The Mitsubishi Outlander adds three new trims for 2023, the Ralliart, Black Edition and 40th Anniversary but otherwise carries over with minimal changes.

There are five different versions of the Mitsubishi Outlander for 2022: ES, SE, SE Black Edition, SEL, SEL Black Edition, SEL 40th Anniversary and Ralliart. The Ralliart and 40th Anniversary trims are only available with an all-wheel drivetrain while all other trims can be had in either front- or all-wheel drive form. Its offered with a single engine a 181-horsepower 2.5L 4-cylinder engine mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).

The Outlander may not present as a hard-core off-roader, but it has enough toughness and ground clearance to get through loose, rocky trails and the occasional forest road. S-AWC models (with all-wheel drive) include an electronically controlled center coupling and an open rear differential. The system is supplemented by an active front differential that helps get the torque split correct between front wheels, which is especially helpful in low-traction situations like ice, snow and mud.

In all models, the second row can fit up to three, and it's 40/20/40 split, with the seatbacks folding forward for more cargo capability or reclining, and there are adjustments for sliding fore and aft as well. The third row can fit two, and it's split 50/50, with a fold-flat mechanism. With both rows folded, the Outlander has up to 128 cubic feet of cargo space.

Equipment included on base ES models of the Outlander includes dual-zone automatic climate control, rear-seat heat ducts, remote keyless entry, cruise control, an 8-inch touch-screen display, 2 USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, steering-wheel audio controls and a 6-speaker sound system.

Stepping up to the SE adds, a passive-entry system and a 9-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, Bluetooth, 2 additional USB ports. SE Launch Edition trim add a power tailgate, and SiriusXM satellite radio.

Top of the line Outlander SEL Black Edition models come with rain-sensing wipers, standard multi-view camera and heated steering wheel, an 8-way power driver seat, auto-dimming rearview mirror, a power liftgate, a premium Mitsubishi Power sound system and leather seat trim.

High-tech safety come standard on all trims which include parking sensors, Forward and Rear Collision Mitigation and Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, driver attention alert and rain-sensing wipers.

The Outlander is in a crowded field, up against best-sellers including the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape and the Subaru Forester. Against these, the Outlander offers a comparable exterior but manages to pack seating for more people inside.

Interior space and fuel efficiency are both big strengths. Mitsubishi also says that the Outlander is one of the most fuel-efficient utility vehicles offered in the North American market with standard 7-passenger seating (it gets an EPA estimated 30 mpg highway). Furthermore, the hybrid model shows a real commitment to the use of alternative energy offering 22 miles without a single drop of gasoline.

Seating space for up to seven; good fuel economy from 4-cylinder engine; active-safety options; smooth ride; all-weather capability