The Little-Known Mitsubishi Outlander Packs Big Value

Mitubishi is the six largest auto manufacturer in Japan, a regular fixture in nations such as Japan, Thailand, Australia and the Philippines. Enter the Mitsubishi Outlander, a little-known yet highly stylish and capable midsize SUV that you don't see every day. With Mitsubishi being less-known in the USA, there are ample opportunities for a great deal from Mitsubishi this model-year end.

In the United States, Mitsubish sells less than 100,000 units a year, which makes it less than 10% of Honda North America’s size. But Mitsubishi has been selling cars here since 1982, bringing us fan favorites like the Starion supercar in the 80’s and the 3000GT, Eclipse, and Evolution performance cars in the 90’s and 2000’s. The Outlander is now the modern evolution of the familiar Montero nameplate.

The Outlander is good for 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, an impressive feat for its size and seven seats. All-wheel drive is optional on all Outlanders (about $1,800), while front-wheel drive is standard. All Outlanders get an automatic continuously variable transmission. Trims of the Outlander are numerous, but the entry level ES model starts at just $28,395 msrp. Standard features include 7 passenger seating, 18 inch alloy wheels, an 8 inch smartphone-link display audio system, blind spot, forward collision, and lane change warning system, and all the power options you’ve come to expect as standard on a new car. SE trim, $31,445 msrp, adds 20 inch two tone alloy wheels, a larger navigation system with smartphone link, keyless entry, heated front seats, LED fog lights, a power lift gate, and synthetic leather seating surfaces.

Step things up to the SEL, $34,945 msrp, and the Outlander starts to become luxurious, adding a 12.3 inch digital driver display, three zone automatic climate control, 8 way power adjustable driver seat, heated rear seats, silver roof rails, and real leather seats. Platinum Edition, starting $40,845 msrp, adds two-tone black diamond paint with alloy silver metallic roof, ground illumination, LED interior lighting, special badging, a Satin hood emblem, and scuff plates. There is also a special blacked out edition of the SEL if you prefer the midnight look.

Outlander also has a Hybrid offering, which steps up both performance and pricing. The Hybrid Outlander starts at $42,045, but improves horsepower by roughly 35 percent. A plug-in option allows an EV-only range of up to 38 miles.

Right now Mitsubishi is offering a staggering 0.0% APR on Outlanders for 60 months plus no down payment as the model year wraps up. Mitsubishi has other cash offers, such $3,500 factory rebate on Platinum trim. Lease for $388/month for 39 months with $4,387 down. Mitsubishi also has a best-in-the-industry 10-year, 100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty. Be sure to consult local dealers as incentives may vary by region. Cast a wide net using the dealer inventory tool and compare multiple stores within a reasonable driving radius; despite national promotions, not all dealers price the same, and some will be more aggressive on in-stock colors or option packages. Ask every store for an out-the-door price that includes taxes and fees, and be selective about add-ons like paint protection, VIN etching, maintenance packages, and extra alarm systems—polite declines on extras can save hundreds or even thousands.


Autosplainer is for informational purposes only. Best attempts are made to ensure reliability and timeliness of information. Autosplainer does not sell vehicles or offer products or services of any kind for sale.