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 It’s outdated and less comfortable than rivals, and in a real “you had one job” scenario, its fuel economy ratings aren’t even that impressive.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
New TRD Sport trim level.
Pros Impressive off-road capability Wide variety of configurations to suit many buyers Versatile cargo area, especially with the optional slide-out floor
Cons Choppy ride quality compared with more modern crossover SUVs V6 engine is not particularly fuel-efficient Tall step-in height makes for awkward entry and exit
For 2022, the 4Runner family welcomes a new TRD Sport model, which for the longest time has only been offered on its pickup counterpart, the Toyota Tacoma. The 4Runner TRD Sport isn't as sporty as its 20-inch wheels, hood scoop, and Sport badges suggest, but unlike most other models except for the more luxurious Limited, it features adaptive dampers that are designed to improve body control. Inside, the TRD Sport features faux-leather upholstery instead of cloth. All 2022 4Runners now illuminate the road with LED high-beams.
Pros Actually able to excel off-road, packed with standard driver-assistance tech, inside boasts generous passenger and cargo space.
Cons Fuel economy isn't great, interior materials are unimpressive, not nearly as refined as newer mid-size SUVs.
The 2022 Toyota 4Runner's #19 ranking is based on its score within the Midsize SUVs category. Currently the Toyota 4Runner has a score of 7.1 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 67 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Great off-road ability
Good cargo capacity Two rows of spacious, comfortable seats Intuitive infotainment features
Cons Slow acceleration Rough ride Antiquated, low-rent interior Poor gas mileage
