Mitsubishi Outlander IV (2021–2025) (2021 – 2025)

Reliability score : 8.6/10

The fourth-generation Mitsubishi Outlander (GN) marks a complete break from its predecessor. Based on the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance's CMF-CD platform (shared with the Nissan Rogue/X-Trail T33), it makes a spectacular leap in perceived quality, spaciousness, and onboard technology. While North America and Oceania initially received a Nissan-sourced naturally aspirated gasoline engine, it is the PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) version that forms the global core of the range and marks the model's return to Europe in late 2024. This PHEV version retains the robust 2.4L (4B12) engine from the previous generation, but combines it with more powerful electric motors (85 kW front, 100 kW rear) and a significantly larger battery (20 kWh vs. 13.8 kWh), offering a real-world electric r

✅ Strengths

Extremely mature and reliable PHEV system (Gen 3 heritage)
Excellent real-world electric range (20 kWh battery)
Highly effective S-AWC all-wheel drive on snow/dirt
Spectacular increase in interior finish quality (materials, assembly)
Spaciousness and possibility of 7 seats (depending on markets/versions)
Often generous manufacturer warranty (up to 5 or 8 years depending on country)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Noisy internal combustion engine under strong acceleration (e-CVT 'rubber band' effect)
High fuel consumption with empty battery (often > 8 L/100 km on highway)
Infotainment system (Nissan-sourced) sometimes slow and prone to bugs
Very high weight of the PHEV version (over 2.1 tons)
Third row of seats (7-seater) purely symbolic (children only)

🎯 Verdict

The Mitsubishi Outlander IV is an excellent choice, particularly in its PHEV version. By partnering with Nissan for the chassis and interior, Mitsubishi has corrected the main flaws of the previous generation (dated finish, average soundproofing) while retaining what it does best: its plug-in hybrid powertrain and S-AWC transmission. Mechanical reliability is excellent, with the 2.4L engine being indestructible. The only real pitfalls concern early electronic bugs (infotainment) and high fuel consumption on the highway once the battery is depleted. It is a highly recommendable purchase for families who can charge daily.