The small-crossover segment is one of the most contested corners of the automotive world right now, with new and improved models continuously attempting to one-up each other. Against this kind of field, the four-cylinder Outlander just doesn't have what it takes, though the optional V-6 offers more competitive performance.

While the four-cylinder model does have some good qualities, like nice steering and a large backseat, there's just not enough good stuff here to recommend it ahead of competitors like the Equinox and Rogue, among others. It's time for Mitsubishi to head back to the drawing board and come back with its own world-beater, because the Outlander isn't it.