2026 Mitsubishi Lineup Updates: Outlander Scores New Mild-Hybrid Powertrain

Updates arrive for most of the Mitsubishi lineup, but it’s curtains for one the last truly affordable cars.Bob HernandezWriter

MotorTrend StaffPhotographerManufacturerPhotographerRyan LugoIllustrator

Sep 23, 2025

The next model year brings a handful of updates and surprises to Mitsubishi’s lineup. As some models get fresh power or new features, others quietly fade from the roster. Keep reading to find out what’s new for 2026.

2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Mitsubishi keeps updates light for its larger subcompact SUV this year. SEL and SEL Touring trims now wear Eclipse Cross badging across the hood, and built-in navigation—once available on SE and higher—has been dropped. The Eclipse Cross first launched in 2018 and refreshed in 2022 with sharper styling and a retuned suspension.

MotorTrend Ranked: #16 in subcompact SUVs (2026 model).

Read Our Experts’ Full Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Review

2026 Mitsubishi Outlander

The 2026 Outlander SUV gets a major update under the hood with a new mild hybrid setup that pairs a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with an electric motor. Mitsubishi hasn’t confirmed output, but it’s expected to at least match the outgoing 2.5-liter’s 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque.

The trim lineup also shifts this year, highlighted by the range-topping SEL Black Edition and the return of the Ralliart, a new midlevel LE slotting between ES and SE. The Trail Edition introduced last year sticks around, too.

MotorTrend Ranked: #9 in compact SUVs (2025 model).

Read Our Experts’ Full Mitsubishi Outlander Review

2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid

The Outlander Hybrid adds a few comfort and tech updates. Heated front seats are now standard across the lineup, and the SEL trim gains a heated steering wheel and a panoramic sunroof. Buyers also receive complimentary connected services, including a five-year trial of Safeguard vehicle support and a 12-month trial of Mitsubishi’s Remote Services. The SE Black Edition trim has been dropped for 2026.

MotorTrend Ranked: #4 in compact plug-in hybrid SUVs (2025 model).

Read Our Experts’ Full Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid Review

2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

The Outlander Sport carries over into 2026 without changes. Although it received a refresh in 2020, the compact SUV hasn’t scored a full redesign since its 2011 debut. Its most recent updates came in 2024, when Mitsubishi introduced a Trail Edition, complimentary limited maintenance, a new SEL trim, and a rear seat alert, all of which continue for 2026.

MotorTrend Ranked: Unranked in subcompact SUVs (2025 model).

Read Our Experts’ Full Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Review

Mitsubishi Mirage

The Mirage bowed out after the 2024 model year, though remaining inventory lingered into 2025. Long known as one of the market’s most affordable new cars, it earned praise for its excellent fuel economy and low entry price, but sluggish acceleration and unrefined driving dynamics held it back. With no cost-effective path to electrification, the automaker ultimately chose to retire the model, which means it’s all SUVs for Mitsubishi for 2026.

Read Our Experts’ Full Mitsubishi Mirage Review

2026 Mitsubishi Lineup: What’s New

• 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: Minor update
• 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander: Significant update
• 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-In Hybrid: Minor update
• 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: Unchanged
• Mitsubishi Mirage: Discontinued