2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Review: Key Changes Explained
What's New in the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander?
You might glance at the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander and wonder if anything changed. I did too. But beneath its nearly identical exterior lies a transformation that redefines its driving character. Mitsubishi targeted class-leading road manners, investing heavily in suspension retuning and noise reduction. After testing it on punishing Australian roads, I can confirm the updates deliver tangible improvements where they matter most.
Pricing and Core Specifications
The 2025 Outlander range starts at $39,990 for the front-wheel-drive ES, climbing to $57,990 (+ORC) for the flagship Exceed Tourer reviewed here. Prices rose $2,000-$3,000 over the outgoing model. All variants use a 2.5L four-cylinder petrol engine paired with a CVT automatic. Front-wheel drive remains available on ES, LS, and Aspire trims, while Exceed and Exceed Tourer are AWD-only. The plug-in hybrid returns around September 2025.
Key upgrades across all models include:
- 12.3-inch infotainment screen with customizable widgets
- Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Driver monitoring camera
- 360-degree parking cameras
- Yamaha premium audio (12-speaker system in Tourer)
Top-tier Exceed Tourer adds semi-aniline leather seats with heating/ventilation/massage, heated rear seats, panoramic sunroof, and hands-free power tailgate.
Design Changes: Subtle But Purposeful
Spotting visual updates requires a keen eye. Mitsubishi closed off the upper grille (previously mesh) and redesigned the lower valance with a subtle indent. Rear lights now feature smoked lenses, while high-spec models wear new six-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels. The most significant material change replaces aluminum bonnets and front guards with steel panels. This reduces vibration transmitted into the cabin, complementing new sound-deadening measures.
Interior: Practical Enhancements
Inside, Mitsubishi prioritizes usability over radical redesign. The new 12.3-inch touchscreen (replacing 8-9-inch units) dominates the dash. Cupholders now sit beside the gear shifter, which is repositioned closer to the driver alongside the drive mode dial. A larger wireless charging pad prevents phone slippage during cornering. Physical climate controls and steering wheel buttons remain welcome features.
Critical change: Exceed and Exceed Tourer models lose their third-row seats. Instead, you gain a full-size spare wheel. Families needing seven seats must opt for mid-tier Aspire or LS variants.
Driving Experience: The Real Transformation
Suspension and Steering Overhaul
Mitsubishi's Australian engineering team retuned springs, anti-roll bars, and dampers specifically for local conditions. Testing on brutal South Australian roads revealed dramatic improvements:
- Reduced bounce/jitter: The previous model's tendency to "pogo" over undulations is significantly tamed.
- Faster recovery: Suspension settles quicker after sharp impacts.
- Steering stability: Improved straight-line tracking benefits highway driving.
Our testing confirms these changes make the Outlander feel planted and secure on coarse-chip highways, tram tracks, and winding rural routes. While not a sport SUV, it's no longer the wallowing option in its class.
Noise, Vibration, and Refinement
New sound-deadening materials, revised CVT insulation, and the steel bonnet/guards reduce cabin noise. Paired with premium Bridgestone Alenza tires on 20-inch wheels (Aspire/Exceed/Tourer), the 2025 model is notably quieter at highway speeds.
Unchanged Weaknesses
The CVT transmission retains its "stretchy" sensation under acceleration. Engine performance remains adequate but unremarkable.
Exclusive Insights: What the Video Didn't Cover
The Australian Suspension Legacy
Mitsubishi adopted the local team's tune globally. Every new Outlander sold worldwide now rides on Australian-developed suspension. This demonstrates confidence in our engineers' understanding of varied road surfaces and driver preferences.
Third-Row Deletion: Strategic Mistake?
Eliminating seven seats in top trims may alienate families prioritizing space over luxury. While the spare wheel adds practicality, rivals like the Toyota Kluger offer both. This decision could sway buyers toward mid-spec Aspire models.
Verdict: Should You Consider It?
The 2025 Outlander addresses its predecessor's key weaknesses without compromising practicality. The suspension overhaul delivers a genuinely refined ride, while interior upgrades enhance daily usability.
Key trade-offs to consider:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Class-leading ride comfort | CVT transmission feels lethargic |
| Premium cabin materials (Tourer) | Third row deleted in top trims |
| Competitive infotainment | $2,000-$3,000 price increase |
| Reduced cabin noise | Engine lacks low-down torque |
Actionable Buyer's Checklist
- Test drive on rough roads: Verify ride comfort matches your commute.
- Compare Aspire vs Exceed: Determine if third-row seats or luxury features matter more.
- Inspect cargo space: Measure storage with seats folded if carrying bulky items.
- Evaluate dealer servicing: Mitsubishi’s 10-year warranty requires capped-price servicing adherence.
Recommended resources: Visit Drive’s Outlander comparison tool for real-time pricing against rivals like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Nissan X-Trail.
Final Thoughts
Mitsubishi didn’t reinvent the Outlander, but refined it into a more compelling package. The Australian-tuned suspension alone makes it worth considering for buyers valuing comfort over driving dynamics. While the price hike stings, the core improvements justify it for long-distance travellers.
Question for you: Would you sacrifice third-row seating for a spare wheel and premium features? Share your priorities in the comments.
