While the idea of having a third-row seat in a small SUV might sound appealing, the reality is that most of these models are heavily compromised. Case in point: the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander. Its cramped third-row seat is unsuitable for all but small kids, and cargo space also suffers because that third row takes up space even when folded down.

That alone should be enough for shoppers to pick between small two-row SUVs or step up to a three-row midsize SUV. But the Outlander has other drawbacks. It's not enjoyable to drive, the seats can be downright uncomfortable, and there's a general feeling of cheapness throughout. Overall we think you'll be happier with a top two-row small SUV such as the Honda CR-V. Or check out the Kia Sorento or the Volkswagen Tiguan. They both offer third-row seats but have fewer drawbacks than the Outlander.

Edmunds’ Expert Rating

Rated for you by America’s best test team

Our verdict

6.6 / 10

The Mitsubishi Outlander is merely adequate. It doesn't offer many reasons to buy it over any other small SUV. If you can up your budget a little bit, almost any midsize three-row SUV is better. On the other hand, if you don't need a third row, other small SUVs are more desirable. Simply put, you can do better than the Outlander.

How does it drive?

6.5

The Outlander's acceleration is fine for typical driving situations. It's when you ask for extra that the Outlander falls flat. The standard four-cylinder engine is underpowered, making the Outlander feel slow even with just a driver on board. We're certain that most shoppers will find the top GT trim a much better choice if your budget allows. The V6 and conventional transmission are far superior.

The Outlander can handle a set of corners at moderate speed without much difficulty. But that's as good as it gets. It's certainly not fun to drive. The brakes require a hard squeeze to bring the Outlander to a stop, which makes it hard to always stop smoothly.

How comfortable is it?

6.5

The Outlander offers a smooth ride over most roads. The only exception is when you hit midcorner bumps; they send a big shock through the cabin, and it feels like you lose traction.

The first- and second-row seats are fairly uncomfortable, partially owing to the lack of available adjustments. Most SUVs in this class are good at keeping out outside noise and engine vibration, but not the Outlander. Even at idle, the engine vibrations can be felt through the seats. The engine is also noisy when accelerating.

How’s the interior?

6.5

Getting into the Outlander can be tricky for adults due to the high-mounted seats and low steering wheel. Rear passengers also have to stoop down a bit to avoid thumping their head on the low roof. Once seated, adults in the second row will have to scoot the seat all the way back to avoid brushing the headliner. The third-row seats are acceptable for small children only, but that's common for this class.

The driver information display has a strange, one-button control scheme that isn't very intuitive. Other controls are within the driver's reach, though some of the driving aids are grouped unintuitively throughout the cabin. On the plus side, a low hoodline and beltline, along with narrow pillars and wide windows, make it easy to see forward and to the side.

How’s the tech?

7.0

Every model but the base ES comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. You'll need them too since onboard nav is not offered. The Outlander's two USB ports aren't sufficient for a family road trip. We do like the optional Rockford Fosgate sound system for its punchy subwoofer and clarity.

Many driver aids are available, but only at the top trim levels. We like that the lane departure warning system isn't overly sensitive, but the adaptive cruise control system doesn't look far enough ahead at highway speeds. Approaching stopped traffic requires driver intervention.

How’s the storage?

7.0

Like most small three-row SUVs, there's not much room with all the seats up. Because the third-row seatbacks are short, small suitcases standing up will be visible over the seatbacks. Other top-rated two-row small SUVs generally have more maximum cargo room. The Outlander's second and third rows fold completely flat at least.

Storage up front is limited to just two central cupholders and a small bin under the armrest. There are large front door pockets, with room for an upright water bottle.

How economical is it?

7.5

The EPA estimates the Outlander with the four-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive at 26 mpg combined (24 city/29 highway). Getting the V6 takes you down to 22 mpg. Both numbers are decent for this class of vehicle.

Is it a good value?

7.5

The quality of materials up front is pretty standard for the class, though the design isn't particularly attractive. Lots of little things contribute to an overall feeling of cheapness. The second-row seat bottoms fold up to allow for a flat second row, for instance, but are held in place by flimsy little arms. You have to line up the arms exactly to return the seat bottom to its original place.

The Outlander's base price is about average for the segment, though upper trims offer better value. Warranty coverage is very good.

Wildcard

5.5

The Outlander seems like the SUV you buy because you have no other three-row SUV options. The Outlander's exterior design helps it stand out from other SUVs, but otherwise there's not a lot going on here.

Which Outlander does Edmunds recommend?

The Outlander certainly has a price advantage in the class, but we suggest stepping up to the top-of-the-like GT trim. It's the only model that gets the V6 engine that is more powerful than the weak base engine and transmission combination. You also get all-wheel drive as standard, leather seats, LED headlights, a premium audio system and adaptive cruise control.

Mitsubishi Outlander models

The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander is a seven-passenger small SUV that is available in six trim levels: ES, SE, LE, SP, SEL and GT. Most trims come with front-wheel drive and offer all-wheel drive as an option. The GT is the exception and comes standard with all-wheel drive.

ES
Standard feature highlights include:

A 166-horsepower four-cylinder engine
A continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT)
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Heated front seats
A 7-inch touchscreen

SE
The SE includes all of the ES' feature, plus a lot of convenience items that include:

Automatic headlights and high beams
Keyless entry and ignition
Power-adjustable front seats
An 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Forward collision detection with automatic braking
Lane departure warning

LE
The LE adds a several dark exterior and interior accents along with:

Roof rails
Power-folding mirrors
A sunroof
A blind-spot monitoring system

SP
The new SP trim has all of the LE's dark accents and features, plus:

Additional body elements to give it a sportier look

SEL
The SEL trim adds some luxury touches to the SE's equipment list with:

Chrome exterior accents
A power liftgate
Leather upholstery

GT
The top GT trim includes the SEL features as well as:

A 224-hp V6 engine with a six-speed automatic transmission
LED headlights
A heated steering wheel
A premium audio system
Adaptive cruise control

Consumer reviews

There are no consumer reviews for the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander.

Features & Specs

SE 4dr SUV features & specs
SE 4dr SUV 2.4L 4cyl CVT
MSRP	$26,095
MPG	25 city / 30 hwy
Seating	Seats 7
Transmission	Continuously variable-speed automatic
Horsepower	166 hp @ 6000 rpm

See all for sale

ES 4dr SUV features & specs
ES 4dr SUV 2.4L 4cyl CVT
MSRP	$24,895
MPG	25 city / 30 hwy
Seating	Seats 7
Transmission	Continuously variable-speed automatic
Horsepower	166 hp @ 6000 rpm

See all for sale

SE 4dr SUV AWD features & specs
SE 4dr SUV AWD 2.4L 4cyl CVT
MSRP	$28,095
MPG	24 city / 29 hwy
Seating	Seats 7
Transmission	Continuously variable-speed automatic
Horsepower	166 hp @ 6000 rpm

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LE 4dr SUV features & specs
LE 4dr SUV 2.4L 4cyl CVT
MSRP	$27,295
MPG	25 city / 30 hwy
Seating	Seats 7
Transmission	Continuously variable-speed automatic
Horsepower	166 hp @ 6000 rpm

See all for sale

See all 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite Outlander safety features:

Blind-Spot Monitoring: Alerts the driver of a car hidden in a blind spot (or an approaching one) to protect against a dangerous lane change.
360-Degree Camera: Creates a simulated bird's-eye view of the car for tight parking situations, allowing the driver to see the car from all angles.
Forward Collision Mitigation: Helps mitigate an accident by monitoring ahead, warning the driver of an impending collision, and applying the brakes in certain scenarios.

NHTSA Overall Rating 4 out of 5 stars

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	4 / 5
Driver	4 / 5
Passenger	5 / 5
Side Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Driver	5 / 5
Passenger	5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings	Rating
Front Seat	5 / 5
Back Seat	5 / 5
Rollover	Rating
Rollover	4 / 5
Dynamic Test Result	No Tip
Risk Of Rollover	18.5%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Side Impact Test	Good
Roof Strength Test	Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint	Good
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test	Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test	Good

Mitsubishi Outlander vs. the competition

Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Kia Sorento

The Kia Sorento is our top-rated pick among the few choices in the small three-row SUV class. The Sorento gets high marks for its long list of standard features, attractive cabin and industry-leading warranty coverage. Its third-row seats, like those of its rivals, are very small and really only useful in a pinch. We could use more cargo space and more power from the engine choices.

Compare Mitsubishi Outlander & Kia Sorento features

Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Volkswagen Tiguan

The Tiguan is one of the newer entrants in the class and benefits from its relatively spacious interior, decent cargo space and an easy-to-use infotainment system. It's not particularly powerful, though, and fuel economy is below average too. Still, we regard it as a much better choice than the Outlander.

Compare Mitsubishi Outlander & Volkswagen Tiguan features

Mitsubishi Outlander vs. Kia Telluride

Since we recommend stepping up to the range-topping GT trim for the Outlander, you might as well step up a class to the midsize SUV class if you really need three rows of seats. Why not get the top-rated Kia Telluride? The base Telluride is priced similarly to the Outlander GT but has a generous list of features.

Compare Mitsubishi Outlander & Kia Telluride features

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FAQ

Is the Mitsubishi Outlander a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2020 Outlander both on the road and at the track, giving it a 6.6 out of 10. You probably care about Mitsubishi Outlander fuel economy, so it's important to know that the Outlander gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg to 27 mpg, depending on the configuration. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Outlander has 10.3 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Mitsubishi Outlander. Learn more

What's new in the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander:

New 8-inch touchscreen for most trim levels
New USB ports for the rear seats
New midlevel SP (special edition) trim
Part of the third Outlander generation introduced for 2014

Learn more

Is the Mitsubishi Outlander reliable?

To determine whether the Mitsubishi Outlander is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Outlander. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Outlander's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2020 Outlander and gave it a 6.6 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2020 Outlander is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander?

The least-expensive 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander is the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander ES 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $24,895.

Other versions include:

SE 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $26,095
ES 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $24,895
SE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $28,095
LE 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $27,295
SEL 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $27,495
LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $29,295
ES 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $26,895
GT 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6A) which starts at $33,745
SEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $29,495
SP 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $30,495
SP 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $28,495

Learn more

What are the different models of Mitsubishi Outlander?

If you're interested in the Mitsubishi Outlander, the next question is, which Outlander model is right for you? Outlander variants include SE 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT), ES 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT), SE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT), and LE 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT). For a full list of Outlander models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more

More about the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander

2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Overview

The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander is offered in the following submodels: Outlander SUV. Available styles include SE 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT), ES 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT), SE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT), LE 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT), SEL 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT), LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT), ES 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT), GT 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 6A), SEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT), SP 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT), and SP 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT).

What do people think of the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander and all its trim types. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2020 Outlander.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2020 Outlander featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

What's a good price for a New 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander?

2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT)

The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $31,405. The average price paid for a new 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT) is trending $3,054 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $3,054 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $28,351.

The average savings for the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT) is 9.7% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 5 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.

2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT)

The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $29,625. The average price paid for a new 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT) is trending $2,770 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $2,770 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $26,855.

The average savings for the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT) is 9.4% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 10 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.

2020 Mitsubishi Outlander ES 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT)

The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander ES 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $26,235. The average price paid for a new 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander ES 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT) is trending $1,010 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $1,010 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $25,225.

The average savings for the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander ES 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT) is 3.8% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 8 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander ES 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.

2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SE 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT)

The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SE 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $27,625. The average price paid for a new 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SE 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT) is trending $2,540 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $2,540 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $25,085.

The average savings for the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SE 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT) is 9.2% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 5 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SE 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.

2020 Mitsubishi Outlander LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT)

The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $30,825. The average price paid for a new 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT) is trending $2,789 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $2,789 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $28,036.

The average savings for the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT) is 9% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 3 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander LE 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.

2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT)

The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $29,025. The average price paid for a new 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT) is trending $2,633 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $2,633 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $26,392.

The average savings for the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT) is 9.1% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 3 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.

Which 2020 Mitsubishi Outlanders are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander for sale near. There are currently 170 new 2020 Outlanders listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $26,035 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $5,651 on a used or CPO 2020 Outlander available from a dealership near you.

Can't find a new 2020 Mitsubishi Outlanders you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Find a new Mitsubishi Outlander for sale - 1 great deals out of 21 listings starting at $22,721.

Find a new Mitsubishi for sale - 5 great deals out of 23 listings starting at $10,696.

Why trust Edmunds?

Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.

Should I lease or buy a 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

Check out Mitsubishi lease specials

2020 Mitsubishi Outlander