It’s telling how the first 10 minutes of a test drive can shape a lasting impression. While expectations weren’t high for an automaker that had seen better days, the Mitsubishi Outlander surprised us on many fronts, steadily building upon the initial impression till we surrendered the keys days later. So here’s why we rate it.
It’s comprehensively equipped
Do you scrutinize every item on your food bill before paying? If yes, then the Outlander should be right up your alley, that is if you are looking for a mid-size SUV. Items that matter include seven airbags (including one for the driver’s knee), vehicle stability control, reversing camera, electronically controlled AWD system, powered tailgate, keyless entry with push-button start, steering column mounted shift paddles, LED headlamps and daytime running lights, dual-zone climate control system, sunroof, leather seating and 18-inch alloys.
While the feature set is comprehensive if not class-leading, some will moan about the lack of rear air-con ventilation which Mitsubishi curiously omitted in the design of the Outlander cabin. Depending on how often the third row is utilised, this oversight isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker. Having said that, the Outlander’s lengthy cabin means the third row is conducive to the presence of adult occupants, so long as the middle row passengers play ball, hence the efficacy of the air-conditioning is definitely something to check through during a test drive.
It’s not unattractive
It’s a blessing that Malaysians never got to know the bland, nondescript Outlander that debuted globally in 2012. This facelifted version must surely constitute a great ‘save’ by Mitsubishi from a design standpoint, with the bold ‘Dynamic Shield’ front face worked in without appearing as though it’s a repair job. The judicious use of chrome and silver bits (plus an inspired choice of alloys) also work to good effect, giving the Outlander much-needed presence in a fiercely competitive segment.
The significantly uplifted exterior does however put the tepid interior design in stark contrast. Nothing much wrong with how it functions (logical, easy to operate) or even what it’s made of (touch points with acceptable quality), but the unimaginative, 90s era dashboard architecture begs for some trim highlights to brighten up the wide expanse of gray and dark glossy plastic. But if you’re able to look beyond that, the Outlander’s roomy cabin is highly accommodating to families with high headcount. Miss the discontinued Grandis MPV? Try this for size.
It actually drives well
Two key observations here. Firstly, a CVT almost always work better with larger engines, and it’s apparent in the Outlander, even if the output (167hp/222Nm) from its 2.4-litre MIVEC four-cylinder lags a little behind its rivals. What’s pleasing about the Outlander is the near absence of the dreaded CVT strain under acceleration, throttle response is also surprisingly urgent and when in a cruise, the Outlander’s cabin is peaceful place to stretch out. Considering Mitsubishi’s patchy record in managing powertrain refinement, this is a minor revelation.
Secondly, despite being shod with 18-inch rubber (225/55R18), Mitsubishi somehow made the Outlander ride pliantly over nasty surfaces, and it does so without sacrificing body control either. So yes, the suspension is calibrated not only to take on those fancy-looking alloys but to also to flatter the driver who may occasionally want to fiddle with those gearshift paddles and go round corners faster than usual.
So, should you buy one?
If only car buying decisions are so simple, which is never the case in such a hotly contested space. For a comfy, family-friendly SUV to drive this well is testament to the clever but honest engineering that still exist within Mitsubishi Motors. The Outlander may not stand out from the pack at any one particular area, and at RM166,720 for the sole 2.4-litre AWD variant, it is by no means a choice that springs to the top of the mind. Yet when it is viewed as a whole, the Outlander is a surprisingly complete package, one that deserves more attention than what it is probably getting now.
Mitsubishi Outlander
Price: RM166,720 (incl. GST, w/o insurance)
Engine: 2.4-litre, four-cyl, petrol, AWD
Output: 167hp @ 6000rpm, 222Nm @ 4100rpm
Transmission: CVT with six-speed manual mode
Performance: 0-100km/h in 11.0 seconds, top speed 210km/h (est.)
Wheels/tyres: 18in alloys, 225/55 R18
Safety: 7 airbags, Electronic Stability Control
Warranty: 5-year or 100,000km