SsangYongs have been on sale in the UK since the ’90s – the company usually offers big SUVs for less than the majority of their competitors. Sadly, most of their models have proved to be lacklustre alternatives to the likes of the Kia Sportage, Suzuki Vitara and Nissan Qashqai. To drive, the Korando isn’t much fun, but most people buy one because they need an SUV either for tackling rough terrain or towing – two roles the SsangYong is perfectly suited to.
Pros Lots of space Relatively economical Generous standard kit
Cons Fast depreciation Dull styling Cheap feeling interior
The SsangYong Korando gives you a lot of car for your money – but nowhere near as much as a Dacia Duster.The SsangYong Korando is the brand’s mid-size SUV, pitched as a low-cost rival to the Nissan Qashqai, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage. On the move, the Korando isn’t as stable as a lot of its rivals, either – it tends to wallow about when going around corners and has an uncomfortable ride.
Pros Good value for money Spacious interior Low emissions
Cons Noisy diesel engine Poor-quality plastics Uncomfortable suspension
Not only was it a handsome addition to the compact crossover market, it was also the firm’s very first monocoque model – meaning it delivered a far better approximation of a car’s handling characteristics than any of the body-on-frame SUVs that continue to fill out the firm’s modest lineup. On the plus side, the Korando gets large storage bins, reach and rake adjustment for the steering wheel and generous equipment levels on higher-spec models. It is also competitive on interior space; offering decent leg and headroom for rear passengers, and acceptable luggage space. The interior is slightly less forgettable, but only because it comes partly clad in the kind of cheap plastic which cannot otherwise find a home in this class. The redesigned dashboard makes ergonomic sense, although it hasn’t lost any of its brittleness.
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
