2025 Mitsubishi Outlander: An Evolutionary (And Necessary) Mid-Cycle Refresh

Los Angeles, CA —The three-diamond car manufacturer caused quite a stir in 2021 when it revealed the fourth generation of its popular compact SUV, the Outlander.

The design, inspired by the Engelberg Tourer concept presented in 2019, was unconventional, with a front end featuring close-to-the-ground headlamps and predominant chrome accents called the Dynamic Shield. Even the wide C-pillar on either side of the tailgate was unusual for Mitsubishi.

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Polarizing as it is, the Outlander is still here in the country's most popular segment, which is compact SUVs. And for the 2025 model year, it gets a mid-cycle makeover, which includes improvements on several levels, but nothing too obvious to the naked eye.

It's All In the Details

In the front, the Outlander remains relatively untouched, but all models now come with standard LED lighting all around. While the front end remains unchanged, the hood and front fenders are now made out of steel, as opposed to aluminum for the hood and polypropylene for the front fenders in the previous version. Mitsubishi says it gets better control of assembly quality this way, but the soundproofing is improved as well. What's more, the hood no longer opends from the middle of the front grille, but rather from above that black plastic panel with three-diamond badge.

The Outlander's profile is unchanged, but new 18-inch wheels now come standard on ES, SE and LE trims. Every other model is fitted with new 20-inch wheels. The rear end remains largely unchanged, apart from the taillamps, now covered by a smoked translucent shell over the red signature “T”. Mitsubishi also introduces a new color, Moonstone Gray Metallic, bringing the choice of colors to eight for 2025.

Those familiar with the outgoing model won't be too disoriented inside, since the dashboard remains faithful to the one unveiled in 2021. Instead, it's the center console that has undergone significant changes. The two cupholders are now to the right of the gearshift lever, a move that not only improves storage volume under the central armrest but also makes it more ergonomic in our opinion.

In the dashboard, a 12.3-inch information screen behind the steering wheel is now available, while the central touchscreen, of the same width, is now standard. The latter replaces the eight- and nine-inch screens of the previous model. The head-up display is still on the menu but can only be ordered on premium models. And that's not all, as the graphics on the central screen have all been revised and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wireless functions are included. Then there's the frameless digital center mirror, which makes life easier when rear visibility is obstructed by all the gear in the trunk. The only snag with this digital rearview mirror is that it's limited to the GT-Premium variant, the most expensive in the line-up.

New for 2025 are two new themes for the cabin upholstery: brown brick-colored leather for the most upscale model, and pale gray faux leather mixed with anthracite-colored faux suede available in the LE livery. While both front seats are heated from the entry-level model (ES), you must climb to the SEL level to offer this heated luxury to second-row passengers. Mitsubishi also adds ventilation for the first-row seats on this same SEL trim.

True to previous generations, the third row, which folds into the floor (and is standard on all trims), is mainly there for occasional convenience. And even if you don't intend to find out, the Outlander is equipped with a new central airbag between the front-seat occupants, which reduces shocks between passengers in a side collision.

Finally, the Outlander becomes the first North American production vehicle to feature an audio system developed in collaboration with Yamaha. The eight-speaker Premium version is available on the ES, SE, LE and SEL models, while the twelve-speaker Ultimate level is available only to those who opt for the GT or GT Premium level.

We'll have to wait for a more in-depth testdrive to truly appreciate this collaboration between Mitsubishi and Yamaha, but in the meantime, we can confirm that the two partners have found unique solutions to optimize the system's sound. In the doors, for example, additional welds have been added to better secure the speakers and limit vibrations, while soundproofing panels further isolate occupants from outside noise.

Behind the Wheel of a Quiet, Common SUV

It's hard to hear the soundproofing efforts that have gone into the Outlander, but from the very first kilometer, we noticed that it's very quiet in the city. Compared to its Nissan Rogue cousin based on the same platform, the Mitsubishi model has the advantage of being powered by a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine unlike the Rogue's turbocharged 3-cylinder, which is much rougher during accelerations.

Of course, a continuously variable transmission often means a noisier engine. We found this to be the case on a very winding road through the local canyons. When climbing, the Outlander quickly reaches its limits. On the highway or in town, however, the Outlander is quiet and comfortable, which was not the case before.

Engineers have also worked on the vehicle's steering, which is supposed to offer a little more weight. The comfortable steering wheel has certainly contributed to this confidence feeling, but the Outlander is not exactly a Lancer Evolution on that matter, but that's not the mission of this family-oriented SUV. The S-AWC all-wheel drive is very efficient, especially when you push harder in the curves. And like all good modern crossovers, the Outlander leaves the factory with a bunch of driving modes (Eco, Normal, Tarmac, Gravel, Mud and Snow).

Which One Should You Choose?

Like the Nissan Rogue line-up, the Mitsubishi Outlander is available in six different trims. Here's where the buyer's job gets tougher. The most affordable version (ES), priced at $35,598, boasts 18-inch wheels, heated front seats, a 12.3-inch touchscreen and room for seven passengers. The SE level, at $38,298, adds front and rear skid plates, a panoramic roof, electric tailgate, three-zone climate control, heated steering wheel and induction charging for smart devices.

With the LE ($43,298), 18-inch wheels adopt a machined finish, a power driver's seat, leatherette/faux suede upholstery, integrated navigation and the Mitsubishi Connect suite of applications for five years.

The Outlander SEL ($43,998) upgrades to 20-inch wheels, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats and much more. Finally, the GT trim level ($46,498) integrates a twelve-speaker audio system, head-up display, a series of driving aids, door sunshades and even the option of a contrasting-colored roof. The GT Premium grade ($47,498) inherits semi-aniline leather seats, brown interior accents and a digital rear-view mirror.

That being said, it really comes down to the needs in terms of equipment here. In our opinion, the first two models offer excellent value for money, but if you want a little more, the LE level is well equipped, but for $700 more, the SEL model is probably the best compromise within the range. And did we mention the 10-year warranty?