Mitsubishi Outlander 2004 Review

What we liked
>> Extra performance
>> Upgraded equipment
>> Little price increase

Not so much
>> No optional transmission
>> No optional engine
>> Bland styling

OVERVIEW
Mitsubishi has given the new Outlander an update to take on the hotly contested compact SUV class, with 20kW extra output and upgraded equipment levels.

A raft of new model releases, in addition to the final go-ahead of the Magna replacement (to be called Galant) scheduled for late 2005 is evidence Mitsubishi's future is now a lot brighter than it was just a few months ago.

The ZF Outlander has received a much needed power and equipment boost. Added to its aggressive pricing, Outlander sales are expected to increase from the current 300 or so a month to Mitsubishi's target of 500.

There are three models in the mix: the entry-level LS, for $32,490; mid-spec XLS for $36,390 and the new range-topping VR-X for $37,990. The LS can be ordered with an upgrade pack, featuring side airbags and a six stack CD for $1300. XLS and VR-X have these as standard: their only option being an electric tilt and slide sunroof for $1600.

However the big news is a new 2.4 litre SOHC four cylinder engine featuring MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve lift and Electronic Control) that boosts power output to120kw @ 5750rpm up from 100kw in the previous model.

Torque gets a welcome boost with 220Nm developed at 4000rpm (up from 205Nm). With 95 per cent of this available from 2500rpm the Outlander can now take on its competitors with a more confidence in the power race.

A new drive-by-wire throttle delivers more precise engine control and helps in delivering good fuel economy, which Mitsubishi claims has not changed from the previous model.

FEATURES
The mid-model upgrade has delivered more power and equipment across the range without large price increases. The Outlander now comes in three distinct models, each with unique head/tail lamps and badging to differentiate them in the lineup.

Each model boasts a new rear tailgate that was designed locally by Mitsubishi for use in all markets worldwide, incorporating a larger rear window; tailgate handle and clear high rear stop light mounted on a full width roof spoiler.

The entry-level LS comes with 16-inch steel wheels and 215/60R tyres, and gains ABS brakes with Electronic Brake Force Distribution. On the inside, a new set of metal-look power window switches and white instrument faces are the main changes.

The mid-spec XL-S gains front and rear fender flares, body kit and 16-inch alloy wheels. The facelift also includes dark privacy glass from the rear doors and chrome scuff plates on the door sills and tailgate.

New to the range, VR-X has a mixture of sports and luxury features that Mitsubishi says the market demanded. It gets unique 17-inch alloy wheels on sports tuned suspension; monotone paint; body kit; clear tail lamps and a chrome exhaust extension to set it apart.

On the inside some carbon fibre-look trim, chrome door handles and sports seats trimmed in leather and suede lift provide a bit of spark. A Fujitsu 10 Eclipse stereo rounds out the VR-X equipment list.

The styling changes have freshened up the Outlander and whilst the front-on view may not be to everyone's taste the total look is now more integrated.

All Outlanders come with a four-speed automatic gearbox, with sequential shifting via the dashboard-mounted selector. The full-time 4WD system is derived from the Lancer EVO with a Viscous Coupling Unit in the drive train to ensure power is delivered to the wheels with the most grip.

COMFORT
The Outlander has plenty of room up front for driver and passenger and the dash-mounted gear selector creates a feeling of space, not unlike the Honda CR-V's arrangement.

The fully adjustable front seats are comfortable and supportive with the VR-X having more aggressive bolstering in line with its sports luxury focus.

The dashboard displays all controls logically. Vision forward is excellent and clear instrumentation and logical control placement makes the Outlander easy to drive.

Power windows, locking, steering and mirrors are standard across the range and the central locking buttons are now on the key rather than a separate control.

The rear provides ample leg, shoulder and head room and access is easy via wide door openings. We can imagine a bit of a squeeze for three, though.

The large fully-trimmed luggage area can be expanded by folding the rear seat flat. Roof rails are fitted to secure additional luggage and are adjustable. Outlander also features plenty of storage nooks around the cabin and cup holders are fitted for each passenger.

SAFETY
All Outlanders now come with four wheel disc brakes with ABS and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) fitted as standard.

Twin front airbags are fitted to all models, with side airbags optional as part of a pack that includes a six stack CD on the entry-level LS, for $1300.

All five seating positions have three-point seatbelts with belt tensioners and force limiters fitted.

Outlander uses a strong monocoque body with progressive crumple zones and features doors that automatically unlock following an impact.

MECHANICAL
There are no optional transmissions or engines for the Outlander: the 2.4 litre MIVEC with a four speed sequential automatic is the sole combination on offer.

Torque has increased to 220Nm with 95 per cent of this available from 2500 rpm and 120kW @ 5750 rpm -- a substantial increase on its predecessor. The increases have also made the Outlander competitive with its rivals.

The four speed auto is responsive to the new drive-by-wire throttle and can be changed sequentially via the dashboard-mounted lever.

COMPETITORS
The Outlander has a big job ahead of it with the Nissan X-Trail currently the sales leader (and a CarPoint comparison winner) with a slight lead over the Toyota Rav4 and Subaru Forester. The Outlander also faces strong competition in the Honda CR-V and Mazda Tribute.

The addition of extra equipment and the more powerful MIVEC engine with little or no price increase make the Outlander good value against competitors. It matches them on equipment and in a number of cases it's the value buy in the class. A three year 100,000km warranty gives piece of mind as does the build quality which is first rate.

Mitsubishi predicts around 500 Outlanders will sell every month, with half of the sales going to the LS; 40 per cent to XL-S and the remaining 10 per cent for the new VR-X.

Those figures are ambitious, but we predict that the VR-X could prove more popular. The VR-X will not be available until September whereas the other models are available now.

ON THE ROAD
Mitsubishi is claiming significantly reduced acceleration times for the new Outlander. Whether it is off the mark or in rolling acceleration the Outlander is now competitive with its rivals.

According to Mitsubishi the 0-100kmh time has come down from 12.1 seconds to 10.5 and the all important 80-120kmh time was reduced from 8.9 seconds to 7.9.

The EVO-derived 4WD system fitted to the Outlander works well in putting the power down and during our 300km test it was virtually impossible to break its vice-like grip. The Outlander will push a bit wide if you have too much speed on for a corner, but applying more power pulls it all back into line.

At all other times the Outlander is predictable and safe with a smooth ride that does not deteriorate on loose surfaces. It could even be called fun on dirt where it can hustle along quite nicely if the mood takes you. It seems that all Mitsubishi's rally experience is trickling down into other models in the range.

The four wheel discs will pull the Outlander up pretty sharply no doubt aided by the now standard ABS brakes. Stability is good and the steering is light and precise. At speed the cabin is quiet with little wind or road noise intruding.

Overall the Outlander is now a much better proposition with more power, equipment and safety over the outgoing model. With little, if any, price penalty to pay Outlander should appear on a few more shopping lists.