Mitsubishi has introduced a new variant of its popular SUV the 2025 Outlander Trail Edition bringing a rugged look without making substantial off-road upgrades. Marketed as an “off-highway styling and equipment package,” this version is intended to appeal to customers who enjoy an adventurous, outdoor-oriented image, even if their actual driving habits lean more toward paved roads than rocky trails. First revealed during a special event in early 2025, the model is now officially available in the U.S.
Mitsubishi Outlander">
On the outside, the Trail Edition distinguishes itself with extra protective cladding surrounding the wheel arches, lower bumpers, and door panels, all of which enhance its more rugged aesthetic. Black decals are applied to the hood and sides, while a Trail Edition badge sits proudly on the tailgate. Mitsubishi has also darkened several exterior elements such as the mirror caps, door handles, window trim, and the brand’s signature Dynamic Shield grille giving the SUV a stealthier appearance.
Practicality is also a focus, with an optional Thule-branded Caprock roof rack that can be paired with mounts for kayaks, cargo boxes, or hitch-mounted bicycle racks, all available through Mitsubishi dealerships. The Trail Edition rolls on distinctive black 18-inch alloy wheels featuring a basket-weave design, which can be equipped with optional Cooper Discoverer Road+Trail tires for improved grip on loose surfaces.
Inside, the model offers details designed to suit an active lifestyle. All-weather floor mats and a cargo liner carry Trail Edition branding, while the seating surfaces combine synthetic black leather with suede inserts. Comfort features include heated front seats, a power panoramic sunroof, and an eight-speaker Yamaha Dynamic Sound audio system. Other conveniences such as headlight washers, heated windshield wipers, and five USB-C charging ports add to its practicality. Driver assistance comes courtesy of Mitsubishi’s Mi-Pilot Assist suite, which bundles adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping functions, and other safety technologies.
Mechanically, the Trail Edition remains identical to the standard Outlander, aside from the optional all-terrain tires. Power comes from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Mitsubishi’s S-AWC all-wheel-drive system. The suspension setup is unchanged, meaning that while the vehicle can handle gravel roads and light off-pavement excursions, it’s not engineered for serious rock crawling.
For buyers considering long-term ownership, it’s worth noting that 2025 marks the final year the Outlander will be offered with this naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine. The 2026 lineup will feature either a new turbocharged 1.5-liter mild-hybrid powertrain or the recently updated plug-in hybrid system.
Pricing for the 2025 Outlander Trail Edition starts at $39,295, making it $1,360 more than the SE trim on which it is based. Its competitors include other “adventure-styled” crossovers such as the Nissan Rogue Rock Creek Edition, Subaru Forester Wilderness, Honda CR-V TrailSport Hybrid, and Toyota RAV4 Woodland Edition.