South Africans rejoice as Mitsubishi Outlander goes on sale with its combination of modern interior and exterior design, all-wheel drive technologies and convenient seating for seven occupants as it takes up the position of flagship of the Mitsubishi range.
Reimagined and reinvented in every way, the Outlander is based on an all-new platform with the latest generation four-wheel drive systems, the ability to accept a hybrid drivetrain as well as claimed improvements in quality in every area.
"With cutting edge features, improved quality and rally bred performance built into its DNA, the bigger bolder, next generation Outlander is nothing short of revolutionary for our iconic brand,” says Jeffrey Allison, General Manager: Marketing at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA).
The all-new Outlander features a bold exterior design based on the Japanese product concept of I-Fu-Do-Do, which translates into 'authentic and majestic'. The exterior is characterised by thick, horizontal proportions which along with jet tail fin pillars inspired by the vertical tail of airplanes, result in a bold, fixating presence.
When viewed from the front, the Outlander has a modern design that incorporates Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield creating on road presence. This is accentuated by LED front fog lamps, LED sequential turn signals and daytime running lights as well as a front skid plate.
This theme is continued at the rear thanks to a similar skid plate, rear spoiler and LED high-mounted brake light. 20-inch alloy wheels and silver roof rails. In addition to its modern design the Outlander lives up to the legendary off-road pedigree that Mitsubishi models are known for thanks to 210mm of ground clearance and the addition of Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC)
The cabin of the all-new Outlander has luxury and comfort thanks to the utilisation of soft touch surfaces and premium materials. Features such as quilted leather door inserts, a black headliner and pillars convincingly elevate the interior offering. The leather wrapped four-spoke steering wheel is tilt and telescopic adjustable and is home to cruise control buttons and paddle shifters.
There is a 12,3-inch Digital Driver Display which is flanked by an eight-inch Smartphone-link display on GLS models or a nine-inch Smartphone-Link Display Audio display with navigation on Aspire models. Both systems incorporate Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring functionality. Aspire models gain leather seats, an eight-way power adjustable, power lumbar support and memory function driver’s seat, a power sliding panoramic sunroof.A six-speaker sound system and three-zone automatic climate control ensure passenger comfort and entertainment.
The Outlanders exterior length translates into a spacious interior that has also been well packaged to take maximum advantage of that available space. The Outlanders GLS models feature a keyless operation system with engine switch, front and rear park distance control, a rear-view camera, heated synthetic leather seats with suede combination and an automatic tailgate
“The improved levels of engine power and torque as well as revised gearbox software tuning have resulted in an engine and gearbox package that work in harmony to create a driving experience that leaves nothing to be desired,” adds Allison.
Designed to always keep the engine in the sweet spot, the CVT also ensures improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions, with the Outlander, which is fitted with a 55-litre fuel tank, claimed to sip 8,1 litres per 100km on the combined cycle.
Safety remains a priority to Mitsubishi with Seven SRS airbags are standard fitment on all models. In addition, all Outlander models are fitted with ABS brakes, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Emergency Stop signal System, Hill Start Assist and Hill Decent Control as well as Active Stability and Traction Control.
Active safety technology includes a variety of advanced driver assistance features such as dusk Sensing LED headlights that automatically altering the illumination range and brightness of the headlights.
The all-new Outlander is fitted with Mitsubishi’s latest generation 2.5-litre Duel VVT DOHC engine that utilises Direct-Injection to produce 135kW at 6 000rpm and 245Nm at 3 600rpm.This engine is coupled to a simulated eight-speed CVT transmission that is claimed to deliver effortless acceleration from any speed, slicker gear changes and a refined driving experience.
Drivers are able to tailor their experience via a variety of drive modes labelled Eco, Normal, Tarmac, Gravel, Snow and Mud which alter parameters including throttle sensitivity, shift patterns and the AWD system and ensure power delivery in the safest, most efficient manner.
All Models will include a Manufacturer’s Warranty: 3 year/ 100 000km Plan. Road Side Assistance: 5 year Unlimited Mileage Plan. Service Plan: 5 year/ 90 000km. Service intervals: Every 15 000km
Price:
Mitsubishi Outlander GLS: R729 995
Mitsubishi Outlander Aspire: R759 995