2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Review: Can This SUV Win Back the Spotlight?

Imagine this: You’re standing in front of a sleek, modern SUV with sharp lines, bold LED headlights, and an unmistakable presence. It’s the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander—a vehicle that has undergone one of the most dramatic transformations in recent automotive history. For years, the Outlander was often overlooked in a crowded field of compact SUVs dominated by heavyweights like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5. But Mitsubishi wasn’t content to let its flagship SUV fade into obscurity. Instead, they completely redesigned it from the ground up, giving it a striking new design, cutting-edge technology, and impressive versatility. So, does the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander live up to the hype? Is it finally ready to compete with the best in its class? In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore every aspect of the Outlander—its performance, interior, tech features, and value proposition—to determine whether it’s worth your consideration.

A Fresh Start: The All-New 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander marks a turning point for the brand. Gone are the days of bland styling and outdated interiors; this is a thoroughly modern SUV designed to capture attention and win over skeptics. Built on a new platform shared with the Nissan Rogue (thanks to Mitsubishi’s partnership within the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance), the Outlander boasts improved handling, better build quality, and a host of premium upgrades.

But what truly sets the 2022 Outlander apart is its bold exterior design. Inspired by Mitsubishi’s “Bold Stride” philosophy, the SUV features a chiseled front grille, muscular fenders, and floating rooflines that give it a rugged yet sophisticated appearance. Available in both two-tone paint options and single-tone finishes, the Outlander looks more expensive than it actually is—a testament to Mitsubishi’s effort to elevate its image.

Interior Comfort: Roomy, Refined, and Ready for Adventure

Step inside the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander, and you’ll immediately notice how far it has come compared to its predecessors. The cabin is spacious, well-crafted, and packed with thoughtful details that make daily driving enjoyable.

Seating for Seven

One of the standout features of the Outlander is its available three-row seating configuration, which accommodates up to seven passengers—a rarity in the compact SUV segment. While the third row is best suited for kids or short trips, it adds significant versatility for growing families or those who frequently carpool. Even in the second row, legroom and headroom are generous, ensuring comfort for adults during long journeys.

Premium Materials and Attention to Detail

Mitsubishi didn’t skimp on materials when designing the Outlander’s interior. Soft-touch surfaces, contrast stitching, and available leather upholstery create an upscale atmosphere that rivals pricier competitors. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with controls placed within easy reach of the driver. Ambient lighting and panoramic sunroofs (available on higher trims) add a touch of luxury, making the cabin feel airy and inviting.

Cargo Space

With all seats folded down, the Outlander offers up to 78.9 cubic feet of cargo space—more than enough for luggage, groceries, or weekend gear. Even with the third row upright, there’s still ample room behind for smaller items, thanks to clever storage solutions throughout the cabin.

Performance: Capable and Confident on Any Road

Under the hood, the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. While these numbers may not blow you away, the engine delivers smooth and predictable power, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that prioritizes efficiency over outright performance.

Handling and Ride Quality

Thanks to its new platform, the Outlander feels more planted and composed than ever before. Steering is precise, and body roll is minimal, even during spirited cornering. The suspension strikes a good balance between comfort and sportiness, soaking up bumps without feeling floaty or disconnected.

All-Wheel Drive Options

For drivers who need extra traction in inclement weather or off-road conditions, Mitsubishi offers its Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system as an option. Unlike basic AWD setups, S-AWC uses advanced torque vectoring and braking interventions to improve stability and grip. Whether you’re navigating snow-covered roads or tackling light trails, the Outlander proves surprisingly capable.

Fuel economy is another strong suit. With front-wheel drive, the Outlander achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway—competitive figures for the class. Opting for all-wheel drive slightly reduces those numbers but remains respectable at 24/29 mpg.

Technology: Cutting-Edge Features for Modern Drivers

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander doesn’t just look and feel premium—it’s also equipped with some of the latest automotive technologies to keep you connected, entertained, and safe.

Infotainment System

At the heart of the dashboard sits a standard 8-inch touchscreen display (or an optional 9-inch unit on higher trims). The interface is user-friendly, with crisp graphics and responsive controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, allowing seamless smartphone integration for navigation, music streaming, and hands-free calling.

Higher trims add wireless charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a premium Bose audio system with 10 speakers. These features ensure the Outlander can hold its own against rivals like the Honda CR-V and Hyundai Tucson in terms of tech offerings.

Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is a top priority for Mitsubishi, and the Outlander comes loaded with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) as part of its MI-PILOT Assist suite. Standard features include:

• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane-Centering Assist
• Blind-Spot Monitoring
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Automatic Emergency Braking

These systems work together seamlessly to reduce stress during commutes and enhance overall peace of mind. The Outlander earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), further solidifying its credentials as a family-friendly SUV.

Value Proposition: Affordable Luxury

Starting at around $26,000, the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander undercuts many of its competitors while offering similar—if not better—features. Higher trims like the SEL and Touring models provide plenty of luxury amenities without breaking the bank, making them excellent alternatives to pricier options like the Ford Escape Titanium or Subaru Forester Limited.

Moreover, Mitsubishi backs the Outlander with one of the best warranties in the industry: a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. This level of coverage provides added confidence for buyers concerned about long-term reliability.

Who Should Buy the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander?

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander appeals to a wide range of buyers, including:

• Families : With its three-row seating and spacious interior, it’s perfect for parents needing flexibility.
• Tech Enthusiasts : Advanced infotainment and driver-assistance features cater to those who love staying connected.
• Budget-Conscious Shoppers : Competitive pricing and a stellar warranty make it a smart choice for first-time SUV buyers.
• Outdoor Adventurers : Available all-wheel drive and robust capabilities ensure readiness for weekend getaways.

Has Mitsubishi Finally Hit Its Stride?

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander represents a monumental leap forward for the brand. With its bold design, refined interior, capable performance, and affordable price tag, it’s clear that Mitsubishi has listened to critics and delivered a product worthy of attention. While it may not unseat segment leaders like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4 overnight, the Outlander proves that Mitsubishi is back in the game—and ready to compete.

If you’re shopping for a compact SUV that combines style, practicality, and value, the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander deserves serious consideration. After all, sometimes the biggest surprises come from unexpected places.