With automobile technology advancing rapidly, the SUV market is brimming with options. Every year, automakers introduce new cars with innovative safety features to the public, hoping to gain a foothold in an increasingly competitive market. For the 2023 model year, one SUV stands out for its superior safety features.

According to U.S. News, the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander earned the top spot as the safest SUV on the market. But despite this honor, the Outlander still isn’t as popular as other SUVs in its class. Here is an insight into why the Outlander is the safest SUV of 2023 and why it is worth considering despite its lukewarm reception in the market.

Is the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander worth its safety ranking?

The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander is a four-door small SUV with a roomy interior accommodating seven passengers and plenty of cargo space. Its standard engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 181 hp and boasts a fuel economy of up to 31 mpg on the highway. While the engine lacks the power of some of its rivals, it makes up for its superior safety features.

The Outlander is loaded with collision-avoidance technology to keep you and your passengers safe on the road. It earned a five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety named it a Top Safety Pick+, its highest accolade. The Outlander was rated “Good” in all six IIHS crash tests and received a “Superior” rating for its front crash prevention system.

According to U.S. News, the 2023 Outlander offers a range of standard driver-assistance features such as automatic high-beam headlights, blind-spot monitoring, lane-change assist, driver-attention monitoring, forward collision warning, and emergency braking.

It also offers optional safety features such as stop-and-go adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, lane-centering assist, and traffic sign recognition.

Why isn’t the safest SUV of 2023 more popular?

The 2023 Outlander was the best-selling Mitsubishi model in the North American market, selling just under 25,000 units halfway through the year. Despite being the most popular choice within the brand, the Outlander is still underperforming compared to its rivals.

This can be attributed to various factors, including outdated styling and limited interior space. Additionally, many potential owners may be turned off by its lack of power compared to other SUVs in its class.

Mitsubishi hopes to turn the tide in its favor with various initiatives designed to expand its appeal. The brand has invested heavily in online sales, allowing it to reach new markets with limited dealership penetration.

It has also cut U.S. incentives by more than half from historical levels thanks to the positive reaction to the launch of its second-generation Outlander.

Is the 2023 Outlander worth considering?

Despite its lack of popularity, the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander is still a great option to consider for anyone looking for a family-friendly SUV with excellent safety features. Its robust suite of collision avoidance technology and superior crash test ratings make it a top choice for those who prioritize safety above all else.

Additionally, the Outlander’s impressive fuel economy and affordable price tag make it an attractive option for budget-minded buyers. While its lack of power and cramped third-row seats may be a turn-off for some, the Outlander’s impressive safety credentials make it well worth considering.

The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander proves that just because a car isn’t popular doesn’t mean it isn’t worth considering. Overall, the Outlander is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a safe and reliable family-friendly SUV.