Talking Cars 499: Driving the Mitsubishi Outlander

Main theme: In this podcast episode, we give our first impressions of the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander. The biggest change for the Outlander, which shares its platform with the Nissan Rogue, is the swap from the previous 181-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (also with a CVT) that makes 174 hp.

Of note, the new powertrain is a 48-volt "mild hybrid." Instead of a traditional alternator, this setup uses an integrated starter generator, which allows the gas engine to turn off while coasting, helps the auto stop/start system keep the engine off longer at stop lights, and typically makes the auto stop/start system feel more seamless when it restarts the engine. 

Our panelists take viewers and listeners on a deep dive into how well the all-new powertrain works, discuss how the Outlander’s updated steering and suspension tuning affect its ride and handling, and talk about just how useful the tiny third-row seat really is. Or isn’t. 

Audience question: Can short commutes when driving mostly at slow speeds harm a hybrid’s gasoline engine? It would seem like this could be a problem if the gas engine never has time to properly warm up. Can this type of driving hurt the hybrid’s longevity?