We video test the Mitsubishi Outlander 2.4 VRX 4WD
In this fast-moving world the only thing you can be sure of is that there will be change. Usually this comes in the form of improvements, and that’s what’s happened with the latest version of the Mitsubishi Outlander.
Gone is the bland styling, especially at the back, with a new look at the front which sees a new front bumper, a lot more chrome, LED headlights on top models, and a new-look tail with lots of bright work to make it look bolder and wider.
At the same time plastic trim has been added on the sides to both elongate the look of the vehicle and to protect against minor knocks, while the interior has come in for big changes to improve both quality and comfort.
The engineers also looked at what they had done to make the Outlander PHEV hybrid so quiet, and added in the same sound-deadening features to the regular Outlander, as well as improving the suspension and CVT gearbox.
We like the new look – Mitsubishi calls it the “Dynamic Shield” – as it makes the car look more aggressive in keeping with its SUV positioning.
And we especially like the interior, which is much fresher and appealing. We particularly like the use of hand-stitching on the seats, as well as faux stitching on top of the dashboard, plus the piano black trim on the steering wheel and centre console.
The seats are also much more comfy, with better foam and extra bolsters in front. Sportier drivers will appreciate the pair of alloy shifter paddles behind the reach and height-adjustable leather-rimmed steering wheel, nicely placed for manual shifts. There are also satellite controls for the audio system, adaptive cruise control, and the phone, so you don’t have to take your hands off the steering wheel.
Once on the road it’s immediately apparent that a lot has been done. The suspension changes, with bigger shocks at the back, re-mapped power steering, and the fitment of Goodyear Eagle tyres, improve ride and especially handling, while the improvements to NVH (noise, harshness, vibration) include a modified engine intake, thicker noise-isolating windscreen (borrowed from the PHEV), improved weather stripping, and more insulation materials in the body.
The car is also much nicer to drive thanks to a more-responsive accelerator feel, re-mapping of the CVT’s computer, with 26 percent less torque loss, and less of the high-revving engine note that’s the usual bugbear of a CVT gearbox. As an aside, this has also improved fuel consumption by four percent.
Plus, it’s a four-wheel-drive, with a switch that allows you to change from on-demand 4WD to locked centre diff., the former offering sure-footed roadholding in normal conditions, the latter for when things get tougher, such as on dirt roads, sand, mud or snow.
Naturally there’s Bluetooth audio streaming, a 6.1 inch touch screen, reversing sensors and cameras, and satnav, as well as seven airbags for a five-star ANCAP safety rating.
Seating is versatile, with a fair bit of room in all three rows, although as in most cases the rearmost seats are best kept for the kids. There’s easy access from the power tailgate, operated remotely from the centre console or by the smart key.
All-in-all, the Outlander is even more competitive in a hugely competitive sector, plus the benefits of keen pricing and excellent 10-year warranty. For more information including latest pricing, go to www.mmnz.co.nz/outlander.
John Oxley, managing editor Company Vehicle.
