Pros: Peppy acceleration with V6 engine; versatile all-wheel-system; some rare-for-the-class features
Cons: Weak acceleration with 4-cylinder engine; 3rd-row seat is cramped and uncomfortable for most adults; overly sensitive lane-departure warning system
CG Says: The redesigned 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander sees numerous changes. Though its basic platform remains the same, the front fascia has been dramatically redesigned and nearly all of the sheet model and glass are new. For the first time, 3-row (7-passenger) seating is standard on all trim levels. While the outgoing Outlander had too many demerits to rank among class leaders, the redesigned version addresses those flaws and can now be considered a worthwhile competitor in the compact-SUV class. The GT, with its standard V6 power and exceptional handling, is surprisingly fun to drive. Outlander should appeal to three types of shoppers: those who want a sporty SUV at a reasonable price; those who covet 3-row seating but don’t want to drive a larger vehicle; and those who place heavy emphasis on crash-preventative safety technology but can’t afford a premium SUV.