2015 Mitsubishi Outlander review

1. It can carry your crew

While the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander is a compact SUV, it is one of the larger models, which gives it an advantage when it comes to space. It can carry up to seven people, with the third rearmost row of seats folding flat into the floor when you need to prioritize a trip to the recycling center over ferrying the family around at the weekend.

2. It can carry all your stuff

The rearmost seats split and fold 50/50, and they can be easily stowed by pulling a single strap. For added versatility, the second row of seats is split 60/40, ideal for when you have to choose between passengers and stuff, or both. Leave them upright and there is 34.2 cu-ft of luggage space. Or fold them both and the third row of seats down for 63.3 cu-ft of carrying capacity.

3. Standard all-wheel drive

Entry- and mid-level 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander models are front-wheel drive but venture higher up the range and all-wheel drive becomes standard. This allows you to go off the highway and onto more rugged terrain. The advanced Outlander's S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) combines braking, differential, and stability control technologies to provide added traction on uneven roads or tracks. You can take full advantage of four driving modes, too, including one for snow—as well as two that optimize how you use fuel.

4. Choice of engines

Entry-level ES and mid-range SE 2015 Mitsubishi Outlanders are powered by a 166 hp 2.4L four-cylinder gas engine, coupled to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This engine is the one to have if you're looking to go farther between trips to the gas station, as it has an EPA-estimated combined economy figure of 27 mpg on the 2WD models.

5. New 2015 features

If you fancy an Outlander, Mitsubishi added some standard features to 2015 models. There are minor updates to the exterior look and style of the car, the option of a new-for-2015 Rally Red Metallic paint finish, as well as upgrades to the interior. New features include the availability of standard Bluetooth^® connectivity and Mitsubishi's hands-free FUSE voice command system. In addition, you can play music from all your MP3 devices and the system recognizes up to seven different cell phones—ideal for all your connected family.