Front drive Outlander heads 2011 range

Mitsubishi has announced the arrival of a two-wheel drive Outlander as part of next year's line-up, the model introducing a number of improvements across the popular SUV range.

Entering on the ground floor, the Mitsubishi Outlander LS 2WD receives much of the same equipment as its all-wheel drive siblings, and is powered by a 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine developing 125kW/226Nm. The LS model is available with a five-speed manual or optional continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).

Mitsubishi's President and CEO, Masahiko Takahashi, said the new two-wheel drive Outlander LS is a significant model for the brand, one which will increase the breadth of the company's model range and appeal to a whole new audience.

"Outlander is a tried and trusted brand in the marketplace, and has been praised for its styling, flexibility and technical features," said Takahashi-san. 

"However, within this segment there is fast growing demand for two-wheel drive variants, which have a lower entry price.  Releasing an economical two-wheel-drive variant ensures Outlander will appeal to a much wider range of wagon buyers."

As with previous models, the 2011 Outlander range continues to offer a second engine on some variants, the 3.0-litre V6 petrol unit generating an output of 169kW/291Nm when mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Entry level LS models feature the same appointments as the previous model, including air-conditioning (climate control in four-wheel drive variants), upgraded electric window systems, remote-control locking, steering wheel mounted audio and cruise controls, two-speed/variable-delay intermittent wipers and a USB music interface port.

XLS models add 18-inch alloy wheels, Smart Key remote entry, climate control air-conditioning, aluminium pedals, cool/warm box and Bluetooth connectivity.

XLS Luxury variants score leather seats, dusk sensing headlamps, rain sensing wipers, sunroof, reverse camera and a 710 watt Rockford Fosgate sound system. MMCS with Satellite Navigation with voice activation, iPod functionality, Bluetooth and vehicle maintenance data is available optionally.

VR six-cylinder models include all the appointments of the LS model (above) and add Mitsubishi's acclaimed S-AWC system, fog lamps, reverse sensors, alloy pedals and enhanced interior trim. 

While the top of the range, VRX variants include the premium appointments of the XLS Luxury model (above), while adding MMCS as standard.

"Our customers need a car that can keep up with them and meet all their needs and the 2011 Outlander does just that.  It's a value packed vehicle designed to delight," said Takahashi-san.

As with all Outlander models, safety is a priority, with all models featuring driver and front passenger dual stage SRS airbags, active stability control, ABS with EBD, RISE body protection and three-point ELR seatbelts.  Side and curtain airbags are now standard on all AWD models and optional on the LS 2WD variant. 

Mitsubishi's comprehensive five year/130,000km whole vehicle warranty is offered across the range and is backed up a 10 year/160,000 km powertrain warranty and a five year/130,000 kilometre roadside assistance package.

2011 Mitsubishi Outlander range & pricing:

Outlander LS 2WD 5-seat (4 cyl.) $28,990 (man.) / $31,490 (CVT)
Outlander LS AWD 5-seat (4 cyl.) $33,240 (man.) / $35,740 (CVT)
Outlander LS AWD 7-seat (4 cyl.) $37,690 (CVT only)
Outlander XLS AWD 5-seat (4 cyl.) $40,490 (CVT only)
Outlander XLS Luxury AWD 5-seat (4 cyl.) $47,990 (CVT only)
Outlander VR AWD 5-seat (6 cyl.) $40,990 (auto. only)
Outlander VRX AWD 5-seat (6 cyl.) $51,990 (auto. only)
Side & Curtain Airbags $850 (optional on 2WD models)
Metallic / Pearlescent Paint $450

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