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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander

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Overview

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2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 5.9

As one of the larger vehicles in its segment, the 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander strikes a satisfying balance between compact and mid-size SUVs. The Outlander differentiates itself from the competition with an array of optional tech features along with aggressive styling, generous cargo space and available (if snug) seating for seven. Its mechanicals allow the Outlander to fulfill the promise of its bold exterior design: a sport-tuned suspension system, lightweight aluminum roof and available all-wheel drive (AWD) with three driver-selectable modes help deliver a sporting, dynamic driving experience unusual among small SUVs.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you are looking for a compact SUV with one of the most spacious cargo areas in the category, an optional third-row seat and arguably the best AWD system this side of the luxury segment, the 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander may be the one.

You May Not Like This Car If...

While the Outlander returns adequate fuel-economy figures, the Hyundai Tucson, Chevrolet Equinox and the Mazda CX-5 do better. Furthermore, the Outlander's taut suspension may be unsettling for drivers expecting a more relaxed, accommodating ride.

KBB Expert Ratings

Overall Rating

5.9
Driving Dynamics

6.5
Comfort & Convenience

5.9
Design: Interior & Exterior

6.2
Value

5.9
Safety

7.8

How It Ranks

#16

out of 25

MPG

#18

out of 26

Horsepower

View all rankings

Consumer Rating

9.1 out of 10

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consumer ratings

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Low/wide front photo

What's New for 2013

The Mitsubishi Outlander is in its final year of production before a major redesign so changes for 2013 are limited to feature offerings. Heated outside mirrors and front seats, Sirius/XM satellite radio, automatic climate control, the FUSE voice-operated command system and a rear-seat DVD player become available, depending on trim.

Driving the Outlander

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Front angle view photo

Driving Impressions On the road, the 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander's excellent steering and brake feel, sport-tuned suspension and supportive front seats deliver a balance of comfort and confidence that will suit many driving...

styles. And though many of its competitors like the Honda CR-V and Ford Escape can absorb road imperfections with greater poise, the Outlander's lively handling characteristics are worth the small trade-off in ride quality. While the standard 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine is right-sized for basic daily driving tasks, most buyers will prefer the available 230-horsepower V6 for heavy loads and spirited driving. Outlander GT models offer a unique piece of fuel-saving technology called Idle Neutral Logic that automatically shifts the transmission into neutral when the vehicle arrives at a complete stop.

Favorite Features

FUSE VOICE RECOGNITION
Similar to Ford's voice-activated Sync system, Mitsubishi's FUSE allows voice control of Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones for hands-free calling capability as well as streaming audio. The system also manages voice commands for iPods, including Genre, Artist, Album or Playlist.

FLAP-FOLD LIFTGATE
An SUV with good cargo space and fold-flat seating is great for accommodating cumbersome objects, but a protruding rear bumper can complicate the loading. Every 2013 Outlander features a unique tailgate-style rear bumper that folds level with the cargo floor, making it easier to slide bulky objects in and out.

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Details

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Dashboard, center console, gear shifter view photo

Interior

Inside the Mitsubishi Outlander is a clean layout with clear, functional controls and plentiful storage space. With the rear seats folded, the Outlander provides nearly 73 cubic feet of cargo space. The versatile interior offers a variety of configurations for occupants and their gear, thanks to a 60/40 split/fold-flat rear seat that slides fore and aft and (on SE and GT trims) a small yet handy stowable third-row seat. The Outlander's principal shortcoming is the stark, hard-plastic surfaces in the ES and SE models. They could charitably be called Spartan or functional but they just look low-budget.

Exterior

The 2013 Outlander looks bigger than it is, with a stronger presence than most vehicles in this category. Credit its "jet fighter"-inspired trapezoidal grille and bulging fender arches. LED taillights and available xenon headlights (standard on GT trims) help communicate a level of refinement while GT models step up the Outlander's athletic demeanor with a pair of chrome exhaust tips and a black-out front-bumper insert that makes the big grille look bigger still. The wheel lineup ranges from the ES's 16-inch steel wheels to the 18-inch 7-spoke alloys found on SE and GT models.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

The 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander is offered in three trims: ES, SE and GT. Standard across the board is rear privacy glass, LED taillights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, a 60/40-split folding second-row seat and auto-off headlights. SE models add magnesium paddle shifters, 18-inch alloy wheels, a Fast Key entry and starting system – the key fob never needs to leave your pocket or bag – and a fold-flat third-row seat. The range-topping GT models add a 230-horsepower V6 engine, xenon headlights and automatic climate control. Safety features include six airbags and active front head restraints.

Optional Equipment

All Outlander trims offer an available 40GB hard drive-based navigation system with real-time traffic, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system with wireless headphones, and Mitsubishi's FUSE voice recognition system. SE and GT models offer a technically sophisticated AWD system, a rearview camera, a power tilt/slide moonroof, and a 710-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system with a 10-inch subwoofer. The GT's exclusive Touring Package includes leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat.

Under the Hood

The 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander offers the choice of a 168-horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with variable valve timing (ES and SE trims), or a more powerful 230-horsepower V6 (GT). The 4-cylinder engine drives through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) while the V6 is fitted to a manually selectable 6-speed automatic accompanied by steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The base ES trim comes in 2-wheel drive (2WD) only while both SE and GT trims can be had with either 2WD or AWD. Regardless of powertrain, the Outlander runs well and has a spirited, sporty feel, though fuel efficiency is only about average for the category. The 3.0 V6 in the Outlander GT has a Neutral Idle Control feature, which automatically shifts into neutral at stops to conserve a little fuel.

2.4-liter inline-4
168 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
167 lb-ft of torque @ 4,100 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 23/28 mpg (2WD), 22/27 mpg (AWD)

3.0-liter V6
230 horsepower @ 6,250 rpm
215 lb-ft of torque @ 3,750 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/26 mpg (2WD), 19/25 mpg (AWD)

Pricing Notes

The base 2WD SE 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander starts at a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $23,520 and climbs past $38,000 for a fully loaded GT trim with AWD. That price range is close to such class rivals as the Kia Sorento, Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. To see what other buyers are paying for Mitsubishi Outlanders in your area, check KBB.com's Fair Purchase Price. If strong resale value is an important consideration in your next vehicle, we project the majority of the Outlander's competitors will maintain superior 5-year residual values.

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2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

9.1

Out of 10

Based on 201 Ratings for the 2007 - 2013 models.

Review this car

Value

9.3/10

Quality

9.0/10
Reliability

9.5/10

Performance

9.3/10
Comfort

9.1/10

Styling

9.2/10

This is a great crossover

By PK (NY) on Saturday, May 18, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 22,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Good value, Fun to drive"

Cons: "Why does navigation cost 2k+"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"A true do it all vehicle. I own a GT with v6 and AWD. Awesome power, 27.8 mpg highway. Kickin' Rockford-Fosgate stereo. Can't believe how well this handles. No body roll, no wallowing in the corners, yet very comfy ride. Normally, I wouldn't buy an automatic trans., but the paddle shifters are fantastic. Lots of room inside for the size of the vehicle. Even put two adults in the third row for a 50 mile ride with no complaints. Would buy this again."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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This really is the Best vehicle I ever owned

By Ken (NV) on Saturday, May 18, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 87,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 5/10
Comfort: 9/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8

"I have almost 90,000 miles on this Outlander and all I have done is change the oil and bring it in for a couple of regularly scheduled service appointments, some of which Mitsubishi did for free. The 3.0 engine is a great engine and never lacking for power, really nice pick-up. That fold down bottom part of the tailgate is a great idea and I have used it more than I thought I would. I would recommend Mitsubishi to anyone, anytime."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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I love this car!

By miss marie (CO) on Thursday, May 02, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 26,500

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 8/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 7/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "great in all weather, excellent mileage,"

Cons: "inside carpet thin and came loose, turns wide"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I traded in a Subaru Forester for the Outlander and have not regretted one day. The outlander is versatile, with its third row seating, shift on the fly 4WD and the cargo area is much roomer. The gas mileage is great, especially for someone with a mobile business like mine. My assistant loved mine so much, she had to buy one of her own."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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Awesome, you'll not be disappointed!!

By Moose (NJ) on Wednesday, April 03, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 27,700

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "all"

Cons: "none"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I love driving this car. I bought if for my wife but I drive it every opportunity I get. Great handling and the acceleration is that of a V6. The CVT Transmission takes a little getting used to but now I prefer it. And it gets great gas mileage. Great bank for the buck!!"

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Great SUV

By Erixon84 (NY) on Tuesday, April 02, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 9,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "great handling, gas mileage."

Cons: "Pedals are a bit spaced apart, a bit uncomfortable"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I love my Outlander! Bought this brand new from the dealer because it was a good deal. I got almost everything with it except navigation. I got to test drive it during Sandy and the past 2 snow storms we got here on Long Island and this SUV did not let me down. I love everything about it especially the fact i can choose when i want to put the AWD on it or not. Sound system is great. Handling is great. Gas mileage is very good, i only put premium gas and i can get about 300 miles to the tank. The seats can be moved a few inches front or back which is great. Definitely love my car. No issues at all."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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Great decision - stylish, reliable, options galore

By Ryan (CA) on Saturday, March 02, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 13,500

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 7/10
Performance: 8/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 7/10

Pros: "Great deals, fun to drive, high-tech, stylish."

Cons: "Slow acceleration from stand-still, resale value."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I'm a huge fan. I got the car over $7k under MSRP and got a black/black 2012 SE with Premium Package (leather trim w/ white stitching, backup camera integrated into rearview mirror, moon roof, amazing upgraded sound system) and FUSE system which integrates your phone and offers voice recognition. Most of these options either aren't offered in the other cars in the segment, or if they are, you're talking $27k and up. Mine was $20k brand new. I like this car because it's not a plain-Jane Rav4 or CR-V that you see in every single parking lot. It's stylish and people are usually surprised to find out it's a Mitsubishi. I personally don't mind that the brand recognition isn't great, because at the end of the day that's how I got such a great deal. Mitsu's are still quality cars with high reliability ratings and a 10yr/100,000mile warranty. I highly recommend the premium package - the interior upgrade is so worth the extra penny and makes it feel so much more luxurious. I haven't had any issues with the car so far and have impressed a lot of friends with the backup camera that pops up on my rearview mirror when I'm in reverse. Parking's been SO much easier with that. I'm glad I didn't get the nav because it's easy enough with phones nowadays to navigate, plus the USB port allows me to charge my phone while the FUSE system allows me to play my music and listen to GPS Nav commands from my phone through the car's speakers - and all wirelessly! It's a tech-savvy car with high-style points and great quality. When it comes to the engine (my Outlander has the 4 cylinder), I wish it accelerated faster from a stand-still but the handling on the car is pretty sporty. Even though you have to push the engine a bit, it's a fun ride and it's fun to push it to its limits. Gas mileage is okay, definitely not bad for its size but fluctuates a lot depending on how fast you drive. I drive 75-80mph on highway and drive mostly highway and get between 22-25mpg. When I'm driving more cautiously around 65mph, I'll get 26mpg easy. City driving is almost always 22-23mpg. Overall, I love the car and am glad I have something different, something fun, something stylish, and something high-tech. Not to mention, for much less than the competition!"

4 people out of 4 found this review helpful

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