Mitsubishi's crossover SUV received an update in 2017, redesigning the front end to bring it in line with the new Mitsubishi design language and with it, brought a refresh of the interior as well.
With technology progressing as quickly as it does, the original infotainment system was in a dire need of an update. Thankfully this was one of the areas addressed in the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander facelift.
Related: 5 Extras you should fit to your new Mitsubishi Outlander
Here's how the most recent Mitsubishi Outlander fares against the Hyundai Santa Fe and KIA Sorento when it comes to infotainment prowess.
Mitsubishi Outlander
Our rating: 2/5
One of the concerns with the infotainment in the original release of the third generation Outlander was the lack of physical interface which necessitated shifting your gaze away from the road in order to locate the necessary touchscreen controls. This has been rectified and in the updated infotainment system you will now get two rotary dials for seek and volume control with a bank of 8 push buttons for shortcut functions.
This system, despite featuring a small touchscreen, does include CD capabilities. It is without Apple CarPlay and Android Auto but allows for Bluetooth, USB and AUX connectivity. Rear passengers are treated to a 9-inch flip-down screen with DVD capabilities. Audio can be plumbed through the impressive Rockford Fosgate audio system with 710 watt 8-channel amplifier or viewers can opt for wired headsets.
Despite its somewhat limited capabilities, the Outlander does feature a reverse camera display and audio control on the multi-function steering wheel.
KIA Sorento
Our rating: 4/5
The stately KIA Sorento joins the infotainment party with an 8-inch touchscreen interface with a clean and clear monochrome-themed layout. This system is devoid of CD capabilities but does feature smartphone tethering with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additional input in the form of USB, AUX and Bluetooth allow for effortless audio streaming through the 6-speaker audio system.
The Sorento benefits from included onboard satellite navigation and a selection of input methods. Two rotary dials handle tuning and volume/power control with eight pushbuttons further allowing access to frequently accessed functions and shortcuts. A multi-function steering wheel with audio controls allows for quick control of basic functions.
Hyundai Santa Fe
Our rating: 3.5/5
The Hyundai Santa Fe does not share the exact same system as the KIA Sorento and has to make do with a slightly smaller 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
Despite its smaller size it still offers high-end functionality with screen mirroring via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Further input comes in the form of Bluetooth, USB and AUX connectivity but is also devoid of CD playing functionality.
Interaction with the interface is via the touchscreen, the two rotary dial, six pushbuttons for shortcuts or basic controls on the multi-function steering wheel.
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