Lancer look for Outlander

The cosmetic changes for the Outlander previewed at the New York International Auto Show earlier this year are now appearing in Mitsubishi's local showrooms.

Adopting the well-regarded frontal treatment from the Lancer Evo, the upgraded Outlander also boasts standard Hill Start Control for automatic variants and Super All Wheel Control for V6-powered cars.

"This vehicle has got the lot -- style, safety and flexibility," Robert McEniry, President and CEO of Mitsubishi Australia, was quoted as saying in a press release.

"If you're the sort of person who likes to get up and go -- anywhere -- then the Outlander has all the technology and versatility to get you there.

"The new Mitsubishi Outlander is squarely targeted at couples and young families who are on-the-go people who are focused on wringing every last second of enjoyment out of life. 

"You can throw your surfboard or mountain bike in the back, plug your iPod into the USB port, and you -- and up to six of your friends -- can go  places you've never been in comfort, style and safety."

Inside the revised Outlander, seat, door and dash trim materials are new, with the addition of grained leather for higher-grade variants, along with double stitching, chrome decorative highlights and an upgraded instrument cluster. A sports steering wheel and racing-style aluminium pedals are available optionally.

The LS variant with CVT is now available with the option of a 'one-touch roll-away' third-row seat. Mitsubishi is also equipping the Outlander with a new audio system featuring USB input -- for vehicles not fitted with the Mitsubishi Multi Communication System.

All Outlander variants for 2010 come as standard with dual-stage front airbags for driver and front-seat passenger, stability control and ABS/EBD. Buyers can specify side-impact and curtain airbags for all Outlanders, but those safety features cost extra for the LS level of trim.

Further to the Outlander gaining Hill Start Control for the automatic/CVT variants and the Super All Wheel Control for the V6 variants, the V6 engine itself has been lightly upgraded. Mitsubishi has reduced drag in the engine's intake system and optimised valve timing and the compression ratio. Power has risen by 7kW as a consequence and the changes have resulted in improved torque for reduced fuel consumption and easier urban driving.

Pricing for the new Outlander begins at $32,990 (manufacturer list price, does not include dealer and government charges) for the LS manual five-seater. The XLS models start at $39,990, VR from $40,490 and the VRX has a starting price of $47,490.

Mitsubishi also revealed updated pricing for its Trition range with the base GL 4x2 starting at $20,990, GLX 4x2 at $25,090 and the GL-R completing the 4x2 with prices from $35,490. The 4x4 range starts at $34,590 for the GLX, the GL-R range begins at $44,990 and the GLX-R is priced from $47,990.

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