2022 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER REVIEW

Detailed Review

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander marks a major leap in design, technology, and refinement for Mitsubishi’s flagship compact SUV. Co-developed with Nissan and sharing its platform with the X-Trail/Rogue, it offers a more premium feel while staying true to Mitsubishi’s values of reliability, practicality, and all-terrain capability. Its bold evolution of the Dynamic Shield design features a striking grille, split LED headlights, and a wider, more muscular stance that blends sophistication with rugged appeal.

Power comes from a 2.5L MIVEC petrol engine with a smooth CVT, while the standout Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) pairs a 2.4L engine with dual electric motors and Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) for efficient, confident performance. Inside, the Outlander offers a notable upgrade in comfort and quality, with three-row seating, soft-touch materials, a 9-inch touchscreen, digital display, and MI-PILOT driver-assist features, creating a modern, spacious cabin centered on driver comfort and convenience.

For those considering the Mitsubishi Outlander, we’ve prepared a detailed Buyer’s Guide covering key trims, engine options, and reliability insights,  including what to check before buying used. Click here to access the Buyer’s Guide.

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Trim Levels

M (Base):
The entry-level Outlander focuses on practicality and value, offering halogen headlights, fabric seats, manual air conditioning, and a touchscreen infotainment unit with Bluetooth and USB support. It’s well-suited for drivers who want Mitsubishi’s reliability and space in a straightforward, easy-to-maintain package.

G / GLX (Mid-Spec):
Stepping up to the G or GLX trim adds LED headlights, alloy wheels, keyless entry with push-button start, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The interior gains higher-quality materials and a larger infotainment display with smartphone connectivity. This trim offers an ideal mix of modern comfort and affordability, making it the sweet spot for most buyers.

Black Edition / Aspire (Sporty Style):
This variant enhances the Outlander’s visual appeal with black exterior accents, gloss-black alloy wheels, and unique interior trim finishes. Some markets include paddle shifters, sportier seat fabrics, and extra convenience touches. The Aspire trim is perfect for those who want a bold, premium look without moving to the full top-tier model.

Exceed / GT (Flagship):
At the top of the lineup, the Exceed or GT trim showcases Mitsubishi’s best equipment—featuring a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, fully digital driver display, and the brand’s latest driver-assistance tech, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Power is provided by the 2.5L petrol engine or, in select markets, the advanced Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) system with Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) for superior traction and efficiency.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander showcases a major step up in interior design and quality compared to its predecessor. Built under the influence of Mitsubishi’s partnership with Nissan, the cabin feels more premium, refined, and modern.

The dashboard layout features a wide horizontal design with a floating-style infotainment display (8 or 9 inches depending on trim), complemented by digital instrumentation on higher variants.

Soft-touch materials cover most upper panels, while aluminum-style and leather accents enhance the upscale feel. The switchgear is solid and ergonomically arranged, retaining traditional knobs and buttons for key functions—ensuring easy usability without distracting touchscreen dependence.

The Outlander’s standout feature is its three-row seating configuration (standard in most markets). The front seats are supportive and offer excellent adjustability, while the second row provides generous legroom and a reclining function for added comfort. The third row is best suited for children or occasional adult use, but its availability gives the Outlander an edge in versatility over many compact and midsize rivals.

Visibility is also a highlight: large windows and a high seating position offer a commanding view of the road, making it easy to drive in urban environments or tight parking spaces. Overall, the Outlander’s cabin successfully blends practicality with comfort, catering to both families and long-distance travelers.

Cabin Storage

Mitsubishi has designed the Outlander’s interior with convenience in mind. Up front, there are large door pockets, a deep center console bin, and dual cup holders. The dashboard shelf below the infotainment screen provides a handy space for smartphones or small items, while the glovebox is decently sized.

Second-row passengers benefit from seatback pockets and their own cup holders integrated into the armrest, while USB-A and USB-C ports are available across all rows depending on trim. Storage space is intelligently distributed to keep the cabin organized and travel-ready, reinforcing Mitsubishi’s focus on everyday usability.

Boot Space

With all three rows in use, the Outlander offers around 163 liters of cargo capacity—adequate for small bags or groceries. Folding down the third row expands the space dramatically to roughly 793 liters, while a fully flat configuration with both rear rows folded unlocks over 1,700 liters of usable cargo area.

The wide tailgate opening, low loading height, and power tailgate option (on higher trims) make loading bulky items simple. The cargo floor is flat and square, ensuring maximum practicality for luggage, strollers, or camping gear. Whether used as a family hauler or for active lifestyles, the Outlander’s boot design is both flexible and functional.

Exterior

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander marks a major design evolution for the brand, adopting a bold, upmarket appearance that sets it apart from its predecessor. It carries Mitsubishi’s latest “Dynamic Shield” front design, featuring a wide grille flanked by slim LED daytime running lights and vertically stacked main headlamps integrated into the bumper. The look is assertive and sophisticated, giving the Outlander strong road presence whether in urban or highway settings.

From the side, the Outlander presents a confident, muscular profile with sharp character lines and a slightly raised beltline that emphasizes its SUV stance. Depending on trim, alloy wheel sizes range from 18 to 20 inches, complementing its premium proportions. The contrast roof option on higher trims adds a touch of modern flair, while the squared-off fenders and subtle chrome detailing enhance its upscale yet rugged image.

At the rear, the design continues the premium theme with LED combination tail lamps, a sculpted tailgate, and a tidy roof spoiler that adds a sporty finish. The clean bumper design and wide stance give it a stable, planted appearance. Overall, the 2022 Outlander manages to blend elegance with toughness—reflecting its dual role as a family SUV and weekend adventure vehicle.

Ground Clearance: approx. 210 mm (8.3 inches)

Safety Features

The 2022 Outlander is one of Mitsubishi’s safest models to date, offering a robust suite of active and passive safety systems. Built on a reinforced body structure using the RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) design, it provides excellent crash protection through energy-absorbing zones and high-tensile steel construction.

Standard safety equipment includes multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, Active Stability Control (ASC), Traction Control, and Hill Start Assist.

Higher trims and models equipped with Mitsubishi’s MI-PILOT Assist and Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) gain several intelligent features such as:

• Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM)

• Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Lane Change Assist (LCA)

• Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)

• Driver Attention Alert (DAA)

• Lane Departure Prevention (LDP)

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go function

• Automatic High Beam (AHB)

These systems work together to enhance driver awareness and minimize accident risk in real-world conditions. Combined with its commanding driving position, wide outward visibility, and solid structural integrity, the Outlander offers an impressive sense of security both in city traffic and on long-distance trips.

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Fuel Consumption

2.5L Petrol CVT (FWD) – approx. 12–13 km/l
2.5L Petrol CVT (AWD) – approx. 11–12 km/l
2.4L Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) – combined fuel efficiency up to 55–60 km/l (EV + petrol mode) depending on driving conditions

The Outlander PHEV can travel around 50–60 km on pure electric power alone before the petrol engine engages, making it one of the most efficient family SUVs in its class.

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Acceleration

2.5L Petrol CVT (FWD): 0–100 km/h in about 10.5 seconds
2.5L Petrol CVT (AWD): 0–100 km/h in about 10.9 seconds
2.4L Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): 0–100 km/h in about 8.2 seconds

The hybrid model benefits from the instant torque of its twin electric motors, providing strong and smooth acceleration from a standstill.

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Fuel Tank Capacity

55 liters (Petrol models)
56 liters (PHEV combined tank and battery system)

Service and Maintenance

Spare Parts and Availability

In Kenya and most global markets, the Outlander enjoys strong spare parts support through official Mitsubishi dealers and well-established aftermarket networks. Common service parts—such as filters, brake pads, and plugs—are widely available and moderately priced.

Body panels, hybrid components, and electronic modules (especially for PHEV variants) can be pricier, but availability has improved significantly since 2023. Because the Outlander shares its platform with the Nissan X-Trail (CMF-C/D architecture), service expertise and component interchangeability are also improving among local garages.

For owners prioritizing reliability and ease of maintenance, the petrol-only variant remains the most cost-effective choice.

For service parts and body components, Visit: https://yokaspares.co.ke/

Stability and Handling

The 2022 Outlander delivers a stable and composed ride, reflecting its upgraded chassis and suspension tuning under the new Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance platform. The front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension provide a balanced mix of comfort and control, while the longer wheelbase improves ride quality and highway composure.

Steering is light and precise, making the large SUV easy to maneuver in traffic. On rougher surfaces, the Outlander absorbs bumps with confidence, maintaining quietness and comfort in the cabin.

Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system enhances grip and cornering stability, automatically adjusting torque between the front and rear axles for optimal traction. Combined with multiple drive modes—Eco, Normal, Snow, Gravel, and Tarmac—the Outlander adapts seamlessly to varied road conditions.

Reliability

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander upholds the brand’s long-standing reputation for mechanical toughness and dependability. Built under the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, it benefits from a more modern platform and proven powertrains shared with Nissan models. The 2.5L naturally aspirated petrol engine and CVT transmission are engineered for smoothness and long-term reliability, while the 2.4L Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) system has also proven robust in global markets, thanks to improved battery management and electric motor durability.

Owners in Kenya and similar markets report positive experiences regarding ease of maintenance, fuel economy, and general running costs. The Outlander’s mechanical simplicity (for the petrol variant) and solid build quality make it an appealing choice for families seeking an SUV that can handle both city and upcountry driving with minimal fuss.

Resale Value: Good

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Competitors

• Toyota RAV4

• Nissan X-Trail

• Mazda CX-5

• Honda CR-V

• Subaru Forester

• Hyundai Tucson

• Kia Sportage

What We Like

• Bold, modern styling with premium road presence

• Smooth and efficient 2.5L petrol and 2.4L hybrid powertrains

• Spacious, high-quality interior with seven-seat flexibility

• Excellent ride comfort and refinement

• Strong safety package with modern driver-assist systems

• Superb traction with Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC)

• Proven long-term reliability and good parts support in Kenya

What We Don’t Like

• Third-row seats are best suited for children or short trips

• Higher trims can be expensive compared to rivals

• Real-world fuel economy drops slightly with full passenger load

Conclusion

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander represents a major leap forward for the brand, blending modern design, advanced safety, and dependable performance in one well-rounded package. Whether you choose the practical 2.5L petrol or the efficient PHEV variant, the Outlander delivers comfort, refinement, and peace of mind for daily use or long-distance travel.

For Kenyan buyers, the Outlander stands out for its strong reliability record, solid build, and growing parts availability. It’s ideal for families seeking a premium-feeling SUV that remains affordable to own and easy to maintain over time.

If you’re considering a used or imported Outlander, check out our detailed Buyer’s Guide for inspection tips, known issues, and maintenance advice before purchase.

If you are looking to import the Mitsubishi Outlander to Kenya, click here to fill out our contact form, and we will get back to you immediately, or email us directly via [email protected].

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