The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV finishes near the bottom of our hybrid and electric SUV rankings. It’s outdated and less comfortable than rivals, and in a real “you had one job” scenario, its fuel economy ratings aren’t even that impressive.
Pros Decent cargo capacity Excellent warranty
Cons Looks and feels antiquated in almost every aspect Low-rent interior Below-average fuel economy ratings compared to other PHEVs Disappointing powertrain, handling, and ride quality
Mitsubishi has already revealed the next-generation Outlander, but it has still introduced several significant changes to the outgoing one for the 2021 model year. Most notably, the Outlander lineup is now only available with a plug-in-hybrid powertrain. Gone are the base four-cylinder engine and available V-6. A third row of seats is also gone because it's not compatible with the location of the PHEV's battery pack. The latter now has a larger capacity than before and offers more all-electric driving range (24 miles versus 22), and the PHEV's top speed increases from 79 to 83 mph during all-electric operation. The plug-in's old 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is replaced with a more powerful 2.4-liter version. And now with a bigger rear-mounted electric motor, the PHEV's combined horsepower increases by 31 to 221 horses total.
Pros Plug-in-hybrid powertrain feels responsive, adjustable regenerative-braking settings, substantial cargo space.
Cons No longer offers a third row, considerably more expensive than before, other plug-in hybrids are much more efficient.
For 2021 New battery pack offers more electric range than last year's model.Updated software reduces vibrations and noise from the engine.Limited Edition trim introduced with more standard features.
Pros Generous list of standard features Plug-in hybrid powertrain provides about 24 miles of all-electric range Standard all-wheel drive for enhanced traction on slippery surfaces
Cons Poor cabin quality with lots of creaks and rattles Weak acceleration and vague steering make for a bad driving experience It doesn't offer a third row like the regular Mitsubishi Outlander Small gas tank limits overall range
Pros Plenty of cargo space Upscale interior design and materials Distinctive styling and paint color choices add personality
Cons Front seats aren't very comfortable for long drives Less than athletic handling
For the Seltos's sophomore year, it gains a host of driver-assistance features as standard, including automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high-beam headlamps. The larger 10.3-inch infotainment screen is now standard on more of the Seltos's trim levels, and all but the LX trim now come with automatic climate control and remote start; the top-spec SX receives a flat-bottomed steering wheel and a new Plum interior color scheme. The Nightfall Edition is new to the lineup this year and features unique black-painted 18-inch aluminum wheels and blacked-out exterior trim.
Pros Roomier cabin than other subcompact SUVs, slick infotainment features, engaging driving dynamics.
Cons Stiff-legged ride over bumpy surfaces, optional seven-speed automatic occasionally stumbles, base powertrain could use some refinement.
It is a finalist for our 2022 Best Subcompact SUV for the Money award. Currently the Kia Seltos has a score of 8.2 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 25 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Huge cargo hold Spacious seats Straightforward infotainment controls Great gas mileage
Cons Meager base engine Less agile than rivals
