2022 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL S-AWC Takes The High Road

Mitsubishi hits the US market sweet spot dead on with the all new Outlander SEL-AWC compact SUV.

The new Outlander has stunning curb appeal — all eyes counting the number of LED high and low beams, fog lamps and running lights stacked in two columns framing a triple-segmented front grille and lower air intake array.

The trim new body is laser sculpted with upper and lower accent lines down the sides, with flaring wheel wells and a rear section that is said to pay homage to the Mitsubishi Montero.

The nearly top trim Outlander SEL S-AWC is powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder direct-Injection 181 horsepower engine, which does the job admirably in this substantial feeling SUV, which outweighs all of its class competitors by several hundred lb.

Touting Super All Wheel Drive Control the Outlander offers better than expected on and off-road handling.

Expect a new plug-in hybrid as the highly rated earlier Outlander PHEV carries on for another season.

The premium stitched quilted leather interior and comprehensive tech suite are both appealing and functionally impressive for a vehicle in the $27K – $37K price range.