Any tailor will tell you it takes many small details to make a good suit. Sure, the big things are the cut and cloth (worsted wool, of course) – you need a good base from which to start. But true quality comes from getting the little things right: perfect stitching, the right lining, exact measurements. Really, there's nothing like a bespoke suit; if you have the means, we recommend one.
Mitsubishi is counting on a lot of small detail changes to its Outlander – more than 100, in fact – to make a difference in the premium compact crossover segment. Think less off-the-rack, more Savile Row. And while this isn't a completely new car – this version debuted in 2014 – Mitsu has a good base from which to improve on; last year's Outlander is a good-handling crossover and is the only Japanese compact SUV to offer both a V-6 engine and three rows of seating.
These changes have definitely improved the Outlander. A stiffened chassis and revised suspension makes the handling tighter, without sacrificing ride comfort. A new CVT for the four-cylinder engine (the V-6 gets a six-speed auto only) is re-tuned and makes the car feel peppier. And more insulation, better weatherstripping and other additions mean a quieter cabin, too.
But some of those small changes are features that other cars in its class have had standard for a long time. How about automatic folding mirrors? A knit headliner? A padded centre console armrest? The interior is better, but it doesn't have the premium feel of a Honda or Toyota.
And some changes don't go far enough – the third-row seats, for example, still need to have their headrests removed to fold down.
Ultimately, while the updated Outlander is better than the last iteration, it's still not up to par with other compact crossovers when it comes to style, interior quality and luxury features. However, it's close, and that 10-year, 160,000-kilometre powertrain and five-year, 100,000-kilometre overall warranty could certainly tip the boat for many people – but it could still do with some better tailoring.
You'll like this car if ... A big warranty is at the top of your driving needs.
TECH SPECS
- Base price: $25,998
- Engine: 2.4-litre four-cylinder, 3.0-litre V-6
- Transmission: CVT, six-speed automatic
- Fuel economy (litres/100km): 9.2 city, 7.5 highway
- Alternatives: Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, Ford Escape, Chevrolet Equinox, Mazda CX-5, Jeep Cherokee, Kia Sportage, Volkswagen Tiguan
RATINGS
- Looks: While Mitsu didn’t take any chances with the overall design, changes to the front and rear give the Outlander a more premium appearance, with LED running lights and more chrome accents. The grille sports the auto maker’s new “dynamic shield” design philosophy, which will show up on future Mitsubishi products.
- Interior: There are a few changes inside for the better, such as improved leather, a nicer steering wheel and new materials for the accent panels. But there’s still too much hard plastic all around, with switchgear that feels on the cheap side.
- Performance: Mitsubishi has to be commended for the Outlander’s handling; the steering is nicely weighted and has good feedback, there is controlled roll in tight corners, and it soaks up bumps for a calmer ride than last year’s model. Power isn’t enthralling but at least it’s not lethargic; there’s not much discernible difference in performance between engines, but the V-6 is rated for towing.
- Technology: New options include wiper de-icers, an auto dimming rear-view mirror and keyless, push-button start, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and forward collision avoidance (auto braking when an imminent crash is sensed), as well as buttons to simplify the audio/nav system. But there’s nothing outstandingly new for the segment.
- Cargo: The middle seats are easily folded in a three-step process to create a flat floor for cargo, while the third row has a compartment to store the headrests when folded. But it has less cargo room than others in its class.
The Verdict
6.0
The Outlander is a satisfying drive – entertaining, even – but it feels like it's trying to play catch-up with the segment leaders.
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