FAST FACTS
Model: 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander SELExterior color: Cosmic Blue MetallicInterior color: BeigeEngine: 2.4-liter, four-cylinderHorsepower: 166Transmission: continuously variableFuel economy: 29 mpg highway, 24 mpg cityLocal Dealer: Edd Kirby's Adventure MitsubishiPrice (as tested): $30,225
The beige leather upholstery in the 2019 Outlander SEL provides a nice contrast to the dark blue exterior. A former boss once told me that every workplace has employees who are racehorses and employees who are workhorses.
The racehorses are flashy and get all the attention, he said. Meanwhile, the workhorses contribute by staying in their lanes and doing their jobs.
The Mitsubishi Outlander SEL is a workhorse: an SUV for all seasons and all reasons. While it doesn't merit a lot of superlatives, it provides solid, reliable transportation at a reasonable price.
Who needs sizzle when you can get simple.
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Our 2019 Outlander tester, provided for a one-week trial by the manufacturer, is in SEL trim with optional all-wheel-drive. Like all Outlanders it comes standard with a third row providing seating for seven passengers.
Outlanders are available in Chattanooga at Edd Kirby's Adventure Mitsubishi on M.L. King Boulevard. At press time the dealership listed 22 2019-model Outlanders and (smaller) Outlander Sports in digital inventory, including SEL models like our tester.
WHAT IS IT?
A small, three-row SUV with a value orientation. Our tester is powered by a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine that makes 166 horsepower. For those who need a bigger engine that can tow up to 3,500 pounds, the Outlander GT has a V-6 engine making 224 horsepower.
WHAT DOES IT COST?
Our tester, which includes almost no optional equipment, has a bottom line price of $30,225 before discounts. Published discounts indicate your actual purchase price might be thousands less. The cheapest Outlander, the ES, starts at $24,695. The top-of-the-line GT, on the other hand, lists for $33,195 and up.
WHAT WE LIKED
Our log-book contained several "likes" including the generous use of chrome on the Outlander's exterior, the new body-hugging front seats, and the standard 10-year or 100,000 mile powertrain warranty. The Outlander also has outstanding safety scores and an easy-to-use infotainment system channeled through a 7-inch display.
ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT
Aside from the chrome embellishments, the exterior styling is a bit bland, also the all-wheel-drive function requires push-button activation (most SUVs in this class have a full-time system). Fuel economy - 29 mpg highway and 24 mpg city - is middle-of-the-pack.
Mark KennedyDRIVING IMPRESSIONS
The four-cylinder engine was a little buzzy for our mountain commutes. If you live at altitude, and are interested in buying an Outlander, the six-cylinder GT might be the better option. Otherwise, the Outlander's ride is comfortable, if not particularly memorable.
BOTTOM LINE
If the idea of buying a generic - but sturdy - SUV as a significant discount to the market sounds good to you, the Outlander is a reasonable choice.
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The 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL is shown in Cosmic Blue Metallic paint.