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Mitsubishi's new compact AWD wagon, the Outlander, adds a distinctive style and flexibility into what is becoming a very competitive market segment.
Launched in Japan as the Airtrek in June 2001 with a more conservatively designed front end, Outlander made its initial debut in its current guise at the New York International Motor Show in March 2002. It is being launched into Australia with two price-lines - the entry level LS, and the sporty XLS.
Powered by a 2.4 litre SOHC 'Balance Shaft' 16-valve electronically injected four-cylinder engine, Outlander is a constant AWD wagon that uses a Viscous Coupling Unit to distribute the drive to all four wheels. Maximum power of 100kW is developed at 5000 rpm, while maximum torque of 205Nm is developed at 2500 rpm.
Transmission is Mitsubishi's acclaimed INVECS II 'Smart Logic' four-speed automatic transmission with 'Sports Mode' tiptronic-style manual mode.
Suspension is MacPherson strut front end with anti-sway bar, and multi-link with trailing arm and anti-sway bar rear. This set-up not only gives Outlander the edge over its competitors on sealed roads, but also is much more stable and comfortable on unsealed roads.
Outlander boasts a host of integrated safety features: car-like monocoque body construction, standard driver and passenger front air bags. and ELP lap-sash seatbelts. Brakes are 15" (wheel) ventilated disc brakes at the front, with 9" drums brakes at the rear. Standard on XLS and optional on LS are side SRS airbags - integrated into the front seats. Outlander is the only vehicle in its class to feature side airbags. A 3-channel, 4-sensor ABS brake system with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) is standard on the sporty XLS model (optional on LS) and provides skid-free emergency braking regardless of vehicle load or road conditions.
With the longest overall length, width and wheelbase in its class, Outlander has been specifically designed to present an aggressive but stylishly modern appearance that sets it apart from the usual "me-too" small SUVs. The look is enhanced by Outlander's flared wheel arches, 16" wheels and tyres, unique front-end design and stylish tail lamps.
Inside, Outlander has a modern retro look, with a twin-dial instrument layout that takes its motif from aero instrumentation. The centre dash panel houses the in-dash gearshift lever for improved ergonomics, and provides the interior with a sense of space.
A host of utility features and ample space for storage adds to, and enhances, occupant comfort and enjoyment.
The 60:40 split-fold second row seat gives a number of options for cargo carrying and encompasses a large armrest with cup-holders.
Folding the seatback down expands the size of the luggage compartment, and the lack of any step in the floor makes it much easier and more convenient to use. Reclining the front passenger seat, and removing the head restraint, produces a cavernous flat-floor luggage space capable of carrying items up to 2.4 metres in length.
The seating hip point has been carefully calculated to allow for easy entry and exit.
Outlander comes with a host of standard features.
The entry level LS gets power steering, power windows, power mirrors and rear tailgate lock; remote keyless entry; air conditioning; cruise control; full instrumentation; dual SRS airbags; front lap sash belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters; lap sash seat belts to all other seating positions; AM/FM radio with CD and four-speaker audio unit; illuminated glove-box; 2-speed front wipers with variable intermittent setting; rear wiper with intermittent setting; rear window demister; integrated rear roof spoiler with high-mounted stop lamp, and full wheel covers on 16" steel wheels shod with 215/60-16 tyres.
The sporty XLS models gets all the above features and adds attractive 5-spoke 16" alloys; front fog lamps; tube-style roof rails; body-coloured external mirrors and door handles; clear tail lamp lenses; white faced instrumentation and clock; side airbags integrated into the front seats; leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift lever; interior trim highlights; 6-speaker audio system; a 6-disc in-dash CD stacker; electric tilt/slide sunroof; anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake Force Distribution; rear luggage compartment security blind and large rear spoiler.
Safety has been paramount in Outlander's design. It uses Mitsubishi's RISE (Realised Impact Safety Evolution) monocoque body that combines an energy absorbing front section with a strong and rigid occupant cell. The body has undergone considerable stiffening for added strength, and to improve handling, stability and reduce noise and vibration transmitted from the suspension.
Apart from the body construction, Outlander also boasts front seat lap-sash seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, lap-sash seatbelts to all seating positions, head restraints to all seating positions, and dual SRS airbags.
Available in a striking selection of colours - Diamond White, Blade Silver, Cyclone Grey, Offshore Blue, Rose Red and Amethyst Black - Outlander is priced at $31,990 for the LS model, and $37,490 for the XLS.
An optional Safety Pack, incorporating ABS, side airbags, in-dash 6-CD stacker and white instrumentation, is available on LS for $2,500.
Outlander is an exceptional package that will provide the comfort, style, features and flexibility to suit the most discerning buyer. It is ideal for young couples, with or without children, to use around the urban areas during the week, and to go camping, or take the children to sport or away on the weekends.
Mitsubishi's new compact AWD goes on sale from early February 2003.
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