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
The 2016 Kia Sorento grows a little bit larger, and grows up a lot.Though the Kia Sorento has been completely redesigned and re-engineered for 2016, it looks like the exterior only modestly evolved. The 2016 model is both significantly roomier and more refined in nearly every way. There’s some meaningful change all around the 2016 Kia Sorento actually, with every bit of sheet metal and every piece of trim changed. A new body structure, an available turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, and redesigned seating—plus some new active-safety features—add up to tremendously meaningful change once you take it all in.
Pros Composed, quiet ride Responsive, economical new 2.0T Impressive interior trims Tight, "vault-like" feel
Cons Short, bench-like second-row seats Third row not available with turbo four Limited availability of active safety features
The Kia Sorento is fully redesigned for 2016 and ranks in the middle among midsize SUVs based on the professional reviews and data that drive our rankings. Professional automotive critics generally agree that the Sorento has an appealing mix of interior comfort and technology, but its base engine is underpowered. It also gets excellent safety ratings within its class.
Pros Accurate steering and composed handling Premium cabin materials Zippy engine options Lots of available safety features
Cons Weak base engine Price can climb quickly
The Kia Sorento is bigger, more sophisticated and better to drive for 2016, making it an appealing alternative to five- and seven-passenger SUVs that were previously a class above it. Kia's midsize crossover is definitely worth a long look.
pros User-friendly controls Well-made and attractive cabin Versatile second-row seat Ample features for the money Long warranty Excellent crash test scores.
cons Turbo engine isn't as punchy and efficient as expected Less spacious than most seven-passenger competitors.
