Mitsubishi has taken the wraps off its all-new Outlander SUV – the fourth generation of the series.

Expected in Australia later this year, the seven-seater Outlander has undergone a significant overhaul with new styling, an upgraded interior, new functions and features, has a newly developed platform and 2.5-litre engine, updated electronically controlled 4WD and S-AWC (Super-All Wheel Control) system, and a new drive mode selector.

The company says the new platform greatly improves collision safety performance and achieves a high level of steering stability and Mitsubishi has used an ultra-high tensile strength steel sheet with hot stamping around the cabin to create a high-strength cabin structure.

Multi-link suspension and dual pinion electric power steering is designed to achieve high-quality ride comfort and improved feel for the driver.

The company says the newly developed 2.5-litre engine improves maximum output by a claimed 8.9 per cent and fuel efficiency by 2.6 percent over the previous model. An 8-speed sport mode CVT is used for the transmission.

For the 4WD model, electronically controlled 4WD incorporating a hydraulic clutch driven by an electric motor is used in the center-coupling device that conducts front and rear torque distribution.

There are six drive modes for 4WD models and five modes for 2WD models. Modes are: Eco, Normal, Tarmac, Gravel, Snow, with the 4WD getting the extra Mud mode.

On the inside, colour variations for the Premium-level vehicle feature genuine leather seats of light gray and black. The instrument panel and door trim are the same colour, and aluminium is used in the shift panel. Saddle tan accent colour and semi-aniline leather seats are also available as an option for the Premium-Line. The Mid-range vehicle features black suede combination seats and piano black interior material, while the Standard vehicle offers light gray or black fabric material seats and piano black interior material.

Features include seat heaters, 3-zone automatic climate control, and rear door sunshades are available depending on the trim level.

Display screens and gauge cluster options depend on trim level choice and include a 12.3-inch instrument display, a 9-inch screen used for the centre display, a 7-inch multi-information display, and a 10.8-inch Head-Up Display (HUD).
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are available, and a BOSE premium sound system is too. The centre console tray has a wireless phone charging function, and USB charging ports Types C and A are provided, respectively, on the front and back of the centre console.

Advanced driver-assistance system and safety features include Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Keep Assist (LKA), speed sign recognition, autonomous emergency braking, hill descent control and driver attention alert. A front centre airbag for the driver’s seat and side airbags for the second-row seats are standard, and a total of 11 airbags are installed.

Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (March 2021)

5 April 2021