Mitsubishi’s new Outlander SUV – well sized, still good value despite higher prices

This week, Mitsubishi’s all-new Outlander seven-seat SUV, replacing a firm favourite and Mitsubishi’s second-best seller – the new model bolder looking with a pronounced frontal treatment and more refined comprises 4 front drive and five all-wheel drive models, in four grades, prices from $34,490 to $49,990.
Nissan took a controlling interest in Mitsubishi in 2016 and with Renault owning a large slice of Nissan, the new Outlander is one of the first collaborations of the three car makers – in fact, it sits on a common platform shared by Nissan’s X-Trail and Qashqui. All Outlanders powered by a 2.5-litre non-turbo four-cylinder engine driving through a new generation CVT automatic.
A seven-seater, although sized midway between medium and large, the first two seat rows accommodating however the fold up third row seats child sized at best with little legroom. Prices are up but Mitsubishi claim it’s the best equipped vehicle they’ve ever sold.
Last month awarded a five-star ANCAP safety rating, all models well specified with the latest active and passive safety. High points, a great interior and an intuitive 9-inch infotainment screen, the Exceed model I tested with an excellent 12.3-inch instrument display and head up display.
A disappointment, the lack of head airbags for the third-row seats. Warranty 10 years/200,000km if you service through a Mitsubishi dealer. Drive impressions next segment.
I’m David Berthon.
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