2010 Mitsubishi Outlander

Press release

For 2010, Mitsubishi is offering four different trims of the Outlander, all revised with fresh and aggressive styling. The Outlander line features two four-cylinder models — base ES and well-equipped SE — and two V6 models, the feature-packed XLS and the new-for-2010 GT. The ES, SE, and XLS models are available with 2WD or AWC. The premium Outlander GT is standard exclusively with the road holding control of Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC).

Outlander ES and SE models are equipped with a 2.4-liter MIVEC four-cylinder engine, producing 168 hp and 167 lb.-ft. of torque, and a standard CVT Sportronic ® transmission. For California, ES and SE two-wheel drive models are PZEV-certified and offer 161 horsepower and 161 lb.-ft. of torque. Outlander XLS and GT models are equipped with an enhanced 3.0-liter MIVEC V6 engine, now producing 230 hp and 215 lb.-ft. of torque, and a standard 6-speed Sportronic ® transmission with Idle-Neutral Logic.

The redesigned 2010 Outlander sees the addition of a distinctive jet fighter front grille, which evokes the sporty history of Mitsubishi’s family line-up. Backing up those looks in the GT is the addition of a blacked out front bumper cover design and a lightweight aluminum roof.

The 2010 Outlander 2.4-liter SE models (2WD and 4WD) offer an optional compact third-row underfloor-stowable seat, which is standard on the XLS and GT models. Standard for all
Outlander models is the flat-fold tailgate, which allows easy loading and access of the rear storage area.

The available 40GB hard disc drive navigation system with Music Server now includes Real-Time Traffic (RDS) with no subscription fee. The Rockford-Fosgate Punch® premium sound system, standard on GT and optional on SE and XLS in the Sun & Sound Package, now features 710-Watt (max) of audio power.

Power Choices

The redesigned 2010 Outlander offers a compelling blend of sporty dynamics, standout styling, five- or seven-passenger versatility, plus advanced user technology and onboard entertainment options. The Outlander’s unique flat-fold tailgate helps make loading cargo easier and can also serve as a tailgate seat that supports up to 440 lbs.

Available with 2WD or AWC, the Outlander ES and SE models are powered by a 2.4-liter DOHC MIVEC four-cylinder engine teamed with a Sportronic® continuously variable transmission (CVT). The SE features magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produces 168 hp and 167 lb.-ft. of peak torque. Counter-balance shafts, a system patented by Mitsubishi over 30 years ago to reduce engine vibration, help give the 2.4-liter Outlander models smooth, quiet performance, a trait further enhanced by the CVT. The Mitsubishi Innovative Valve-timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) system controls valve timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts to optimize performance at all engine speeds.

The 2010 Outlander XLS and GT models use a revised-for-2010 230 hp 3.0-liter MIVEC V6, an increase of 10 hp from previous, and a six-speed Sportronic® automatic transmission with magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters. The V6 produces 215 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 3,750 rpm, with nearly 90 percent available from just 2,000 rpm. The MIVEC system controls valve timing and lift to optimize performance at all engine speeds. The Sportronic® automatic transmission also provides increased fuel economy with the new addition of Idle Neutral Logic (INL). By automatically selecting neutral whenever the Outlander GT comes to a stop, fuel consumption is reduced.

Performance-Engineered Platform

Outlander is based on a performance-engineered global platform that also forms the foundation of the new-generation Mitsubishi Lancer and Lancer Evolution models. The result is a crossover that delivers handling dynamics, stability and driver engagement uncommon in the segment. A highly rigid unibody structure, which makes extensive use of high-strength steel, allows for sport-oriented suspension tuning while also providing a smooth, compliant ride. Standard on every Outlander is the addition of a Lancer Evolution-inspired lightweight aluminum roof panel, which lowers the center of gravity for better handling response.

Front suspension strut tower bars enhance lateral rigidity for precise steering response. The rear multilink suspension provides an excellent balance of handling performance and ride comfort. Outlander ES models feature standard 16-inch steel wheels and available 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels, both with 215/70R16 tires. Outlander SE, XLS, and GT models have standard 18-in. aluminum-alloy wheels, silver painted on XLS and GT models, with 225/55R18 all-season tires.

Control Under All Driving Conditions

Standard across the Outlander line is Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Traction Control Logic (TCL), and Active Stability Control (ASC).

An electronically controlled 4WD system is available on ES, SE, and XLS models. The Outlander’s proprietary electronic 4WD system, with three driver-selectable full-time modes, provides traction and performance advantages over the on-demand part-time 4WD systems featured on some competitive vehicles. Outlander’s AWC system is designed to enhance handling response and vehicle stability in all conditions, not just on slippery driving surfaces.

Using a drive-mode dial on the center console, the driver can select 2WD, 4WD or LOCK positions. In 4WD or LOCK modes, the system uses an electronically controlled transfer clutch to automatically and seamlessly route variable power to the rear wheels, depending on driving and road surface conditions. In either 4WD or LOCK modes, the system routes more torque to the rear wheels under acceleration.

The Outlander GT features the advanced technology and all-weather capability of the Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system and Hill Start Assist. The S-AWC system utilizes a first-in-class Active Front Differential (AFD) and an electronically controlled center differential system, which distributes driving force intelligently from front to rear and left to right to the front wheels. The driver is able to use a “Tarmac, Snow, or Lock” selector knob to switch between modes, providing full-time traction during any weather situation.

Outlander Safety

The Outlander’s safety package is one of the most comprehensive in the segment and includes an advanced dual-stage front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with occupant sensors, standard front seat-mounted side-impact air bags and side curtain air bags with roll-over sensors (front and second row), plus energy-absorbing head protection interior pillars. All models include as standard an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), as well as a tire pressure monitor system.

New Luxurious And Sporty Design

Evoking Mitsubishi’s sporty background, Outlander has been fit for 2010 with a new front fascia, hood, fenders, rear quarter panel fascia, door mirrors, headlamps, side sill extensions, and front mesh grille. SE, XLS, and GT models feature chrome accents on the side sill extensions and front mesh grille. Capturing the distinctive “jet fighter” front grille synonymous with the Lancer and Lancer Evolution models, Outlander now features bold and aggressive styling to go along with its combination of performance and premium materials.

Inside, the Outlander displays a premium feel with upscale interior fabrics on the ES, SE, and XLS models and available leather seating surfaces on the XLS and GT models. The XLS and GT also feature double-stitched synthetic leather on the dashboard and upper front and rear door trims. Chrome accents surround the air outlet knobs and automatic climate control dials on XLS and GT models. A new high contrast multi-color LCD instrument display is on board to enhance both visibility and the sporty feel of the Outlander SE, XLS, and GT. The sporty GT comes standard aluminum gas and brake pedals and a chrome window beltline accent.

Interior Flexibility and Unique Flat-Fold Tailgate

Five-seat Outlander ES and SE models offer an under-floor storage compartment. The second-row seat employs 60/40 split fold-and-tumble seat backs that expand cargo capacity. With the second row seats up, cargo room measures 36.2 cu. ft., and 14.9 cu. ft. behind the third row seats on three-row models. On the XLS and GT models, the second-row 60/40 seat cushions independently offer a 3.3-in. fore/aft slide range to optimize passenger room or cargo room as needed.

Maximum cargo volume behind the front seats measures 72.6 cu. ft. for all models. Loading bicycles or large packages is made easier by the segment’s first and only flat-fold tailgate. When lowered, the tailgate can also serve as a seat for outdoor activities, with a capacity of 440 lbs. Ample storage spaces include useful bins and compartments, a movable front center console and
door-panel bottle carriers. The Outlander XLS AWC and GT S-AWC models can tow a trailer up to 3,500 lbs. when equipped with the trailer tow package.

Standout Value

Generous standard equipment in all Outlander models includes: Active Stability Control (ASC), Traction Control Logic (TCL), Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), air conditioning, cabin air filter, ambient lighting monitor, cruise control, power windows, locks and mirrors, engine immobilizer and anti-theft alarm system, keyless entry, and an audio system with AM/FM/CD/MP3 playback capability and six speakers. The GT features the 710-Watt (max) Rockford-Fosgate® premium sound system with nine speakers including 10-inch dual-voice coil subwoofer with Punch® control, digital signal processor, 3-band equalization and speed compensated volume.

The Outlander ES model offers the optional comprehensive Convenience Package upgrade. The Convenience Package adds a multitude of upgrades, including color-keyed door handles and side view mirrors, roof rails, rear privacy glass, 16-inch alloy wheels, steering wheel remote audio switches, auxiliary audio inputs, MP3/Aux stereo RCA input jack, Bluetooth2.0® cell phone-ready pre-wire switch (additional equipment required), leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, a driver’s seatback pocket, two additional 12-volt accessory outlets (one in cockpit, one in cargo area), and floor mats.

Standard on the Outlander GT and XLS and available on the SE is the all-new FUSE™ Hands-free Link System featuring Bluetooth 2.0 hands-free calling and streaming music, USB connection for iPod® and MP3 player interfacing, voice-activated music or phone commands, automatic phonebook transfer, and other advanced calling features.

The available Sun and Sound package for Outlander SE and XLS includes a power glass sunroof; the 710-Watt Rockford-Fosgate Punch® premium audio system, SIRIUS Satellite Radio with three months paid subscription, Ultra-Sonic Premium Security Alarm System with motion sensor. The available Luxury Package adds leather seating surfaces (front and second rows), a power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, xenon HID headlamps, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and auto on/off headlamp control.

Outlander XLS and GT models can be factory-equipped with a 40-gigabyte HDD navigation system with music server and new-for-2010 Real-Time Traffic (RDS) and rear view camera. The navigation system features Diamond Lane Guidance, an industry-first development that gives the driver HOV (high-occupancy vehicle) lane information included with directions. Using HOV lanes, where permissible and accessible, can help reduce driving times.

 ---- Specifications

Engine

TRANSMISSION

SUSPENSION

• Front MacPherson Strut
• Front Stabilizer Bar Diameter (mm) 22
• Rear Multi-link
• Rear Stabilizer Bar Diameter (mm) 20

EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS

• Wheelbase (in./mm) 105.1/2670
• Length (in./mm) 183.7/4665
• Width (in./mm) 70.9/1800
• Height (in./mm) 66.1/1680 (w/ roof rails: 67.7/1720)
• Track, Front (in./mm) 60.6/1540
• Track, Rear (in./mm) 60.6/1540
• Min. Ground Clearance (in./mm) 8.5/215

INTERIOR DIMENSIONS

• Passenger Seating Capacity 5 (5 or 7)
• Interior Volume (cu. ft.) 139.4
• Passenger Volume (cu. ft.) 100.4
• Cargo Area (Behind Front Seat) (cu ft) 72.6
• Cargo Area (Behind Rear Seat) (cu ft) 36.2 36.2 39.5
• Cargo Area (Behind 3rd Seat) (cu ft) - 14.9

STEERING

• Type Rack-and-pinion, Variable assisted power
• Ratio 15.97
• Turn Circle – Curb to Curb (ft/m) 34.8/10.6
• Turns – Lock to Lock 3.16

BRAKES

• Front Brake Type Ventilated disc
• Front Brake Diameter (in/m) 11.6/294
• Rear Brake Type Solid disc
• Rear Brake Diameter (in/m) 11.9/302
• ABS 4 sensor, 4 channel with EBD
• Swept Area – front (sq in) 230
• Swept Area – rear (sq in) 194
• Total Swept Area (sq in) 424

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Prices

Packages

Accessories

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Competitors and press reviews

"Truthfully, we didn’t get too much of a chance to play with the all the entertainment goodies, so that will have to wait until we get the car for a full review. Aside from time, the reason we didn’t note the fidelity of the hi-fi (a 710-watt Rockford Fosgate) is because we were having too much fun behind the wheel. We mention this because normally when testing an SUV/CUV, the driving aspect is the least interesting part (lumbers down the road, stops, has turn signals, etc.). You instead occupy the white space with tales of how many children or bags of groceries said truck/thing can handle. But Mitsubishi pulled off an interesting party trick with the new Outlander – they fit it with a version of the Evolutions’s S-AWC system." (Autoblog)

"The Outlander GT steers sharper in tight corners, because when the inside front wheel loses traction, the computer directs more torque to the outside wheel to help turn the car. The rear axle, meanwhile, also gets torque sent to it via the car’s all-wheel-drive system. It all works well, giving the Outlander more steering confidence in fast turns and a better sense of control, if fast turns are places you like to go. If not, know that the GT is going to steer you in the right direction if you overdo it on a freeway on-ramp or are feeling frisky during morning rush hour." (CarAndDriver)

"With a flip of the GT’s paddles, the engine screamed healthily in the upper rpm range. Its dapper 18-in. wheels and beefy Goodyear Eagle LS2 M+S rubber nimbly strode over the pavement and soaked up pesky road imperfections. Aim for a corner with care and the Outlander’s MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear setups keep it well planted and poised throughout. Steering was light, but still communicative, and thorough enough to allow for trouble-free maneuvering in tight parking lot-like situations." (MotorTrend)

Competitors

For 2010 Ford is offering the Escape SUV with a choice of two engines: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a total of 171 hp and 171 lb.-ft. of torque at 4500 rpm and a 3.0-liter V-6 engine with 240 hp. The 2010 Escape is on sale at a price starting from $21,020.

Hyundai Tucson

The 2010 Tucson will be powered by the same Theta II GDI 2.4 Liter DOHC inline four cylinder engine delivering a maximum output of 176 HP and 168 lb-ft of torque. The engine will be mated to either a six speed automatic with SHIFTRONIC manual control or a standard six speed manual transmission. The Tuscon will range from $18,995 for a well equipped GLS six speed manually shifted model and go all the way up to $24,345 for a top of the line Limited model.

Mazda CX-7

The 2010 Mazda CX-7 is being offered with a choice of two engines: a 161 hp, naturally aspirated 2.5 litre four-cylinder and a MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo (direct injection DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder) engine with 244 hp at 5,000 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque at 2,500 rpm. Prices for the CX-7 start at $21,550 and go up to $32,885.

Conclusion

Mitsubishi has finally realized that people want to see a Lancer-inspired front grille on every model from the line-up. And for 2010 the Outlander SUV has got one, and makes it look very cool. But of course this is not a reason to buy a car, no? The Outlander is the perfect car for those of you with a big family (there is a 7-seat version also), but who want, in the same time, a sporty drive.

As we were saying the Outlander GT will offer you a sporty, but in the same time smooth drive, so you children in the back-seats will be ok. It is indeed a sporty SUV, but in the same time it has a lot of, lets say "family spirit": the interior has a decent sound isolation, so the tire noise will not bother you. Also thanks to technologies like MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspensions, or Super All-Wheel Control you will be able to both communicate and control your car.