We video test the Mitsubishi Outlander VRX
In the two years since its launch, the latest Mitsubishi Outlander has cemented its place as a leader in the medium SUV market and great seller to fleets.
At the same time it’s answered some of the criticisms levelled at its predecessor by being equipped with soft touch dashboard finishes, a better overall quality feel, as well as a much stronger and more rigid bodywork that makes the handling tauter and the vehicle quieter on the road.
Our test vehicle was the top-of-the-line VRX driven by a 2.4-litre petrol engine, and it was very well put together, with not a squeak or rough edge to be found.
It has a clean and fuss-free interior, with controls that are well laid-out, and we particularly liked the ease with which the Bluetooth phone paired with our iPhone, using voice prompts.
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, cruise control, and the phone, so you don’t have to take your hands off the steering wheel.
Included in the very high spec is some of the latest crash avoidance technology, including “e-Assist” technology which uses adaptive cruise control to keep the car at a pre-selected safe distance from the vehicle in front.
And even if it’s not switched on, the forward collision mitigation (FCM) will sense if you creep too close to the vehicle in front, primes the brakes, and alerts the driver. If you don’t brake, FCM does.
There are also "wide vision" xenon headlamps, and the extreme wide-angle rear view reversing camera system integrated into the seven-inch touch screen audio panel which includes satnav as well as a trip meter and, as mentioned, full Bluetooth (with voice recognition), as well as USB and MP3 integration in the excellent sound system.
The latest Outlander was designed from the outset to be a seven-seater, and as such it offers three rows of leather-trimmed seats, with a fair bit of room in all three.
The middle row seats can be adjusted for rake, with a 60-40 split, and can also slide to improve the third row.
There’s easy access from the power tailgate, operated remotely from the centre console or by the smart key, while safety features include seven airbags, stability control, Hill Start Assist, reversing sensors, It’s got a five-star ANCAP safety rating.
All-in-all, the Outlander is progressing well, despite the huge competition in its market segment, aided no doubt by its very keen pricing with the range starting from $23,195 + ORC and excellent 5 year warranty.
EnjoyJohn Oxley, managing editor Company Vehicle.
