Mitsubishi Outlander review
by Stephen Walker
24th March, 2013
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Mitsubishi's
new Outlander released
31st December, 2012
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next-gen arriving in November
18th October, 2012
Mitsubishi Outlander:
the new generation
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The release of an all-new Mitsubishi Outlander is an important occasion.
The Outlander has been a popular choice for SUV buyers ever since the local release of the original model in February
2003. The new, third generation, model demonstrates an excellent endeavour to improve a well accepted product.
Outwardly the appearance of the new model is a complete departure from the previous model's styling. Yet the new
distinctive shape has its own appeal. The conservatively styled new Outlander pays homage to the 'jet fighter' grille of
the previous model with a shallower and broader lower grille. The upper grille is a 'fake', being merely a styling
exercise.
The series code for the new Mitsubishi Outlander is "ZJ".
Model line-up
One body style is available in three trim levels, namely ES, LS and Aspire. As the trend these days is to offer 2WD
and 4WD versions, the Outlander complies with this concept and offers variations in drivetrain.
Although automatic transmission is the 'norm' in this market segment, a manual transmission is on offer for the base
model ES two-wheel drive model.
Three engines are on offer, depending on variant. There is a 2.0-litre petrol, 2.4-litre petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel
engine available which makes for a good selection to enable buyers to 'fit' their requirements suitably.
As before, five and seven seat models are available.
The new Outlander forms the basis of Mitsubishi's next electric vehicle. That will be along fairly soon. An SUV EV has
been on Mitsubishi's agenda for a few years now and we're about to see the results of their efforts.
Five star safety
In achieving a five star crash worthiness rating with ANCAP, the Outlander scored 35.58 points out of 37! An excellent
result for Australian families.
Prices*
OUTLANDER ES 2.0 2WD PETROL
5-seat manual $28,990*
5-seat CVT $31,240*
OUTLANDER ES 2.4 AWD PETROL
5-seat CVT $33,990*
OUTLANDER LS 2.0 2WD PETROL
5-seat CVT $34,990*
OUTLANDER LS AWD 2.4 PETROL
7 SEAT CVT $38,990*
OUTLANDER LS AWD 2.2 DIESEL
7-seat automatic $40,990*
OUTLANDER ASPIRE AWD 2.4 PETROL
7-seat CVT $43,490*
OUTLANDER ASPIRE AWD 2.2 DIESEL
7-seat automatic $45,490*
Options
Metallic/pearlescent paint $495*
Premium pack (Aspire models only) $5,500*
On the road in the new Outlander
My first experience with this new model Outlander was as a back-seat driver. My first impression was that with four
occupants the new Mitsubishi Outlander was providing excellent accommodation. There was
sufficient room for each of us.
This experience was with the 2.0-litre two-wheel drive model with the CVT. With four on board it was an effort to
accelerate to effect an overtaking manoeuvre on a regional highway but nevertheless we were able to complete these types
of driving tactics as we allowed sufficient space and drove to the prevailing conditions. But we each took the view that
it will be good to sample the other powertrains.
Once behind the wheel of the 2.4 petrol and 2.2 diesel variants a higher degree of satisfaction was encountered. Both
these engines provide a good degree of power to undertake country motoring at a more enjoyable level. The ride quality of
each of the variants we sampled was very good. So, too, on unsealed roads which we sampled for approximately forty
kilometres. In fact, we were quite impressed with the Outlander on various unsealed roads. We didn't head off-road during
our time behind the wheel on this occasion.
On the road, the new Outlander was a refreshingly good drive. Could it be improved? Hardly!
Dimensions
Length: 4,655 mm
Width: 1,800 mm
Height: 1,680 mm
Wheelbase: 2,670 mm
Weight: 1,395 kg to 1,610 kg (depending on variant)
Boot capacity: 477 litres with back seat 'up' or 1,608 litres with the back seat 'down'
Summary
The Outlander has always been a favourite with the Next Car team due to its good size, tidy manners, stylish
appearance and value for money. It remains so today!
Stay tuned for individual road test reports.
NOTE: * Manufacturer's List Price (MLP) excludes dealer delivery
fees and the numerous statutory charges (commonly known as on-road costs). Additionally, please note that all prices,
fees and charges are subject to change without notice, as are the specifications.
E&OE
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