2018 Mitsubishi Outlander

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Highlights

The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander enhances its technology offerings with a standard 7-inch touchscreen and a rearview camera across all trims. The SEL grade gains additional safety features, including blind-spot warning (BSW), lane change assist, and rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA). A remote power tailgate is part of the upgrades. The GT trim now includes a multi-view camera system and a heated steering wheel. The most significant addition is the new Outlander PHEV plug-in hybrid variant, featuring standard all-wheel drive and up to 22 miles of electric-only range.

Key Details

• Compact crossover SUV body style
• Three-row, seven-passenger seating (non-PHEV models)
• Three powertrain options, including a new PHEV variant
• Standard front-wheel drive (FWD) or available all-wheel drive (AWD)
• Enhanced safety features on upper trims

Benefits

• Standard third-row seating in non-PHEV models
• Comprehensive warranty coverage
• Available plug-in hybrid efficiency
• Multiple drive modes
• Competitive pricing
• Standard safety features
• Available all-wheel drive
• Flexible cargo capacity
• Enhanced towing capacity
• Good fuel economy ratings

Related: Here Are The Mitsubishi Outlander Years To Avoid

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Overview

Performance

The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander offers three powertrains:

2.4L four-cylinder engine:

• 166 horsepower and 162 lb-ft torque
• Continuously variable transmission (CVT)
• Available in ES, SE, and SEL trims
• Front-wheel drive or available AWD
• Towing capacity: 1,500 pounds

3.0L V6 engine (GT trim):

• 224 horsepower and 215 lb-ft torque
• Six-speed automatic transmission
• Standard all-wheel drive
• Towing capacity: 3,500 pounds
• Premium fuel recommended

Outlander PHEV powertrain:

• 2.0L engine with twin electric motors
• Combined output of 197 horsepower
• Standard Super All-Wheel Control (AWD)
• 22 miles of electric-only range
• DC Fast Charging capability
• Regenerative braking system

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the AWD-equipped 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander a top five-star overall safety rating. The FWD edition earned four stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) designated the 2018 Outlander (with front crash prevention and upgraded headlights) a Top Safety Pick, the group’s second-highest ranking.

Standard safety features include:

• Advanced airbag system
• Stability control
• Traction control
• Anti-lock braking system
• Electronic brake-force distribution

Driver assistance features (trim dependent):

• Blind-spot warning
• Lane change assist
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Forward collision mitigation
• Lane departure warning
• Adaptive cruise control

Driving

The 2018 Outlander delivers a composed driving experience emphasizing comfort and stability. The base 2.4-liter engine provides adequate power for daily driving, while the V6 in the GT trim offers more robust acceleration and enhanced towing capability.

Drive modes and handling features include:

• ECO mode for improved efficiency
• Normal mode for everyday driving
• Snow mode (AWD models)
• Hill start assist
• Active stability control
• Electric power steering
• Four-wheel independent suspension

The Outlander PHEV adds:

• EV Priority Mode
• Series Hybrid Mode
• Parallel Hybrid Mode
• Regenerative braking adjustment paddles
• Twin-motor AWD system

Interior

The interior focuses on functionality with comfortable accommodations across three rows in non-PHEV editions:

Standard features:

• Fabric-trimmed seats
• 60/40 split second row
• 50/50 split third row
• Tilt/telescopic steering column
• Power windows and door locks
• Automatic climate control
• Rear heater ducts
• Second-row center armrest

Available upgrades:

• Leather-appointed seating
• Power adjustable front seats
• Heated front seats
• Heated steering wheel
• Dual-zone climate control
• Power sunroof
• Power remote tailgate
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Black door trim panels
• Roof rails

Cargo capacity:

• 10.3 cubic feet behind the third row
• 34.2 cubic feet behind the second row
• 63.3 cubic feet maximum capacity

Technology

The 2018 Outlander comes equipped with modern technology features:

Standard equipment:

• 7-inch touchscreen display
• Rearview camera
• Bluetooth connectivity
• USB ports
• ECO indicator
• Cruise control
• Remote keyless entry

Available features:

• Multi-view camera system
• Rockford Fosgate premium audio
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Navigation system
• Power remote tailgate
• Push-button start
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• Side view mirrors with turn indicators
• Position sensors
• Remote power tailgate

Fuel Economy

EPA fuel economy ratings vary by powertrain and drive configuration:

2.4L four-cylinder engine:

• FWD (mpg): 25 city / 30 highway / 27 combined
• AWD (mpg): 24 city / 29 highway / 26 combined

3.0L V6 engine:

• AWD (mpg): 20 city / 27 highway / 22 combined MPG

Outlander PHEV:

• 74 MPGe combined (gas + electric)
• 25 combined MPG (gas only)
• 22 miles electric-only range

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book give the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander an average rating of 4.0 out of 5, with similar scores for value and reliability.

Reasons to Buy It

• Standard third-row seating
• Available PHEV option
• Competitive pricing
• Good fuel economy
• Strong safety ratings
• Comprehensive warranty
• Multiple powertrain choices
• Standard technology features
• Available all-wheel drive
• Generous cargo capacity

Problems

• Base engine performance is modest
• Interior materials quality
• Third row is best suited for children
• Road noise at highway speeds
• Limited dealer network
• Resale value concerns

Explore: The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Years To Avoid

CoPilot's Take

The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander offers practical transportation with some distinctive features in the competitive crossover SUV segment. The addition of the PHEV variant provides a unique option for efficiency-minded buyers, while the standard third-row seating adds flexibility for families. The Outlander doesn’t make it on many shoppers’ lists because of dominating rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, yet it’s worth checking out.

While the base engine's performance is adequate rather than exceptional, the V6 option in the GT trim provides more satisfying acceleration and enhanced towing capability. The newly standard technology features and additional safety systems on upper trims help keep the Outlander competitive, though interior material quality trails some rivals.

Older Outlanders had a reputation for problematic transmissions, but these issues have been minimized with the 2018 model year. 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander problems involving the transmission are almost non-existent, based on data from NHTSA and carcomplaints.com.

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander FAQ

How many miles does a 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander last?

A 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander can last 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. The vehicle's longevity depends significantly on following the recommended maintenance schedule, driving conditions, and upkeep. Regular service intervals and addressing issues promptly help ensure maximum lifespan.

Is the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander a high-maintenance car?

No, the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander is not particularly high-maintenance. Regular service intervals are comparable to other vehicles in its class, and parts costs are generally reasonable. The comprehensive warranty coverage (if applicable) helps reduce early ownership costs, though the limited dealer network may require more planning for service visits.

Is the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander a reliable car?

Yes, the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander demonstrates good reliability ratings and owner satisfaction scores. The straightforward mechanical design and proven powertrains contribute to its dependability. While not class-leading, 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander reliability compares favorably to other vehicles in its segment, particularly when properly maintained. J.D. Power gives the 2018 Outlander a “great” rating of 82 out of 100 for quality and reliability.

Check Out: How Long Do Mitsubishi Outlanders Last?