Club Benefits
Three-row SUVs are increasingly becoming popular, but the biggest drawback is that they’re often obnoxiously overpriced and terribly inefficient. And did I mention they’re also some of the most challenging to operate because of their size? Yet, the Mitsubishi Outlander stands as an exception.
That’s because this compact crossover SUV doesn’t just cram in a third row to offer seating up to seven passengers; it’s also the most fuel-efficient 3-row SUV I’ve tested all year. What makes it even more appealing is the $47,235 as-tested price for the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL 1.5T S-AWC trim I specifically drove for a week.
Even though it’s not as elaborate-looking as the Buick Enclave, nor is it as spacious as the Hyundai Palisade, I think the Mitsubishi Outlander makes the appropriate compromises to make it way more attainable for most people. Here’s why.
It starts at under $30,000
It starts at under $30,000
Honestly, I can’t believe that the base trim comes in at under $30,000 — which still manages to pack in third-row seating. For those who want to maximize their budget, it’s one to consider even if it does come with just the basics. I’m talking about a spartan interior, smaller 7-inch driver’s display, and way fewer assistance features. But it still manages to pack the same 1.5L 4-cylinder turbo direct-injection engine that comes standard across all trims.
Despite costing more, the SEL 1.5T S-AWC trim does come with conveniences that justify its higher price. Specifically, it comes with a head-up display, larger 12.3-inch driver’s display, panoramic sunroof, digital rearview mirror, powered liftgate, adaptive cruise control, and more. The extra cost also gives you leather seats that make it look premium.
All of those extras really make a difference by making the cabin feel less spartan and more modern. I’m particularly pleased by its adaptive cruise control. Much like systems I’ve tested in other SUVs, it helps guide the wheel, applies all necessary braking and acceleration to maintain a safe cruising speed, and keeps the vehicle centered in the lane.
Ditches the stereotype that 3-row SUVs are gas guzzlers
| Header Cell - Column 0 | 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL 1.5T S-AWC | 2026 Buick Enclave Avenir AWD | 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT PRO |
|---|---|---|---|
Price tested | $47,235 | $67,935 | $51,610 |
Total miles driven | 200.5 miles | 138.5 miles | 115.5 miles |
Average Fuel Economy | 27 mpg | 22.3 mpg | 16.7 mpg |
Best short distance fuel economy | 25.2 mpg | 21.8 mpg | 21.1 mpg |
Best long distance fuel economy | 29.8 mpg | 28.1 mpg | 20.5 mpg |
Although it’s technically not a hybrid, the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL 1.5T S-AWC acts like one thanks to its impressive efficiency. I clocked a total of 200.5 miles during my week of testing and averaged a combined 27 mpg. That easily beats the 22.3 mpg and dismal 16.7 mpg I saw from the Buick Enclave and Hyundai Palisade, respectively.
The only other 3-row SUV I’ve tested this year that comes close to the Outlander’s efficiency is the Toyota Grand Highlander. However, it’s worth noting that the Grand Highlander is a much larger, midsize SUV with a true hybrid powertrain — and it carries a significantly higher price tag for comparable trims.
I’m equally impressed by the Outlander’s highway fuel economy. During a long-distance road test that was predominantly highway miles, I averaged 29.8 mpg. Sure, a dedicated hybrid engine would push those numbers even higher, but when you factor in the Outlander's lower upfront cost, it's a trade-off that's easy to live with.
Way more utility than the average crossover
The beauty of a crossover SUV is that it retains the utility people love about traditional SUVs, but drives with the ease of a sedan. After spending a week behind the wheel of the Outlander, it’s clear to me that the market needs more compact crossovers with third-row seating.
While the third-row bench is incredibly cramped in terms of legroom — meaning you'll want to reserve it strictly for children — I still love the utility of having those extra seats when you're in a pinch. When you don't need them, they fold perfectly flat to clear the way for extra trunk space.
On the flip side, the Outlander's 174-horsepower engine won’t win any awards for straight-line speed, even when you switch the drive mode dial over to Sport. Ultimately, the tight third row and modest acceleration are the two main trade-offs you’ll need to mull over.
Mitsubishi definitely has something compelling on its hands with the Outlander, mainly because it delivers a legitimate three-row crossover without breaking the bank. As the brand works to recapture its glory days, this vehicle serves as a strong step in the right direction — and much like Buick's recent turnaround, it could slowly be rewriting the script.
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