2012 Mitsubishi Outlander: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander is a light-update model, led by a new ECO driving indicator across the lineup. It is not a redesign, though Mitsubishi also adjusted the trim and drivetrain mix.
About the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander
2nd generation (2007-2013), after the 2010 styling update; 2012 is a late-cycle year and the second-to-last US model year before the all-new 2014 redesign.
Mitsubishi positions the 2012 Outlander as a sporty-looking family crossover with more attitude than a typical small SUV. The OEM leans on its aggressive front-end design, roomy cabin with up to seven-passenger seating on upper trims, distinctive two-piece tailgate, and traction-focused all-wheel-drive systems. Versus rivals, the Outlander’s pitch is practical family use with a slightly more athletic feel, not luxury-first softness.
The ES is the value-focused, five-seat model, with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a useful two-piece tailgate. The SE adds a small third-row seat, 18-inch alloy wheels, and keyless entry and starting, while the GT tops the range with a 230-horsepower V6, xenon headlights, and automatic climate control.
What changed, by category
2012 Mitsubishi Outlander specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter | V6, 3.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, CVT w/Sportronic | Auto, 6-Spd w/Sportronic | Auto, CVT w/Sportronic |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 23 mpg | 19 mpg | 23 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28 mpg | 26 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 168 hp | 230 hp | 168 hp |
| Torque | 167 lb-ft | 215 lb-ft | 167 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1500 lb | 3500 lb | 1500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 72.6 cu-ft | 72.6 cu-ft | 72.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 39.6 in | 27.7 in | 27.7 in |
| Seats | 5 | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Leveling Headlights | |||
| Hill Start Assist | |||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| HID Headlights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Subwoofer | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Video Input | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander?
The biggest change is a new ECO driving indicator in the gauge cluster on every 2012 Outlander. The rest of the vehicle largely carries over from 2011.
Was the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander redesigned?
No, the 2012 Outlander was not redesigned. It remains part of the second generation introduced for 2007 and follows the styling update made for 2010.
Did the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander trim lineup change?
Yes. The XLS trim was dropped, and Mitsubishi added a two-wheel-drive version of the V6-powered GT alongside the GT with S-AWC all-wheel drive.
Which 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander trims have a third-row seat?
The 2012 Outlander SE and GT have an underfloor-stowable third-row seat. The value-focused ES is a five-seat model.
Is the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander meaningfully different from the 2011 model?
No, the differences are modest. The 2012 model adds the ECO indicator and 50-state Low Emission Vehicle certification, revises the trim and GT drivetrain mix, and gives the ES a new wheel-cover design.