Our Long Term 12-month test of the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV ended with a long list of positive remarks. So, we were stoked for a SoCal First Drive of the updated 2025 Outlander; specifically, the gas-only model.

What greeted us wasn’t a total recalibration. In fact, the exterior remains largely the same: A distinct face now with a revised grille, and slightly restyled lighting elements front and rear, underscored by new wheels.

You’d be forgiven for believing the cosmetic changes to be practically infinitesimal. Interior changes are more apparent, though mostly found in the first of its three rows. The cupholders have been moved, the wireless device charger expanded, and additional storage space added to the center console. Additional sound deadening not only reduces road-noise, but provides a cleaner soundscape for the head-banging Yamaha sound system.

KYLE SCANLON: “I have the ultimate sound system in this trim level with 12 speakers and they describe it as a literal ‘sound box,’ like the subwoofer box that you would put in the back of your cars. And what they’ve done is reinforced the sides, the entire body all-around, to make there be less vibration and better sound quality. So, when I can tell you that if you’re in this car, you are rolling around in a concert hall.”

This personal opera house– or mosh pit, onboard crew dependent– is powered by the same 181-horsepower 2.5-liter inline-four engine. A CVT automatic channels power to the front, though Mitsubishi’s Super-All-Wheel-Control is optional. The power steering system has been sharpened, and the suspension has been re-tuned to match.

A starting price around $31,000 is music to our ears, with a top-trim 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander starting in the mid-forties.

We’ll have more on the updated Outlander and more Quick Spins…soon!