2020 Mitsubishi Outlander

Pros: Peppy acceleration with V6 engine; versatile all-wheel-system; some rare-for-the-class features

Cons: Weak acceleration with 4-cylinder engine; third-row seat is cramped and uncomfortable for most adults; overly sensitive lane-departure warning system

CG Says: The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander now has standard forward-collision mitigation with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beams headlights on all models except the base ES. Also on all models, except the base ES, is a new infotainment system with an 8-screen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality. Plus, there is an improved all-wheel-drive system. Outlander is a compact crossover SUV with three rows of seating for up to seven passengers in conventional gas models. The PHEV hybrid deletes the third-row seat. The base powertrain is a 166-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder mated to a CVT transmission. GT has a 224-hp 3.0-liter V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive. All other conventional gas models offer a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The PHEV plug-in hybrid combines a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with twin electric motors for a combined 197 hp. The PHEV is capable of up to 22 miles on electric power only. All PHEVs are all-wheel drive. Multi-view rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, keyless access and starting, and LED headlights are among the other available features. Though its overall refinement doesn’t match some class competitors, the Outlander is nevertheless a worthwhile entry in the compact SUV segment. The GT, with its standard V6 power and exceptional handling, is surprisingly fun to drive. Outlander should appeal to two types of shoppers: those who want a sporty SUV at a reasonable price and those who covet 3-row seating but don’t want to drive a larger vehicle.