Overview

The second-generation Mitsubishi Outlander is the best car the Japanese company has produced in years. Nearly all models come with seven seats, making it a good choice for larger families, while the interior is well built and durable.

There’s plenty of cabin space, it’s very good to drive and comes well equipped – even in entry-level trim. Unfortunately it isn’t quite as refined or as practical as other offroaders with a narrow load space and a firm ride. The extra seats are also very cramped and offer little comfort.

On the plus side, it’s available with a 2.0-litre diesel engine from Volkswagen which offers strong performance and useful economy. The Citroen C-Crosser and Peugeot 4007 are both based on the Outlander.

Good to drive

The Mitsubishi Outlander is one of the better compact SUVs to drive, even though it also offers more than a modicum of off-road ability. It has responsive handling and accurate steering, and it keeps body lean under control when cornering.

Add in the switchable four-wheel drive system that offers superb traction for icy road conditions and off-road work, and the Outlander is one of the most versatile cars in its class. The 156- and 174bhp 2.2-litre turbodiesel engines are smooth and pull strongly, working through either six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes.

Cramped rear space

If there’s one area where the Mitsubishi Outlander lets itself down, it’s the poor rear seat space on offer for passengers in the third row of seats. Rear leg room is very limited, which is a disappointment in a car of this size and type that offers seven seats, and it’s not a patch on MPVs such as the Renault Grand Scenic or Vauxhall Zafira Tourer. However, fold these two rear-most seats down and the Outlander has a generous boot as a five-seater.

As a result, the Outlander works best as a five-seat SUV with the option of carrying small children now and again in the third row. For more, read the full Mitsubishi Outlander review that follows.