Detailed Explanations
2003-2006 (First Generation): The first generation Outlander was a pioneer in the compact crossover segment. While affordable and offering decent fuel economy, its reliability was a major concern. Transmissions were prone to issues, and electrical problems were common. The interior also felt dated compared to its rivals.
2007-2013 (Second Generation): This generation introduced a unique selling point: available third-row seating, making it a practical choice for small families. Safety features were also improved. However, the CVT transmission experienced problems, particularly in earlier models, and some owners reported engine issues. The interior lacked refinement.
2014-2020 (Third Generation - Pre-Facelift): The third generation focused on improving fuel economy and ride comfort. However, the engine options were generally underpowered, and the CVT transmission continued to produce a noticeable drone. The interior was considered basic.
2016 (Third Generation - Facelift): The 2016 facelift brought significant improvements to the interior quality, reduced road noise, and added enhanced safety features. This made it a more competitive option. However, the CVT transmission performance still wasn't ideal, and the engine options remained underpowered.
2017-2019 (Third Generation - Facelift): These model years saw the introduction of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, adding much-needed connectivity. Further refinements in ride quality were also implemented. The main drawback remained the CVT transmission quirks and limited cargo space with the third row in use.
2020 (Third Generation - Final Year): As the final year of the third generation, the 2020 Outlander offered improved safety technology and represented a solid value proposition as a used car. However, its dated design and the persistent CVT transmission issues were still present.
2022-Present (Fourth Generation): This generation represents a complete redesign, boasting a modern interior and exterior. Utilizing a Nissan-sourced platform, the ride and handling are significantly improved. The availability of a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option is a major draw. However, the price point is higher, and some early reports of infotainment system glitches have surfaced. Long-term reliability remains to be seen.
2023-Present (Fourth Generation): These models continue to refine the fourth-generation Outlander, with enhancements to safety features and the infotainment system. The higher price point remains a factor, and potential buyers should be aware that software updates might be needed for optimal performance.
Outlander PHEV (All Years): The PHEV offers excellent fuel economy in electric mode and is eligible for federal and state tax credits. Standard all-wheel drive enhances its appeal. The limited all-electric range and higher upfront cost are the main considerations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Mitsubishi Outlander year is the most reliable? The 2016-2019 facelifted third-generation models are generally considered more reliable than earlier years due to improvements in build quality and features. The 2022+ fourth-generation models show promise, but long-term reliability data is still emerging.
What are the common problems with Mitsubishi Outlander? Common issues include CVT transmission problems, particularly in older models, electrical issues, and underpowered engines in some generations. The PHEV models can sometimes experience battery-related issues.
Is the Mitsubishi Outlander a good car to buy used? Yes, but it is crucial to research the specific model year and trim level, paying close attention to known issues and maintenance history. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.
Is the Mitsubishi Outlander good in snow? Outlanders equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD) perform well in snow, providing enhanced traction and stability. The Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, available on some models, further improves handling in slippery conditions.
What is the gas mileage like on a Mitsubishi Outlander? Gas mileage varies depending on the engine and model year, but generally, the Outlander offers decent fuel economy. The PHEV model provides the best fuel efficiency due to its electric capabilities.
Does the Mitsubishi Outlander have a third row? Yes, some model years of the Mitsubishi Outlander (specifically the second and third generations) offer a third-row seat, making it one of the few compact SUVs with this feature. However, the third row is best suited for children or smaller adults.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Mitsubishi Outlander involves careful consideration of model year, features, and potential issues. While the 2016-2019 facelifted third-generation models offer a good balance of features and reliability, the redesigned fourth-generation models (2022+) present a compelling option with their modern design and improved performance. Thorough research and a pre-purchase inspection are essential for ensuring a satisfying ownership experience.