2025 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL POV Review: A Surprising Underdog

Powertrain and Performance

• ⚡ The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL features a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
• ⚙️ It comes standard with front-wheel drive, with an optional Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system that includes various drive modes like Normal, Eco, Snow, and Gravel.
• ⚠️ While not powerful enough for rally-style driving, the powertrain is backed by a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, indicating manufacturer confidence.

Interior Features and Comfort

• 🎶 A standout feature is the Yamaha 12-speaker premium sound system, described as one of the best in its class for this price point.
• 💺 The SEL trim offers leather upholstery, power front seats with memory, heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and tri-zone automatic climate control.
• 💡 Tech highlights include a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12.3-inch digital driver display.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The vehicle seats up to 7 passengers, with a third row best suited for children, and offers ample cargo space when rows are folded.

Driving Dynamics and Technology

• 🛣️ The ride quality is noted as excellent, even with 20-inch wheels, and the chassis dynamics are well-calibrated for a crossover.
• 🚗 The steering is described as sharp and responsive, with a decent turning radius, though the powertrain requires patience for passing or merging.
• 🚦 Drive modes include Normal, Eco, Tarmac, Gravel, Snow, and Mud, with the S-AWC system providing good mechanical grip and traction.
• 🤖 Driver assistance features include adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist, though the steering assist control is noted as being deep within the menu system.

Exterior and Practicality

• 🌟 The Outlander's exterior design is distinct from its shared platform with the Nissan Rogue, featuring 20-inch alloy wheels and a stylish rear spoiler.
• 📦 Cargo space is versatile, with 11.7 cu ft behind the third row, 33.5 cu ft behind the second, and up to 79.7 cu ft with both rows folded.
• ⛽ Fuel economy is rated at 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, with an average observed combined MPG of 27.5 during testing.

Overall Impression

• 👍 The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL is presented as a charming underdog that hits many marks for practicality, features, and price.
• 🔊 The Yamaha sound system is a significant highlight, potentially being a reason to opt for this trim or vehicle.
• 🚀 Despite a humdrum powertrain, the overall package, including handling, ride quality, and technology, makes it a well-rounded and improved offering compared to its platform sibling.
• 💰 Priced under $40,000 for the SEL trim, it offers substantial value, with the as-tested price nearing $46,000.