Mitsubishi: Outlander

More than just another car on the market, Outlander will be of great significance for MME, using the full meaning of “ crossing over “ when launched in most markets during the second quarter of 2003.

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In this respect, Outlander escapes the now expected format of station wagon / SUV crossover, for a more sophisticated sports wagon / SUV dimension, where style, attitude and quality take the lead over pure functionality and utility. Taking its design cues from a concept car and its 4WD system from the famous Lancer Evolution prove the point, as well as the premium quality of its interior appointments.

Available in 2WD (front wheel drive) or permanent 4WD, it also adds integrity and safety to the driving experience, a notch above its soft-roader and lifestyle station wagon competitors.

Style + attitude

Taking its design cues from the Mitsubishi ASX concept, Outlander makes a bold statement about its Mitsubishi Motors identity. Its very distinctive front end keeps the pattern set for the new Brand visual identity with its split grilles and strong centrepiece. However, it pushes the shape beyond the sleek dihedron and spine found on the CZ concept cars or on the new Lancer Evolution VIII for a more adventurous spirit born from Mitsubishi Motors strong SUV heritage. Same goes for its unusually substantial roof rack, carrying up to 80 kg.

No matter the boldness and attitude of Outlander, it does not cause any visual threat with its low stance (1,620 mm of overall height, i.e.: lower than most SUV, yet providing a 195 mm ground clearance), clean flanks, elegant rear end and stylish detailing (clear lense rear combination lamps, roof mounted antenna, rear roof spoiler…). More self-assured than aggressive. Elegant and sporty like a proper sports wagon.

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The casual chic feeling of the interior mirrors this sports wagon look of the exterior, witness the distinctive T-shape dashboard with its elegant insert (black wood print / Sport version or silver / Comfort version), centrally mounted watch maker-type analog clock, twin hooded white meters with silver bezels or the precision feeling of the rotating ( standard ) A/C knobs, typical of Japanese engineering.

The sporty elegance of Outlander does not detract from packaging and functionality though with its commanding driving position (100 mm higher than a regular sedan), contortion-free cabin ingress and egress (hip point 640 mm higher than on a sedan), 60/40 folding and reclining rear seats, comfortable hip room and legroom and useful 2,400 mm overall interior length.

Safety + Choice

On road, Outlander proves safe and sure-footed thanks to its 4-wheel independent suspension with McPherson struts at the front and multi-link arrangement at the rear, coupled with stabilizer bars front and rear. 4WD versions add the same full-time system with viscous coupling unit and center differential as used on the Lancer Evolution, while European-specific front 16” vented discs, rear 14” drum-in discs and ABS with EBD ( Electronic Brake-force Distribution system ) provide the stopping power.

Understanding the 2.0 liter psychological barrier still present across Europe, Mitsubishi Motors Europe will offer a 1,997 cc 4 cylinder DOHC ECI-MULTI developing 100 kW (136 hp) at launch, together with a 5 speed manual gearbox.

Consistent with the sports wagon feel and look of Outlander, MME will then introduce during the fourth quarter of 2003 an additional engine, a 2.4 liter developing around 160hp and equipped with Mitsubishi Motors innovative MIVEC variable valve timing gear. This all new powerplant will be available with either a 5 speed manual gearbox or an INVECS II 4 speed automatic, with manual sports mode. Topping this, a 200 hp+ 2.0 liter turbo charged and intercooled engine ( actually a detuned version of the new Lancer Evolution VIII unit ) will be made available to European customers during the course of 2004. A Diesel engine is also under investigation.

Outlander will be made available on LHD market on May 2003. RHD versions will be launched during the fourth quarter of 2003. Comfort and Sport model will be offered. Equipment may vary from one market to another.

 Photos: Mitsubishi