The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV finishes near the bottom of our hybrid and electric SUV rankings. It’s outdated and less comfortable than rivals, and in a real “you had one job” scenario, its fuel economy ratings aren’t even that impressive.
Pros Decent cargo capacity Excellent warranty
Cons Looks and feels antiquated in almost every aspect Low-rent interior Below-average fuel economy ratings compared to other PHEVs Disappointing powertrain, handling, and ride quality
Mitsubishi has already revealed the next-generation Outlander, but it has still introduced several significant changes to the outgoing one for the 2021 model year. Most notably, the Outlander lineup is now only available with a plug-in-hybrid powertrain. Gone are the base four-cylinder engine and available V-6. A third row of seats is also gone because it's not compatible with the location of the PHEV's battery pack. The latter now has a larger capacity than before and offers more all-electric driving range (24 miles versus 22), and the PHEV's top speed increases from 79 to 83 mph during all-electric operation. The plug-in's old 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is replaced with a more powerful 2.4-liter version. And now with a bigger rear-mounted electric motor, the PHEV's combined horsepower increases by 31 to 221 horses total.
Pros Plug-in-hybrid powertrain feels responsive, adjustable regenerative-braking settings, substantial cargo space.
Cons No longer offers a third row, considerably more expensive than before, other plug-in hybrids are much more efficient.
For 2021 New battery pack offers more electric range than last year's model.Updated software reduces vibrations and noise from the engine.Limited Edition trim introduced with more standard features.
Pros Generous list of standard features Plug-in hybrid powertrain provides about 24 miles of all-electric range Standard all-wheel drive for enhanced traction on slippery surfaces
Cons Poor cabin quality with lots of creaks and rattles Weak acceleration and vague steering make for a bad driving experience It doesn't offer a third row like the regular Mitsubishi Outlander Small gas tank limits overall range
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is unranked in Midsize SUVs due to missing safety data. Currently, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L's overall score is not available, though its Critics' Rating, Performance score, and Interior score are based on our evaluation of 8 pieces of research and data.
Pros Impressive off-road ability Cushioned ride Well-crafted interior Roomy, comfortable seats in all three rows
Cons Some rivals are more agile
The Grand Cherokee L is all-new for 2021.Three rows of seating.Interior filled with modern, premium touches and tech features.Kicks off the fifth Grand Cherokee generation for 2021.
Pros Impressive list of standard and optional advanced driver aids Unibody construction brings much-needed refinement Handsome interior design Better off-road capability than most SUVs
Cons Base V6 engine provides underwhelming acceleration
This year marks the beginning of a new generation of Grand Cherokee with the arrival of the three-row L model. It makes its debut before the updated two-row Grand Cherokee (reviewed separately), which will switch to this new design for 2022. A 4Xe plug-in hybrid model is likely coming for the 2022 model year.
Pros Deluxe cabin environs, plenty of off-road capability, room for up to seven riders.
Cons Base V-6 not as refined as optional V-8, awkward proportions on smaller diameter wheels, most desirable models are pricey.
