The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander is struggling against its competitors. U.S. News ranked it 15th against other compact SUVs with a score of 6.2 of 10. The Mitsubishi Outlander scored a 9.0 in safety but only 5.8 for interior and 5.6 for performance. A J.D. Power reliability rating of 2.5 of 5 further detracted from the overall score as well.

The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander

The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander is available with a starting MSRP of $24,895. It has a fuel economy rating of 20-25 mpg in the city and 27-30 mpg on the highway. It also has a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty. Mitsubishi claims the Outlander is “built for families, road-trips” and “style.” But U.S. News found deficiencies in power, ride, handling, interior comfort, and predicted reliability.

For 2020, the Mitsubishi Outlander is available in six trim levels including ES, SE, LE, SP, SEL, and GT. Overall, the Outlander is 184.8 inches long, 71.3 inches wide, and 67.3 inches tall. The GT trim is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 that makes 224 hp and 215 lb-ft of torque and is backed by a six-speed electronic automatic transmission.

All other trims come standard with a 2.4-liter inline-four-cylinder producing 166 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The four-cylinder runs on regular unleaded gasoline, but Mitsubishi recommends premium unleaded for the V6.

All Mitsubishi Outlander trim levels are equipped with a third-row seat that allows seating for up to seven, but the ES trim offers very few options above what is expected at a base level. The SE trim level costs an additional $1,200 over ES trim and offers an improved set of features such as automatic headlights, driver-assist safety systems, fog lights, rain-sensing front wipers, eight-way power-adjustable front seats, and Apple CarPlay. Buyers interested in the best that Mitsubishi Outlander has to offer should consider the GT version with the 3.0-liter V6, six-speed automatic, and all-wheel drive starting at $33,745.

What are the benefits of Apple CarPlay?

Apple CarPlay allows drivers to utilize some features of their iPhone using their vehicle’s control knobs, touchscreens, or even the driver’s voice without taking their eyes off the road. It is compatible with every iPhone model from the iPhone 5 and newer.

Apple Maps will display on your car’s infotainment screen via Apple CarPlay. Apple Maps feature a detailed 3D map screen, turn-by-turn directions, and the ability to navigate to addresses from your email, text messages, contacts, and calendars. Apple Maps remembers your go-to spots, and you can create a list of must-see destinations accessible by a single tap or voice command allowing you to explore and reach destinations safely and efficiently.

Voice-controlled phone access allows you to make or return calls as well as listen to voicemail. If texting is your thing, just ask your phone to read your text messages to you or send someone a text complete with proper punctuation. Curious about the weather later in the day or tomorrow? Ask your phone. Want to listen to music, podcasts, or an audiobook? That’s right, ask your phone. Access to your calendar to set reminders, get details of appointments, or cancel entries is all available by voice command.

Is Apple CarPlay available in any other base SUV models?

The 2020 Kia Sportage offers Apple CarPlay in its base model LX trim starting at $23,990. The Sportage placed third in the U.S. News rankings, with notes on good ride quality, refined handling characteristics, a simple infotainment system, and a comfortable cabin with quality materials.

Another option is the fourth place 2020 Chevrolet Equinox L. The L trim starts at $24,995 and offers good fuel economy, precise handling, intuitive infotainment, and a high predicted reliability rating.