Mitsubishi Outlander: prices and specifications

Model Overview

Mitsubishi Outlander is a mid-size crossover from the Japanese brand, in production since 2001. During its production run, the model has had two names: the first generation was called Airtrek, which implied "the quality of a car that easily carries its passengers and their luggage to the final point of their journey," and starting from the second generation, the crossover became known as Outlander on all markets, which translates as "foreigner."

The idea of creating the brand's first mid-size crossover arose among Mitsubishi management in 1998. By 1999, the ASX (Active Sports Crossover) prototype was built, which officially debuted at the Detroit Auto Show in 2001. In June of that year, serial production of the model began, which replaced the compact SUV Montero Sport on a number of markets.

First Generation (2001–2006)

In 2001, the crossover under the name Mitsubishi Airtrek, based on the ASX concept, debuted in Japan. Buyers were offered two petrol engines — a 2.0-liter 4G63 and a 2.4-liter 4G64, paired with a 4-speed semi-automatic transmission. The car was available with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive; the all-wheel drive version was equipped with open differentials at the front and rear and a viscous coupling on the center differential.

In 2002, a powerful modification appeared with a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4G63T engine from the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. For the Japanese market, the previous two-liter units remained available. In 2003, for North America, a version under the name Outlander was released, distinguished by a modified radiator grille and head optics increased by 130 mm; both models were sold on the market in parallel. At the same time, the old 4G64 was replaced with a 2.0-liter 4G69 SOHC with MIVEC system, and in 2004, the turbocharged 4G63T became available.

On the South American market, the car was also sold under the name Montero Outlander to link it with the popular Montero Sport model.

Second Generation (2006–2013)

The second generation Outlander was introduced in 2006. The car was built on the stretched GS platform, developed jointly with the DaimlerChrysler concern. The model received new engines, including a three-liter V6, and a CVT. The crossover quickly became a bestseller, first in Japan and then in other countries.

In 2007, French clones of the model appeared — Peugeot 4007 and Citroën C-Crosser. In 2010, the Outlander underwent a facelift, receiving a front end in the style of the Lancer X. Since 2010, the car has been assembled at a plant in Kaluga (Russia).

Third Generation (since 2013)

The third generation Outlander was shown at the Geneva Motor Show in 2012. The car received a completely new exterior and interior design, modernized engines and transmissions. In addition to standard petrol and diesel versions, the company launched hybrid and fully electric modifications into production. The model is produced in several countries; for the European market, assembly is organized in the Netherlands and Russia.

In 2012, plans were announced for the production of a plug-in hybrid running on electric power together with a petrol engine, with an electric range of up to 50 km. The hybrid version was named Mitsubishi Outlander P-HEV, and its sales began at the end of 2013. Already in 2014, despite the freshness of the model, a facelift was carried out.

Exterior

The exterior update affected the radiator grille, front and rear bumpers, wheel arch extensions, rear optics; LEDs and 18-inch alloy wheels appeared. At the same time, the crossover's design evokes mixed reactions: for many, it is too bland, without aggressive or extraordinary solutions. However, there are also those who like the restrained appearance that does not attract unnecessary attention.

Interior

The Outlander's cabin is one of the most spacious in its class. If a person two meters tall sits in the driver's seat, and a passenger of the same height sits behind him, there will still be 10–15 centimeters left from his knees to the front seat. Such a reserve of space is worthy of cars of a higher class.

With enough space in the front

and rear seats

the trunk volume is an impressive 591 liters.

Thanks to all the advantages of the interior space, the Mitsubishi Outlander is an ideal choice for a family car with all-wheel drive.

Engine and Transmission

The Outlander is equipped with petrol engines familiar from the previous generation. A diesel version for Ukraine is not yet planned. The modification with a 2.0-liter engine producing 145 hp is available with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, while the version with a 2.4-liter engine producing 167 hp is available only with all-wheel drive.

Mitsubishi decided not to use manual transmissions: the Outlander in any trim is equipped only with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Safety

There are no safety issues with the Outlander: the car successfully passed the Euro NCAP test and received the maximum five stars.

Protection for adult passengers is rated at 88%, and for a child in a special seat — at 84%. These indicators show that in the event of an accident, passengers will not receive serious life-threatening injuries.

Features

There are no particular complaints about the Outlander's handling. The car is tuned in a European style: the suspension is moderately stiff, handles bumps well, and does not tire passengers. Even during sharp maneuvers, the feedback on the steering wheel remains readable and allows the driver to control the situation. On the highway, the car confidently holds its trajectory regardless of the road surface condition.

Despite its "crossover" status, the Outlander allows you to venture off-road — the main thing is to ensure that the car does not sit on its belly. All-wheel drive provides confident off-road capability within the ground clearance, which is just over 200 mm.

Popularity in Ukraine

Not long ago, Mitsubishi were among the best-selling cars in all classes. Now the situation has changed, but there are still many fans of the brand. The decline in sales was influenced by the company's pricing policy.

Our Verdict

A good choice for a family buyer who wants a spacious modern crossover. Even if it is not a true off-road conqueror, it is capable of a lot. The Mitsubishi Outlander has earned a reputation as a reliable car, and this allows us to conclude that the person who chooses it will not regret the purchase.