The second-generation Mitsubishi Outlander XL was long considered a benchmark among Japanese mid-size crossovers. At one time, it looked modern, offered a spacious interior and good handling, which made it a hit in the Russian market. Many appreciated it for its reliability and simple design, as it was a car where everything was at hand and without unnecessary electronic gadgets. But years have shown that reality was not as rosy as expected.
According to owner reviews on Auto.ru, the Outlander often evokes conflicting emotions. Some drivers travel hundreds of thousands of kilometers on it without problems and are ready to praise the car for everything, while others rush to get rid of it almost new. One user said that he sold the car with a mileage of only 7000 km, unable to withstand the \"comfort test\". According to him, the Outlander XL turned out to be excessively noisy, harsh and tiring on long trips. On the highway, only loud music saved from the hum, and every bump was felt by the whole body.
Among the complaints are poor sound insulation, unsuccessful ergonomics, unpleasant vibrations and \"wooden\" plastic. After the first trip on a rough road, squeaks and rattles appeared in the cabin. The massive windshield pillars make it difficult to see, which can cause pedestrians to disappear from view. Owners complain that even elementary details, like seat bolts, remained uncovered, and decorative overlays quickly get scratched.
Among the minor but annoying shortcomings are weak button illumination, a quiet turn signal sound, short-lived leather on the steering wheel and seats, poorly located paddle shifters, and an inconvenient spare wheel hidden under the body. Music also causes dissatisfaction: reception deteriorates outside the Moscow Ring Road, and the sound remains muffled even at maximum volume. Some note that during intensive driving, the smell of overheated oil is felt in the cabin, and the multimedia screen glares in the sun.
The main problem that owners unanimously consider is the lack of normal sound insulation. At speeds above 70 km/h, there is a hum in the cabin, as if the windows are wide open. The picture is complemented by high fuel consumption: versions with a three-liter engine consume up to 18 liters per 100 km in the city, and even 2.4-liter units barely fit into 14 liters. In addition, the variator on early cars often kicks and overheats, and its repair after 200 thousand kilometers is expensive.
However, the Outlander XL cannot be called a failed model. Many note its practicality: a spacious trunk with a folding lower section, adjustable rear seats, well-thought-out glove compartments and three-zone climate control create convenience in everyday use. The interior is simple but functional - everything is in its place, without unnecessary electronics, which often fails in competitors.
The crossover feels confident on a dirt road, in snow or on a dirt road - thanks to a ground clearance of 200 mm and an all-wheel drive system. The suspension, although stiff, is strong and can withstand heavy loads. The Outlander is ideal for fishing, trips to the country or country trips. Owners appreciate the reliability of 2.4 and 3.0 engines, especially with regular maintenance, and spare parts for the car are available and inexpensive.
At the same time, you should not expect premium comfort from the crossover. Its philosophy is reliability and endurance, not silence and softness. The seats are flat, the lateral support is weak, and the back hurts after a long trip. The quality of painting leaves much to be desired: the body quickly becomes covered with chips, especially on the arches. Some owners joke that the Outlander is almost a \"tin can\", but it drives stably and is easy to repair.
The Mitsubishi Outlander XL is a reliable but outdated car. It is designed for those who appreciate practicality, cross-country ability and unpretentiousness, but are willing to put up with noise, vibration and ascetic trim. It is suitable for family trips and moderate speeds, but those who like silence and smooth running should look for an alternative.
