2018 Mitsubishi Outlander: A Comprehensive Overview
The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander is a three-row compact SUV that offers a compelling blend of practicality, value, and available all-wheel drive. Known for its comfortable ride and family-friendly features, the Outlander aims to provide a versatile option for a variety of lifestyles.
Highlights
- Engine Options: The 2018 Outlander comes with two distinct engine choices.
- 2.4L Four-Cylinder: This standard engine provides adequate power for daily driving and city commuting, prioritizing fuel efficiency. It's paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
- 3.0L V6: Available on higher trims, this more potent V6 engine offers stronger acceleration and towing capability, making it a better choice for those who frequently carry heavier loads or have a need for more spirited performance. This engine is mated to a traditional 6-speed automatic transmission.
- Safety Features: Mitsubishi equipped the 2018 Outlander with a suite of available advanced safety technologies designed to enhance driver awareness and accident prevention:
- Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM): This system uses radar and camera sensors to detect potential frontal collisions and can automatically apply the brakes to reduce the severity of an impact or avoid it altogether.
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW): LDW alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without the turn signal activated, helping to prevent unintentional lane changes.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): ACC automatically adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing driver fatigue on longer journeys.
- Blind Spot Warning (BSW) with Lane Change Assist (LCA): BSW alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots, while LCA can provide steering input to help prevent a lane change if a vehicle is detected in the adjacent lane.
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA): RCTA warns the driver of approaching vehicles from the sides when backing out of a parking space, improving visibility and safety.
- Trim Summary: The 2018 Outlander was offered in several distinct trims, each building upon the features of the one below:
- ES: The base model, offering essential comfort and convenience features, often including a touchscreen infotainment system and rearview camera.
- SE: Stepping up, the SE trim typically adds more desirable features like heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and enhanced infotainment options, often including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- SEL: The SEL trim usually includes premium features such as leather seating, a power driver's seat, and advanced safety features like BSW and RCTA.
- GT: The range-topping GT trim exclusively features the more powerful V6 engine and often includes the most comprehensive list of luxury and technology amenities, such as a sunroof, premium audio, and additional advanced safety systems.
- All-Wheel Drive (S-AWC): Mitsubishi's Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system is a notable available feature. It's a sophisticated electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system that offers multiple driving modes (Normal, Snow, Gravel, and a lock mode) to optimize traction and handling in various road conditions, distinguishing it from many competitors' simpler AWD systems.
- Third-Row Seating: As a compact SUV, the Outlander uniquely offers standard third-row seating, making it a more versatile option for families who occasionally need to transport extra passengers, though it's best suited for children or short trips.
What to Expect
Owning a 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander typically involves a straightforward and generally reliable ownership experience. Mitsubishi vehicles are often perceived as good value for money, and the Outlander generally follows suit.
- Maintenance: Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks, will be comparable to other vehicles in its class. Following the recommended maintenance schedule outlined in the owner's manual is key to ensuring longevity and optimal performance. Mitsubishi generally offers competitive pricing for scheduled service.
- Insurance: Insurance costs for the 2018 Outlander will depend on various factors, including your driving record, location, age, the specific trim level you choose, and the insurance provider. Generally, SUVs in this segment tend to have moderate insurance premiums, though the cost of advanced safety features on higher trims could slightly influence rates. It's always advisable to get quotes from multiple insurance companies.
- Driving Experience: The Outlander is designed for comfortable and compliant everyday driving. The ride quality is generally smooth, absorbing road imperfections well. The cabin is typically quiet, contributing to a relaxed atmosphere. The available S-AWC system significantly enhances its capability in inclement weather.
Potential Considerations
While the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander presents a strong value proposition, there are a few aspects that potential buyers should be aware of:
- Third-Row Space: As is common with compact SUVs, the third-row seating is best suited for children or for short journeys. Adults will likely find the space quite cramped and may struggle with ingress and egress.
- Base Engine Performance: The 2.4L four-cylinder engine, while adequate for daily driving, can feel a bit underpowered when merging onto highways or carrying a full load of passengers and cargo. The V6 option addresses this, but it comes at the cost of fuel economy.
- Interior Materials: While the cabin is generally well-appointed for its price point, some of the interior materials might not feel as premium or as soft to the touch as those found in some competitors.
- Fuel Economy: While the four-cylinder engine offers decent fuel economy, the V6 engine's consumption is noticeably higher, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
- Infotainment System Responsiveness: While later models improved, some reviews indicated that the infotainment system's interface could be slightly less intuitive or responsive compared to some leading rivals of the same year.
Overall Summary
The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander stands out as a practical and well-equipped compact SUV, particularly for families seeking a third row of seating and the availability of an advanced all-wheel-drive system. It offers a comfortable ride, a good array of safety features, and generally competitive pricing, making it a sensible choice for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize functionality and versatility. While it may not boast the most dynamic performance or the most luxurious interior materials in its class, its strengths in practicality, safety, and available all-weather capability make it a compelling option for many.
