The Mitsubishi Outlander carries over with minimal changes for 2026 while updating the trim lineup.

There are a few different versions of the Mitsubishi Outlander for 2026: ES, LE, SE, SEL, Ralliart, Trail Edition and Black Edition. The Ralliart and the Trail Edition trims are only available with the all-wheel drivetrain while all other trims can be had in either front or all-wheel drive form. It is offered with a single engine a 177-horsepower 1.5L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).

The Outlander may not be present as a hard-core off-roader, but it has enough toughness and ground clearance to get through loose, rocky trails and the occasional forest road. S-AWC models (with all-wheel drive) include an electronically controlled center coupling and an open rear differential. The system is supplemented by an active front differential that helps get the torque to split correctly between front wheels, which is especially helpful in low-traction situations like ice, snow, and mud.

The ES trim features a rear spoiler, turn signal indicators in the side mirrors, LED headlights and daytime running lights, 18-inch wheels, auto-dimming rearview mirror, automatic dual-zone climate control, satellite radio, an 8-speaker sound system, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, voice activated navigation, cruise control, wireless device connectivity, and 3 USB ports.

The SE trim adds a power liftgate, heated side mirrors, LED fog lights, 20-inch wheels, HD radio, adaptive cruise control, a garage door transmitter, wireless device charging, and push button start.

The SEL includes a power sunroof, roof rails, power folding side mirrors, power heated rear seats, sport pedals, driver seat memory, ambient lighting, 5 USB ports, and 12.3-inch gauge cluster.

The Black edition sits at the top of the lineup mainly focused on interior changes than the SEL trim. It has leather upholstered seats, separate rear climate controls, head-up display, heated leather steering wheel, and traffic sign information system.

Standard safety features include parking sensors, lane departure, blind spot warning, forward and rear collision mitigation, front pedestrian detection, and a driver attention alert.

The Outlander is in a crowded field, up against bestsellers including the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape and the Subaru Forester. Against this, the Outlander offers a comparable exterior but manages to pack seating for more people inside.

Interior space and fuel efficiency are both big strengths. Mitsubishi also says that the Outlander is one of the most fuel-efficient utility vehicles offered in the North American market with standard 7-passenger seating since it gets an EPA estimated 30 mpg highway.

Seating space for up to seven; good fuel economy; active-safety options; smooth ride; all-weather capability