The Mitsubishi Outlander was first introduced in 2007. US News & World Report rated it at 7.6 out of 10 noting that they liked the interior, warranty length, and the available list of high-tech features such as navigation, Bluetooth, and an entertainment system. 

Since its debut, the Mitsubishi Outlander has struggled to gain popularity with SUV buyers, and it appears the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander won’t fare much better.

The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander

Starting at $24,895 MSRP, the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander is a small/compact, four-door SUV designed to seat five to seven occupants. It is available in either front-wheel or all-wheel drive variations and delivers around 20–25 mpg city and 27–30 mpg highway depending on which gasoline power train is chosen.

The available plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) model gets an equivalent 74 mpg when operated as an electric vehicle. Overall, there are thirteen trim/drivetrain configurations to choose from but ultimately there are only two traditional gasoline engine choices, three counting the hybrid option.

The base equipped engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 166 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. Mitsubishi pairs this engine with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).

A CVT isn’t necessarily a bad transmission, there are some impressive vehicles that offer them, such as the Subaru WRX. However, when paired with an underpowered 2.4-liter it does nothing to enhance the acceleration of the Outlander. 

Stepping up to the Outlander GT allows access to a 3.0-liter V6 that makes 224 hp and 215 lb-ft of torque. The more powerful V6 is backed by a six-speed automatic transmission and delivers about average fuel economy. However, unlike the 2.4-liter, the 3.0-liter V6 is recommended to only operate on premium fuel.

The available Outlander PHEV operates on a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric drive motors that work together to produce 197 hp. The PHEV is only available with all-wheel drive and a single-speed transmission.

Operating on electric power, the Outlander PHEV has a range of 22 miles and can be recharged using 120-volt household-type power outlets in eight to 13 hours.

Despite the long list of downsides to the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander there are some encouraging points. Kelley Blue Book awarded the 2020 Outlander with its 5-Year Cost to Own award and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) proclaimed it an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

Does the Outlander come with Android Auto?

The short answer is yes. However, it is not included in the base ES model, only in SE trim and above. The base price difference between the ES and SE trim is $1,200. That increase not only gets the buyer Android Auto, it includes forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. 

Android Auto allows your Android operating system compatible smartphone to integrate with the Outlander’s infotainment system. Connection and set up should be done while safely parked but once the set up is finished Android Auto will allow the driver to control various functions hands-free without taking their eyes off the road by voice command.

One can dictate text messages, answer or place calls, navigate using Google Maps, and search the internet by simply saying “OK Google” then giving a command. Android Auto makes it simple to switch between music playlists on your phone to your favorite Pandora station, or a podcast of your choosing. 

If you’ve saved your home location on Google Maps it’s always easy to find your way in the event of a detour due to road construction or an accident. If you’re on your way home and a detour forces you from your normal route, once you’ve safely passed any road work or emergency vehicles just say, “OK Google, navigate to home.” From your current location, Google Maps will provide turn-by-turn directions to get you home safely.