Under the hood lies a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre engine producing 181 horsepower, enough for a composed, confident ride in daily use. Fuel economy of up to 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway keeps operational costs reasonable in today’s market. Add to that the fact that it seats up to seven passengers, and you have a compelling package for families who need space without breaking the bank.

Meanwhile, a large 12.3-inch touchscreen anchors the modern cabin, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto built in. Multiple USB charging ports, an intuitive dash layout, and a quiet cabin all reinforce that Mitsubishi is serious about delivering a high-value experience. Combine that with advanced driver-assist systems like forward collision mitigation and a camera system for parking, and you’ve got an SUV that punches above its price slot.

Do note, though, there’s a recent recall: Mitsubishi has issued a recall covering over 91,000 Outlander and Outlander Hybrid units in the U.S. over a rear liftgate issue involving gas spring corrosion. Prospective buyers should check VIN status before purchase and clarify that the recall applies to earlier model years, not the 2025 version specifically.

How does it compare to rivals?

It’s an intensely competitive field. The 2025 Outlander lines up against key players like the Kia Sorento, Hyundai Santa Fe, and even the Nissan Pathfinder for buyers wanting three-row flexibility. Yet where it beats rivals is in the standard equipment and ownership assurances.

In testing, some rivals offer more powerful turbo engines, but they often sacrifice reliability or long-term costs. Mitsubishi’s able but modest 181 hp engine isn’t going to win drag races, but it delivers consistent, dependable performance for most family duties. For instance, it takes about 8.6 seconds to hit 60 mph in real driving tests.

On safety, the Outlander fares respectably. The IIHS has given it “Good” ratings on headlight performance. In NHTSA testing, the AWD version earns a four-star overall safety rating. Rivals sometimes edge ahead with five-star ratings or more comprehensive crash testing, but Mitsubishi’s inclusion of a suite of driver-assist technologies as standard helps close the gap.

Where many rivals trip up is warranty, resale, or options packaging; Mitsubishi’s 10-year/100,000-mile warranty is a clear differentiator. In addition, internal reviews and resale data suggest the Outlander tends to hold its value well over time. That said, rivals may offer more trim variation, hybrid options, or stronger performance in specific models.

Who is this for, and who should skip it?

The ideal buyer is a family or commuter who desires a well-rounded SUV without luxury pricing. If you need seven seats, modern tech, a quiet cabin, and solid safety systems but don’t want to pay premium brand premiums, the 2025 Outlander is squarely in your crosshairs.

It’s also well-suited for long trips thanks to its quiet interior, smooth suspension that soaks up rough roads, and versatile cargo capacity. The hands-free power liftgate, multiple drive modes (Eco, Sport), and strong connectivity features make it practical for daily use and weekend escapes.

That said, it isn’t for those who demand high performance. If you expect brisk acceleration or spirited driving, the 181 hp naturally aspirated engine may feel underpowered. Buyers who prioritize the most cutting-edge hybrid or electric tech will want to look at plug-in or EV alternatives. Also, the third row is more useful for occasional use than as a full adult space, rivals with deeper third rows might be better for full-size traveling parties.

What is the long-term significance?

The 2025 Outlander could reshape buyer expectations in its class. Its value proposition, combining a long warranty, solid features, and respectable performance, raises the bar for what “affordable midsize SUVs” must include. Mitsubishi is making a statement: you don’t have to pay premium brand prices to get a modern, safe, tech-rich SUV.

Over time, as more buyers realize they can get a polished, reliable crossover without heavy compromise, rivals will feel the pressure to match warranty, tech, and standard safety levels. Resale performance and retained value will reward well-engineered models, and Mitsubishi is well-positioned on that front.

Furthermore, this model may encourage Mitsubishi to expand into more advanced variants. Indeed, an off-road–oriented Outlander has already been confirmed for a 2026 launch. That shows Mitsubishi is aiming to broaden its appeal beyond value buyers into niche adventure buyers. It signals confidence in the current generation’s architecture.

Ultimately, long term the 2025 Outlander could become a reference point: “What a $32k family SUV should include.” If Mitsubishi executes well on quality, reliability, and sales, it might shift the balance in the midsize crossover wars.

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