2018 Mitsubishi Outlander

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Rating6.9

Ranked #8 in 

Fullsize SUV
Write Review
$23,945 - $32,245
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on June 10, 2024

ProsConsWhat's New

Sturdy Design

Build Quality

Hybrid option available

Reliable Engine

Performance

Off-road Capabilities

Lacks comfort/interior space

Fuel Economy

Outdated Design

Low cost of ownership

Specs & Features

$25,445

price

166 hp @ 6000 rpm

horsepower

162 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm

torque

1 CVT w/od

transmission

2.4L 4cyl 4WD CVT

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander comes in four trim levels, with prices ranging from $20,395 to $25,995. Every Mitsubishi Outlander comes equipped with a 7-inch touch screen and a rearview camera for 2018. The SEL trim now has a Blind Spot Warning, Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and a Remote Power Tailgate. A multi-view camera and heated steering wheel are standard on the Outlander GT.

A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 166 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque is combined with a continuously variable automatic transmission in the Outlander (CVT). An all-wheel drive is an option, although the front-wheel drive is standard. The Outlander PHEV plug-in hybrid, which comes with all-wheel drive and can travel up to 22 miles on electricity alone, is a new addition to the roster.

Buying Advice

The ES 2.0 packs enough for an affordable, 3-row all-weather SUV but for $20,395, you get a front-wheel drivetrain which limits its off-road capability but paying an extra $2700 for all wheel drive train doesn’t sound much affordable. In case you need the off-road powers just go for the LE or the SE variant. AS for the SEL it depend on how deep your pocket is but at that price point, better consider other options.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

"The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander is an affordable three-row crossover that deserves a look from those looking beyond the usual suspects." - The Car Connection

The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander gets new front and rear bumpers, LED running lights, a redesigned center console, and a new shift lever. In addition to new silver interior stitching, a 7.0-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is now standard. The base 2.4-liter I-4 engine delivers 166 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque.

The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander is available in four trim levels, starting at $20,395 and rising to $25,995. The five-year expenditures of gas, insurance, repairs, and maintenance for the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander are expected to be around $22,700, or $4,540 per year. If you're on a budget and need a three-row crossover that can handle all types of weather, the Outlander is a good option.

Features
7.0/10

The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander is available in four trim levels, with prices ranging from $20,395 to $25,995. The Outlander ES 2.0 is the base model, having a 148hp engine, a 5-speed manual transmission, a touch screen infotainment display, a rear-view camera, alloy wheels, cruise control, keyless entry, panic mode, and power mirrors, as well as several optional packages and features.

You receive LED daytime lighting, fog lights, heated seats, a leather steering wheel, and a more modern infotainment system when you upgrade to LE 2.0. All LE enhancements are included, as well as a 7.0" Smartphone Link Display Audio, six-speaker audio system, satellite radio, and USB port on SE models. The SEL variant includes all of the SE features plus some additional automatic/power functions.

Trims ES 2.0 LE 2.0 SE 2.4 SEL 2.4
MSRP (FWD) $20,395 $22,595 $22,995 $24,495
MSRP (AWD) 23,095 $24,095 $24,495 $25,995
Key Features 7.0” Touch panel display audio system with rear view camera Xenon headlights with LED running lights Includes all LE’s upgrade except Xenon headlights and styling changes Include all SE’s upgrade and adds Xenon headlights
  18-inch two-tone alloy wheels 6.5” Smartphone Link Display Audio System USB port power adjustable drive seat
   Bluetooth, cruise control  A leather-wrapped steering wheel Satellite radio leather upholstery
  remote keyless entry with panic feature  Heated front seats Six speaker audio system Auto dimming rearview mirror
  color-keyed folding side-view mirrors with turn indicator Fog lights 7.0” Smartphone Link Display Audio Automatic wipers
        Power folding mirrors

We recommend

The SE version of Outlander is the one we suggest. It sits slightly above the base ES and adds foglights, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and heated front seats to the mix. The top-of-the-line GT boasts a more powerful and desirable V6 engine that boosts towing capacity, but it's also the most expensive Outlander. As a result, it's difficult to suggest it above more sophisticated competitors. Fortunately, the SE retains the third row of seating and all-wheel drive, as well as the relatively low price that made the Outlander appealing in the first place.

Fuel Economy
7.0/10

The Mitsubishi Outlander gets an average of 23 miles per gallon in the city and 29 miles per gallon on the highway, for a total of 25 miles per gallon. Individually, the fuel efficiency is excellent, but not when compared to the competitors. The 3.0-liter V6 offers  23 mpg combined while the PHEV variant of the Outlander offers a combined 5 mpg combined and 74 MPGe.

Models

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander

2018 Jeep Renegade

2018 Honda HR-V

2018 Mazda cx-3

MPG city

23

24

25

29

MPG highway

29

31

33

34

MPG combined

25

26

28

31

The Outlander is the least fuel-efficient vehicle in the class, whereas the Mazda CX-3, Honda HR-V, and Jeep Renegade dominate the segment. And, once again, weight plays a vital role in the quest to be the greatest in each segment.

Interior
7.0/10

“The first two rows offer plenty of space for adults, but the third row is only suitable for small kids. Build quality is still a bit disappointing as well. Outward visibility is excellent.”- Edmunds

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Seating and Comfort

The Mitsubishi Outlander is a 4-door crossover with either a 5-seat or a 7-seat layout. The Outlander is well-equipped in terms of the infotainment system and offers a plethora of convenient features for its budget, but the build quality is a major letdown. The dash's low-quality plastic, the interior's archaic style, and the low-quality seating material are the main low points in the interior.

The Outlander has a multifunctional steering wheel, 6-way manual driver seat, 4-way manual passenger seat, and split-folding rear seats with a center armrest, among other amenities. The driver's side has plenty of controls, storage, and various analog buttons, some of which are false. The center console, on the other hand, is sparse.

Models

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander

2018 Jeep Renegade

2018 Honda HR-V

2018 Mazda cx-3

Passenger capacity

5

5

5

5

Passenger Volume(ft cube)

97.5

100.1

100.1

86.3

Front (Head/Hip/Shoulder/Leg)

(In.)

39.4/52.1/56.2/41.6

41.1/53.1/55.9/41.2

39.5/53.1/56.8/41.2

37.6/52.3/53.5/41.7

Second (Head/Hip/Shoulder/Leg)

(In.)

37.9/51.6/55.5/36.3

40.5/51.9/55.1/35.1

38.3/47.4/54.5/39.3

37.2/49/50.4/35

Interior Features

  • Remote Keyless entry
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Power steering
  • Tilt-telescopic Steering wheels
  • Cruise control
  • Climate control
  • Manually adjustable seats
  • Rear-view camera
  • Dual vanity mirrors
  • Interior Filtration

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Infotainment System

The Outlander has a pretty loaded infotainment system for the higher tiers of course. The base model features a 7.0” touch panel display, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, 10 watts Stereo Output with AM/FM stereo, and a set of 6-speaker. For an added feature, it gets speed-sensitive volume control and that sums up its infotainment features.

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Cargo Capacity

The 2018 Outlander offers a standard cargo volume of 21.7 cubic foot which can be expanded up to 49.5 cubic feet. Being an SUV makes it easier to access the cargo area but rear seats being manually adjustable, sure going to be a bit of a workout.

Models

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander

2018 Jeep Renegade

2018 Honda HR-V

2018 Mazda cx-3

Behind Second Row (cube ft.)

21.7

18.5

24.3

12.4

Second Row Folded (cube ft.)

49.5

50.8

58.8

44.5

The standard cargo volume offered by the Outlander is good but the Jeep Renegade and the Honda HR-V offer quite commendable cargo volume.

Exterior
5.0/10

“Simple and understated, the design of the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander doesn’t stand out in a class that includes the more aggressively styled Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Still, the Mitsubishi’s look is clean and attractive, with a BMW-like character line down it flanks and an angular nose that hints of the Lexus NX SUV.”- Kelley Blue Book

Dimension and Weight

The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander doesn't alter much from last year; it still has the famed dynamic shield design in the front and a nearly identical side or rear appearance. It features a more sleek and modern appearance, as well as a very solid construction. LED daytime running lights, Xenon headlights, and a sunroof are available on higher trim levels, but the entry model must make do with a plain-looking Outlander.

The Outlander weighs 3032 pounds and measures 171.9 inches in length. The Outlander measures 71.3 inches wide and 64.8 inches tall, so it's not a particularly large SUV, but it's certainly roomy. The 8.5-inch ground clearance improves off-roading capabilities, while the 105.1-inch wheelbase ensures stability.

Models

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander

2018 Jeep Renegade

2018 Honda HR-V

2018 Mazda cx-3

curb weight(lbs)

3032

3056

2888

2809

Length(in)

171.9

166.6

169.1

168.3

Width(in)

71.3

74.2

69.8

60

Height(in)

64.8

66.5

63.2

60.7

Ground clearance(in)

8.5

6.7

7.1

6.2

Wheelbase(in)

105.1

101.2

102.8

101.2

Track width(in) F/R

60.6/60.6

60.6/60.6

60.4/60.6

60/59.9

Exterior Features

  • Body-color door handle
  • Body-color Mirror
  • Chrome Grille
  • Halogen Headlamps
  • 18x7.1 inch wheels
  • All-season tires
  • Spare tires

Safety
7.0/10

The 2018 Outlander safety system is almost the same even in the higher trim levels. In terms of safety it offers more than enough as for its value. And the best of all, it has been rated 5 stars for its overall safety features by NHTSA and IIHS which proves that it is pretty safe. The standard safety features are as follow-:

  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
  • ABS and Driveline Traction Control
  • Side Impact Beams
  • Dual Stage Driver and Passenger Seat-Mounted Side Airbags
  • Low Tire Pressure Warning
  • Dual Stage Driver and Passenger Front Airbags
  • Curtain 1st And 2nd Row Airbags
  • Airbag Occupancy Sensor
  • Driver Knee Airbag
  • Rear Child Safety Locks
  • Outboard Front Lap and Shoulder Safety Belts -inc: Rear Center 3 Point, Height Adjusters and Pretensions
  • Back-Up Camera

Competition
9.0/10

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander VS 2018 Jeep Renegade

The Jeep Renegade is the most affordable crossover in this class, with a starting price of $17,995. It comes with a 160 horsepower engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. The Renegade is the most capable in terms of performance stats, but it has an odd-looking body that some of you may or may not like. The Renegade is small and lacks practicality and interior room when compared to the Mitsubishi, but it has a more modern and comfortable cabin. Its compact body design makes it more agile and easy to operate, extending its off-roading range in tight spaces.

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander VS 2018 Honda HR-V

In fact, the Honda HR-V is the most fashionable vehicle in the class. It is slightly less powerful than the Outlander, but it offers superior fuel economy, passenger volume, load capacity, and a lighter body for a lower price of $19,570. One of the first things you'll notice is that the Honda looks more modern and elegant, whilst the Mitsubishi is bulkier and more traditional. When it comes to performance, the Mitsubishi has the edge, but both vehicles provide a similar level of comfort.

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander VS 2018 Mazda CX-3 

The Mitsubishi Outlander is noted for its excellent ride and handling characteristics. It has independent front and rear suspensions, which allow the wheels to move freely on the road, including around turns and on the pavement, without sacrificing comfort. The Mazda CX-3, on the other hand, has a semi-independent rear suspension. The Mazda CX-3 lacks front parking assistance, whereas the Mitsubishi Outlander has parking sensors as an option.

Final Verdict

The Mitsubishi Outlander is a cost-effective crossover designed to manage the everyday commute, highway driving, and off-roading. The Outlander, which has Japanese DNA, is dependable, durable, and easy to ride, and it provides a reasonable amount of comfort, as well as an excellent fuel economy and low cost of ownership. One of the most significant flaws of the Outlander is its outmoded interiors, which feature low-quality materials and a lack of practicality. However, in terms of SUV capability, the Outlander has plenty to meet your needs and keep things moving.

Trims

    ES
    $23,945 onwards
    • Dual-Zone automatic climate control
    • Height-Adjustable driver seat
    • Led running lights & taillights
    • Rear privacy glass
    • Rearview camera
    • Six-Speaker sound system
    • Tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel w/ Leather-Wrapped
    • Voice controls & Bluetooth connectivity
    SE
    $24,945 onwards
    • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
    • Body-Colored side mirrors w/ integrated turn signals
    • Heated Front Seats
    • Keyless ignition and entry
    • Satellite radio
    LE
    $26,145 onwards
    • Black exterior trim
    • Black roof rails
    • Blind-Spot monitoring
    • Rear cross-traffic alert
    SEL
    $26,145 onwards
    • Auto-Dimming rearview mirror
    • Automatic headlights
    • Automatic wipers
    • Eather upholstery
    • Gloss-Black interior trim
    • Power driver seat
    • Power liftgate
    • Power-Folding mirrors
    GT
    $32,245 onwards
    • Sliding and tilting glass Sunroof
    • Steering-Wheel shift paddles

Compare to similar cars

Price

$23,945- $32,245

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

6.87

Horsepower

224 hp @ 6250 rpm

Torque

215 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm

Capacity

7

Read Review

$39,995- $55,715

Gasoline

7.76

310 hp @ 6800 rpm

260 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm

7

Read Review

$22,990- $32,100

Gasoline

6.97

138 hp @ 4900 rpm

148 lb.-ft. @ 1850 rpm

5

Read Review

$23,580- $37,230

Gasoline

6.79

170 hp @ 5600 rpm

203 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm

5

Read Review

$49,190- $67,900

Gasoline

7.27

355 hp @ 5600 rpm

383 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm

9

Read Review

$46,340- $65,130

Gasoline

6.97

355 hp @ 5600 rpm

383 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm

9

Read Review

$29,930- $52,600

Gasoline

7.67

310 hp @ 6800 rpm

260 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm

8

Read Review

$21,000- $28,795

Gasoline

6.49

138 hp @ 4900 rpm

148 lb.-ft. @ 1850 rpm

5

Read Review

$29,995- $62,995

Gasoline

7.05

293 hp @ 6400 rpm

260 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

5

Read Review

$22,995- $34,895

Gasoline

5.5

173 hp @ 6000 rpm

166 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

7

Read Review

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    9.1 sec16.9 sec120 mph
    6.2 sec14.8 sec-
    6.3 sec14.9 sec130 mph
    6.5 sec15.1 sec131 mph
    6.5 sec14.9 sec116 mph
    6.7 sec15.2 sec132 mph

    2018 Mitsubishi Outlander vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      25 mpg30 mpg27 mpg16.6 gal.415/498 mi.
      52 mpg49 mpg50 mpg11.9 gal.618.8/583.1 mi.
      34 mpg30 mpg32 mpg14.8 gal.503.2/444 mi.
      29 mpg34 mpg31 mpg12.7 gal.368.3/431.8 mi.
      27 mpg33 mpg30 mpg13.2 gal.356.4/435.6 mi.
      27 mpg31 mpg29 mpg13.2 gal.356.4/409.2 mi.

      2018 Mitsubishi Outlander vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        184.8 in.71.3 in.67.3 in.8.5 in.105.1 in.
        224.4 in.80.5 in.74.4 in.7.9 in.130 in.

        2018 GMC Yukon XL

        Ranked #1

        224.4 in.80.5 in.74.4 in.7.9 in.130 in.
        208.9 in.79.9 in.75.8 in.9.1 in.121.1 in.
        205.1 in.79.9 in.77 in.9.9 in.122 in.
        204.3 in.78.8 in.69.9 in.7.7 in.120.9 in.

        2018 Mitsubishi Outlander vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          10.3 cu.ft.128.2 cu.ft.63.3 cu.ft.
          16.5 cu.ft.152.9 cu.ft.83.9 cu.ft.
          18.9 cu.ft.-120.1 cu.ft.
          30.9 cu.ft.103.6 cu.ft.59.6 cu.ft.
          24.6 cu.ft.105.4 cu.ft.100.7 cu.ft.Jeep USA
          20.6 cu.ft.153.7 cu.ft.96.8 cu.ft.

          2018 Mitsubishi Outlander vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            239.4 cu.ft.10.3 cu.ft.63.3 cu.ft.-
            81.5 cu.ft.32 cu.ft.70 cu.ft.-
            61 cu.ft.15.3 cu.ft.94.7 cu.ft.79 ft.
            81.7 cu.ft.16.1 cu.ft.81.7 cu.ft.-
            14.3 cu.ft.47.7 cu.ft.84.5 cu.ft.-
            83.1 cu.ft.21 cu.ft.81.7 cu.ft.73 ft.

            2018 Mitsubishi Outlander vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              1500 lbs.1157 lbs.3351 lbs.
              9300 lbs.1233 lbs.3056 lbs.Jeep USA
              8600 lbs.1720 lbs.5355 lbs.
              8600 lbs.1031 lbs.2809 lbs.
              8500 lbs.1690 lbs.5379 lbs.
              8500 lbs.1724 lbs.5576 lbs.

              2018 Mitsubishi Outlander SUV Problems, Issues, Complaints, Recalls, and which year to avoid?

              5

              Recalls

              0

              Investigations

              49

              Complaints
              Overall Safety Rating
              Read More

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              2018 Mitsubishi Outlander

              Horsepower : 166 hp @ 6000 rpm

              MPG Combined : 27 mpg

              0-60 : 9.1 sec

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              2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

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              2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid SUV

              Horsepower : 117 hp @ 4500 rpm

              MPG Combined : 25 mpg

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