We video test the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander VRX – “With its impressive comfort, remarkable levels of standard equipment and handsome looks, the Outlander VRX is definitely a package worth giving serious consideration”
The top of the range Outlander just keeps getting better. As far as Japanese car manufacturers go, Mitsubishi is the undisputed master of running changes - that is, making small, but meaningful tweaks and updates to a car during its life-cycle top keep it competitive.
When the Outlander first came out there were the usual complaints about noise and harshness, as well as looks that were polarising, to say the least. But now Mitsubishi has refined the Outlander into a rather good thing indeed after a series of refreshes, facelifts and, of course, those all-important running changes.
Sitting at the top of the conventionally-powered Outlander range is the VRX, available in either petrol, diesel or PHEV plug-in hybrid versions, all boasting AWD. The VRX is the petrol-powered version that packs Mitsubishi’s 126kW/224Nm 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine hooked up to a continuously variable transmission.
The VRX comes absolutely packed with standard equipment, including 18-inch alloy wheels, dual zone climate control, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry and start, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated seats, LED headlights and daytime running lights, a sunroof, a leather interior, a 360-degree parking camera, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert and lane change assist, forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control and automatic high beam for the headlights.
As the Outlander has evolved it has become an increasingly comfortable vehicle, and the VRX is certainly no exception to that trait. The Outlander has a composed and compliant ride, with the interior generally being a pleasant and ergonomically sensible place to spend time.
The integration of the phone mirroring system (Android Auto and Apple CarPlay) is well implemented and works very well, while the Mitsubishi infotainment is simply a million miles better than it used to be.
The Outlander boasts an impressive ride and it is one that really comes into its own on the open road. Handling is more than acceptable for something of this height and weight, so don’t expect sports car like handling and you will be perfectly happy. It does like a good understeer when pushed hard though.
With its impressive comfort, remarkable levels of standard equipment and handsome looks, the Outlander VRX is definitely a package worth giving serious consideration to, especially when you take into account Mitsubishi’s 10 year warranty and attractive pricing.
