No one can overlook the importance of the Mitsubishi Outlander. This model makes up the bulk of sales in many global markets including North America alongside the second-place Outlander Sport. That means this vehicle must deliver in every way because the brand’s future depends on it. Enter the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander, the first vehicle developed after the company allied with Renault and Nissan.
Looks that Divide
You’re not mistaking the Outlander for anything but a Mitsubishi. From the upright greenhouse to the nearly vertical rear end, it exudes a distinct presence. The new front fascia with the company’s new “dynamic shield” corporate face, also stands out thanks to how imposing it is. Together with the tiered headlights, the SUV possesses a distinctly rugged yet refined character. If you’d like something with less chrome, Mitsubishi recently added a new Black Edition package for the SE trim that adds the following: black front and rear bumper trim, black 20-inch wheels, black side mirror covers, and a black headliner.
2022 Mitsubishi Outlander: Not Just a Different Shell
Underpinned by the same CMF-C/D architecture as the Nissan Rogue, you’d be forgiven to think that the Outlander is the same vehicle. Luckily, it’s not. The way it drives sets it apart, softer and more comfortable even with 20-inch alloy wheels shod in 255/55R20 tires. This provides good levels of compliance, especially with tires that have generous sidewalls. Due to it weighing up to 3,803 pounds and its additional length, the Outlander drives big. Thankfully, good body control, accurate steering, and respectable amounts of grip keep it from getting unwieldy on winding roads or during emergency maneuvers.
Under the hood, you’ll find a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 181 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque. Power goes down to the front or all four wheels via a nicely-tuned CVT automatic. As a result, the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander avoids feeling underpowered because the transmission does a fantastic job putting the available power to good use. However, the engine gets a little noisy when you wind it out.
Mitsubishi’s AWD system, called S-AWC, distributes power effectively. In addition to maximizing traction, it does a great job ensuring the tires with the most grip get power. As a result, the system also improves Outlander’s handling and gives you extra stability during evasive maneuvers.
A Shocking Upgrade
One of the 2022 Outlander’s stand-out features is its refinement. Excellent levels of sound insulation keep the cabin hushed at highway speeds, creating a serene environment. Top-notch build quality adds a sense of sophistication that elevates the entire experience. Controls that operate with a nice level of tactility and precision only add to the richness. Go for the SEL grade with the Touring package, which adds two-tone quilted semi-aniline leather upholstery, for maximum poshness.
Although the Outlander has seven seats as standard, think of it more as a 5+2. The third row barely fits children in a pinch, leaving them best folded for additional cargo space since it’s nonexistent with all three rows up. For a family of four with plenty of gear, this SUV provides more than enough room thanks to its generous interior volume. You also get a nicely-sized bin on the center console for smartphones and other small items.
Slick Tech Features
A closer look at Mitsubishi’s new infotainment system and you’ll notice that it’s the same one as Nissan’s. That’s not a bad thing because this latest iteration features quick responses and clear graphics from the 8.0- or 9.0-inch main touchscreen. An available 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster shows you critical information in a logical and uncluttered manner. The optional 10-speaker Bose audio system, on the other hand, offers crisp sound and good cabin coverage despite not having surround sound capability.
Mitsubishi gives you a generous list of standard driver assistance features on the 2022 Outlander. The only one that requires you to move up to a higher trim is Mi-Pilot Assist, which is only available on the SE grade and up. Since it’s similar to Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite, the components in the Outlander work in a subtle way, correcting you gently when you drift out of your lane. The Mi-Pilot Assist system does a fantastic job following traffic flow, navigating turns at highway speeds, and keeping you centered. It also proactively reacts to traffic flow, slowing you down when someone cuts you off or maintaining your set distance.
2022 Mitsubishi Outlander: Just the Beginning
The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander proves that the company still has some life left. Thanks to its alliance with Renault and Nissan, it now has the components to innovate again and this variant is just the beginning. in late 2022, the Outlander PHEV returns for the 2023 model year armed with more powerful electric motors and a large 20-kWh battery pack for additional powertrain flexibility.
Starting at $27,790, this rig brings a lot of value to the table, especially with its long warranty. Our AWD-equipped SE test car with several packages and an optional tonneau cover cost $34,495, which is a fantastic deal. Even a fully-loaded SEL model with the Touring package and AWD manages to stay under $40,000
The best way to describe the new Outlander is that it experienced a glow-up. From a well-appointed interior to refined road manners, it’s now a segment leader with genuine appeal. You don’t get this SUV only for the price or the warranty, it’s a legitimately great machine.