Since this latest generation model arrived at Mitsubishi showrooms back in 2021, the Outlander provided the brand a much-needed boost in this market. It has lead sales within Mitsubishi for the past few years.
In order to keep it fresh, the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander received a mid-cycle refresh focusing on technology, while expanding the lineup to include a new ruggedized model. At its heart, it is still a compact-sized, three-row SUV with a choice between an internal combustion engine and a plug-in hybrid.
One of the updates is seen up front with new smoother finished panels on the upper part on the front clip. This is part of the Dynamic Shield front end design. LED headlamps flank the lower grille with driving lights/turn signals up top. 
The roofline retains the “floating roof” trim and glass. All of which finishes up with horizontal LED taillight units and a wide-opening liftgate.
Our SE with Technology Package sampler adds a handsome set of 20-inch two-tone alloy wheels, and a panoramic sunroof.
The one thing we appreciate in the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander is the upgraded technology inside. Where the 2022 Outlander stands out interior-wise is right in front of the driver. The 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster is part of the SE Technology package, offering… The center stack now has a larger 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen that offers a host of connected features and information. A welcome addition is the new Yamaha Dynamic Premium Sound System with eight speakers. The shifter retains its sliding mechanism, with plenty of tactile controls throughout the cockpit.
In the SE with the Technology package, the seats are upholstered in synthetic leather with suede inserts. The front seats were comfortable and supportive. The 40/20/40-split second-row seats were fine, taller passengers would have to tuck their heads into a space behind the panoramic sunroof. The third row is strictly for children. 
Cargo space starts with a small 11.7 cubic foot space behind the third row. If you fold down the third row - and stow the headrests inside the compartment behind thiose seats – and that space expands to 33.5 cubic feet. Fold both rear rows down, and you get 78.3 cubic feet of space. 
Powering the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander is a 181-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 181 pound-feet of torque. It is connected to a continuously variable transmission with eight ratios available to the driver through a pair of paddle shifters on the steering wheel. Our tester had Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel-Control that is controlled by a knob on the center console, as well as six pre-set drive modes.
Performance was very good overall. It had solid passing power and can cruise quite nicely. It also does a nice job getting around town or on a backroad. The best part is how the CVT serves up the “shifts” with ease. In terms of fuel economy, we observed an average of 26.3 MPG throughout our loop.
The ride quality of the 2025 Outlander was very smooth, while absorbing every kind of road surface. We found that maneuverability was good, and the Outlander exhibited minimal lean and roll through the corners.
The steering system offered a tight turning radius, while providing plenty of control at the wheel. On-center feel was quite good. Braking was also very good, with great stops in normal and panic situations. Pedal feel was very solid.
There are six trim levels available in the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander, along with six additional PHEV models. Pricing starts at $29,995. Our SE with Technology Package tester came with a sticker price of $39,880.
The 2025 Outlander continues to play in a hotly contested segment. It continues to compete with Volkswagen Tiguan, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5 and CX-50, Subaru Forester and Outback, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Cherokee, Chevrolet Equinox, GMC Terrain, Ford Escape and Bronco Sport.
If you have not experienced a 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander, you may be missing out on a great SUV offering great value and a lovely driving experience. In fact, you should put this on your shopping list. It would be worth your while.
