It’s not every day you step into a seven-seater SUV that feels more premium than its price tag suggests – especially when that tag has just dipped below the AED 100,000 mark. Starting at prices from AED 99,995, the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander represents tempting value for UAE drivers and fleet buyers alike.
When T&FME was handed the keys for a weekend test drive, we were curious: could this now sub-100k SUV really tick the boxes for comfort, performance, practicality – and fleet viability?
The short answer? Absolutely.
First impressions: assertive, but not over the top
At first glance, the Outlander makes a confident impression. Mitsubishi’s ‘Dynamic Shield’ front grille is bold without being aggressive, and the updated LED headlights and sculpted body lines give it a sleeker, more aerodynamic profile than previous generations. Our test model, finished in a sharp metallic grey, sat on 20-inch alloy wheels that added a nice touch of athleticism.
Sliding into the cabin, it was immediately clear that Mitsubishi has taken a leap forward in terms of interior quality. Soft-touch materials, well-contoured seats, and an intuitive centre console layout greeted us. The stitched detailing on the dash and doors added to the upmarket feel – not something you’d expect at this price point.
On the road: smooth and sure-footed
Our route took us from Sheikh Zayed Road into the more open stretches beyond Bottom-of-the-Stick on Al Qudra and into the desert. The Outlander’s 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, paired with an 8-speed CVT, was responsive enough for city cruising and had more than enough grunt for overtaking. It’s not the quickest SUV in its segment, but it felt stable and composed enough – especially during some spirited stretches.
The outright pouty-lipped raw performance could disappoint some, but its weaknesses are actual strengths for fleet buyers, and the Outlander really impressed with its ride comfort and low noise levels. Really this is a vehicle you can be happy to drive for hours. The suspension soaked up bumps with surprising grace, and the cabin remained quiet even at higher speeds. Steering was light but accurate – ideal for navigating tight parking spaces or tackling Sharjah’s traffic snarls.
Family-friendly – and fleet-ready?
With three rows of seating, the Outlander isn’t just about getting from A to B – it’s about doing it with people in tow. The second row offers ample legroom, and the third row, while best reserved for children or shorter journeys, adds valuable flexibility. Fold down both rows, and you’ve got a spacious flat cargo area that easily handled our camera gear, bags and even a foldable bike.
Mitsubishi’s infotainment system features a responsive 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support – both seamlessly integrated during our drive. Dual-zone climate control kept everyone cool, and rear-seat vents were a welcome feature in the June heat.
For fleet operators, these features are more than creature comforts – they’re practical essentials that can help keep drivers focused, passengers content, and total cost of ownership in check.
Safety and support where it counts
The 2025 Outlander doesn’t cut corners on safety, either. Standard features include Forward Collision Mitigation, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert – tech that gives both drivers and fleet managers peace of mind.
Speaking of peace of mind, Habtoor Motors – Mitsubishi’s official distributor in the UAE – is making a serious push in the fleet space. Through its Fleet & Business programme, Habtoor offers flexible purchase solutions, comprehensive aftersales support, and a dedicated account manager to oversee everything from service intervals to fleet health.
That kind of service can make a real difference for corporate buyers, particularly in industries where uptime is critical and cost efficiency drives decision-making.
Verdict: a savvy, segment-smart SUV
The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander may not wear a luxury badge, but it delivers a driving experience that punches well above its weight. For just under AED 100,000, you get a well-equipped, family- and fleet-friendly SUV backed by one of the region’s most established dealership networks.
For individuals, it’s a compelling personal car. For fleet buyers, it’s a strategic investment. And after a full week of driving through urban traffic, open roads and even a short off-road trail we handed back the keys feeling one thing above all: impressed.
