The automotive landscape continues to evolve, and Mitsubishi has responded with meaningful updates to their popular three-row SUV. The Outlander receives a refresh for 2025 with updated styling and several new features. A Yamaha audio system is a new addition to the standard-features list, and Mitsubishi also rearranged the center console for additional storage. This comprehensive review examines every aspect of the 2025 Outlander to help families determine if this SUV meets their needs.
What’s New for 2025
Mitsubishi hasn’t stood still with the Outlander, implementing several noteworthy improvements for the 2025 model year. There are also changes to the suspension meant to provide a smoother ride, plus additional sound-deadening material that aims to make it quieter inside. These updates address some of the key criticisms leveled at previous iterations.
The most noticeable enhancement involves the infotainment system. The Outlander comes standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen. It has standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and both smartphone-mirroring systems can connect wirelessly. This represents a significant upgrade from earlier versions and brings the Outlander in line with contemporary expectations.
Enhanced Audio Experience
One standout addition is the premium audio system. An eight-speaker Yamaha audio system is standard, and a 12-speaker Yamaha system is optional. This partnership with Yamaha brings legitimate audiophile-quality sound to the Outlander lineup, something that wasn’t previously available in this price segment.
Powertrain Performance and Capabilities
The engine situation remains unchanged, which presents both advantages and limitations. The Mitsubishi continues to rely on a 2.5-liter I-4 that only produces 181 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque. This, in a vehicle that weighs in at 3,919 pounds as tested. While this powertrain provides adequate motivation for daily driving, it falls short when compared to more powerful competitors.
Transmission and Efficiency
While the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) keeps the Outlander’s weak engine in its most efficient torque band, there just isn’t enough of that twist to properly motivate this substantial SUV. The CVT does help optimize fuel economy, though performance enthusiasts may find the driving experience somewhat uninspiring.
All-wheel drive remains an attractive option across the lineup. All-wheel drive is an $1800 option on all trims except for the top Platinum Edition, which comes standard with AWD. This system provides enhanced traction and confidence in adverse weather conditions, making it a worthwhile consideration for many buyers.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Outlander’s interior represents one of its strongest selling points. This SUV is spacious and comfortable with nice details in the cabin that make it feel premium. The front seats are great for longer journeys with ample support and good adjustability. Materials quality has improved significantly over previous generations, creating an environment that feels more upscale than the price point might suggest.
Second and Third Row Accommodations
Second-row passengers are also in good shape with decent legroom and headroom, in addition to optional heated seats. This makes the Outlander suitable for families with teenagers or adult passengers who need reasonable comfort during longer trips.
The third row, however, presents some limitations. The only other compact crossover with seating for seven is the outgoing 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan; the 2025 Tiguan will be two-row only. While the Outlander offers this unique feature in its class, This way-back bench won’t work for adults, but having the option to put an extra kid or two back there on occasion is a nice feature.
Cargo Capacity Analysis
Storage versatility proves impressive when properly utilized. In our testing, the Outlander’s cargo area fit 2 carry-on suitcases with the third row raised, 10 carry-ons with the third row folded, and 22 carry-ons with the second and third rows folded. This flexibility makes the Outlander practical for various hauling scenarios, from daily errands to family vacations.
Technology and Infotainment Features
Technology integration has received significant attention in the 2025 refresh. The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander starts at $29,645 for the base ES trim, which comes with niceties like wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 12.3-inch touchscreen as standard equipment across the lineup.
The infotainment system offers practical functionality without overwhelming complexity. Along with charging ports at the bottom of the center stack, the system features a few hard buttons and a physical knob for volume adjustment. This thoughtful design maintains usability while driving, something that purely touch-based systems often struggle to achieve.
Connectivity and Convenience
Modern convenience features abound throughout the lineup. Additional available infotainment features include wireless device charging and access to the subscription-based Mitsubishi Connect app that provides remote services. These features help keep the Outlander competitive with newer rivals that emphasize connected car technology.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety remains a priority across the Outlander lineup. Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking · Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert come with every trim level, providing essential protection features that many competitors charge extra for.
At the time of writing, the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander has not been fully crash-tested, but it does come standard with safety features like forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. Previous generation testing suggests strong safety performance, though updated results will provide definitive confirmation.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The Outlander’s pricing structure offers competitive entry points while maintaining reasonable upgrade costs. The price of the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander starts at $32,005 and goes up to $46,455 depending on the trim and options. This range positions the Outlander favorably against similarly equipped competitors.
Trim Level Recommendations
The mid-level SE model with the tech package is the best value. It includes desirable equipment such as the more powerful 12-speaker Yamaha audio system, a panoramic sunroof, and a digital gauge cluster. This configuration balances features with cost-effectiveness, making it an ideal choice for most buyers.
Competitive Analysis
The compact SUV segment presents numerous alternatives, each with distinct advantages. The Hyundai Tucson offers more cargo space, great driving dynamics and better interior tech while costing just a bit less at each trim level. However, the Tucson lacks the third-row seating that distinguishes the Outlander.
For a more functional third row, options like the Mazda CX-90 and Honda Pilot offer more space than the Mitsubishi. These alternatives command higher prices but provide more substantial people-moving capabilities for larger families.
Reliability and Ownership Experience
Long-term ownership considerations favor the Outlander significantly. Mitsubishi provides one of the better limited and powertrain warranties versus other compact crossovers and SUVs. Although the company doesn’t offer complimentary maintenance, its primary protection plans are just as long as those from Kia and Hyundai. Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles · Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander has a predicted reliability score of 82 out of 100. This rating indicates above-average reliability expectations, providing peace of mind for families planning to keep their SUV for many years.
Final Words
The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander presents a compelling package for families prioritizing space, value, and warranty coverage over outright performance. It’s unfortunate the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL looks as good as it does inside and out and comes in below $50,000 for a three-row SUV. The improvements for 2025 address many previous concerns while maintaining the fundamental strengths that have made this SUV successful.
While the powertrain remains the primary limitation, families focused on practical transportation rather than spirited driving will find much to appreciate. The combination of standard features, competitive pricing, and excellent warranty coverage creates a value proposition that’s difficult to ignore in today’s market.
FAQ Section:
Q: What’s the fuel economy of the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander? A: The 2025 Outlander achieves EPA-estimated 24 city/31 highway/27 combined MPG for front-wheel drive models, and 24 city/30 highway/26 combined MPG with all-wheel drive.
Q: Does the 2025 Outlander have a third row? A: Yes, the 2025 Outlander includes standard third-row seating for up to seven passengers, though the third row is best suited for children or small adults.
Q: What’s the starting price of the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander? A: The 2025 Outlander starts at $32,005 for the base ES trim, with all-wheel drive adding $1,800 to most trim levels.
Q: How reliable is the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander? A: The 2025 Outlander has a predicted reliability score of 82 out of 100, indicating above-average reliability expectations, backed by a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Q: What are the main competitors to the 2025 Outlander? A: Key competitors include the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, and Mazda CX-50, though most lack the Outlander’s standard third-row seating.