ENHANCED STYLING

The 2019 Outlander changes include revised front-end styling and standard 18-inch wheels. Every model comes with more supportive and comfortable front seats, upgraded interior trim, rear-seat climate-control vents, and an electric parking brake. The spare tire has been replaced by a tire-repair kit. SEs now have soft-touch seats, power-adjustable front seats, and a rear USB port, also found on SELs and GTs. Styling is appealing, but less than dramatic.

LINEUP

Four specific models are available, ranging from the Outlander ES 2WD to the Outlander GT S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control). In between are the Outlander SE 2WD and S-AWC, and Outlander SEL 2WD and S-AWC. The two middle trims are available in either 2WD or S-AWC, while the GT trim comes only in S-AWC. The ES trim offers AWC instead of S-AWC. A PHEV model is also available. Beyond each trim level, additional packages provide extra features, along with a host of individual accessory options.

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) today announced the Outlander plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) was named a finalist for the 2019 Green SUV of the Year® award by Green Car Journal.

MOTIVE FORCE

Powering the 2019 Outlander GT is a 3.0-liter, 24-valve, V-6 engine that produces 224 horsepower at 6,250 rpm along with 215 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,750 rpm. A four-cylinder 2.4-liter provides power for all other models. The 3.0-liter V-6 is coupled to a six-speed Sportronic automatic transmission with paddle shifters. All four-cylinder Outlanders employ a CVT transmission. The S-AWC provides four operational modes for enhanced driving efficiency: AWC ECO, Normal, Snow, and Lock.

COMFORT

AND CONVENIENCE

The Outlander GT blends pleasing driving dynamics with contemporary visual appeal, functionality, and versatility. It’s not only comfortable, but agile as well. Seating up front is adjustable for optimum driving comfort. Ride quality is comfortable and the 710-watt Rockford Fosgate premium audio system features digital signal processing, MP3 playback capability, and nine speakers, including an enclosed 10-inch subwoofer.

AS TESTED

My test 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander was in GT trim powered by the 3.0-liter V-6 and with S-AWC. The base price was $33,195, while the price as tested with the GT Touring Package and destination and handling charge totaled $36,700. The exterior wore a Pearl White metallic finish, while the interior was done in Tan and Charcoal tones highlighted by gloss faux carbon fiber trim accents.

PERFORMANCE

The 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander GT is a sporty crossover SUV, adding new state-of-the-art technological features for added comfort, convenience, and security. My GT tester featured an impressive list of standard features and equipment, with more than enough power to accomplish basically any assigned task.

Shifting gears may be accomplished automatically or via magnesium steering-wheel-mounted paddles. The S-AWC elevates the level of driver control along with hill start assist, and uses an active front differential and an electronically controlled center differential system. Driving force is directed from front to rear and from left to right on the front wheels. Towing capability is up to 3,500 pounds.

OUR FINAL TAKE

The Outlander is attainable for a wide range of consumers thanks to its broad price range and various trim choices across the model lineup. The optional equipment packages are also reasonably priced, allowing consumers to personally equip their selected Outlander model to best fulfill their requirements and desires.

On the plus side is the affordable three-row seating, although the third-row space is somewhat limited. The 3.0-liter V-6 is obviously superior to the 2.4-liter four-banger in terms of performance output, and the conventional six-speed Sportronic automatic with paddle shifters is more fun to drive than the CVT. If you’re in the market for a more compact crossover, then the smaller Outlander Sport may prove to be more to your liking.