The latest BMW X3 is well worth considering if you’re looking for a family SUV with a spacious and plush interior that’s relaxing to drive.
Pros Spacious cabin Practical boot Quiet and comfortable to drive
Cons Desirable options cost extra Looks like the old car Cabin doesn’t look very exciting
The X3 also becomes a more full-fledged member of the BMW family with its upgraded interior. And at a time when some of the brand’s passenger-car offerings have strayed from BMW’s historically strong dynamics, the new X3 makes an encouraging showing there as well.
Pros Chassis tuning like BMWs of old, improved interior, plenty of passenger and cargo space.
Cons Imprecise variable-ratio steering, goofy electronic shifter, the entry-level four pales next to the six-cylinder.
After a redesign just last year, the Mitsubishi Outlander gets a few more updates for 2017. The previously optional 6.1-inch touchscreen and rearview camera are now standard. New optional features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic high beams, a 360-degree camera system and a heated steering wheel. Mitsubishi has also eliminated its optional navigation system from the options list. Finally, all-wheel drive is now available on the base ES trim.
Pros Generous list of standard features Standard three-row seating.
Cons Slow acceleration with the base four-cylinder Some desirable features are available only on pricey and thirsty GT Limited Mitsubishi dealer network.
The 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander provides functional family appeal for a reasonable price, but the powertrains are weak, the third-row seat space is tiny, and the infotainment features are behind the times.
Pros Pleasant ride Available active safety features Third-row seat can be used in a pinch Advanced all-wheel-drive system available Quiet cabin
Cons V-6 model too expensive Bland, unassuming looks Infotainment behind the curve Tiny third row
The 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander ranks 17 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander has a high-quality interior and confidence-inspiring safety scores. It's also one of few compact SUVs that comes with a third row of seats, but they're too small for adults. It all goes downhill from there: dull performance, a rough ride, a hard-to-use infotainment system, and subpar predicted reliability.
Pros Quiet cabin High-quality interior materials Standard third-row seating
Cons Poor reliability rating Underpowered engine Rough ride Few standard features
