Outlander

While the fully redesigned 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander offers three rows of seats at a low price, critics say it falls short of rivals with a low-buck interior, sluggish engine and unrefined transmission.

The 2014 Outlander comes standard with a four-cylinder engine that test drivers say could use more power. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission that is criticized for making the Outlander's acceleration feel sluggish, as well as producing an unpleasant droning noise during acceleration. A V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission come in the top GT trim, and while reviewers agree that this powertrain feels stronger, some note that it still isn't as strong or refined as rivals' powertrains. With the base engine, the Outlander gets up to an EPA-estimated 25/31 mpg city/highway, which is very good for a three-row midsize SUV. Reviewers report that the Outlander's ride is fairly comfortable, and some say its handling is fairly sporty as well. However, others think the Outlander doesn't feel as nimble as its rivals. Test drivers agree the Outlander's brakes have adequate stopping power, but say the steering feels light, which they like for driving through parking lots, but not for driving on the highway.

While some reviewers write that the Mitsubishi Outlander's interior features more pleasing and high-quality materials than last year's model, others say the interior panels aren't as high-quality as what most rivals offer. The seven-seat Outlander has far less cargo space than most other three-row midsize SUVs, and even less than some two-row compact crossovers. Standard features include a six-speaker stereo and automatic climate control. Options include a backup camera and 6.1-inch touch-screen display, Mitsubishi's Fuse hands-free Link System with a USB port, Bluetooth, navigation with a 7-inch touch-screen display, a nine-speaker Rockford Fosgate stereo system, adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Reviewers like the Rockford Fosgate system, but complain that it is difficult to program the navigation system.

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