Mitsubishi Outlander (12 on) - Review

Review by Tim Bowdler on 26 Jun 2012

Last Updated: 30 Nov 2012

3.5

The Mitsubishi Outlander is an important model for the Japanese manufacturer. It is now much sleeker looking and, thanks to this new shape, it is more aerodynamic.

Sleeker design has increased fuel economy and lowered emissions, interior space and load space has improved.

Some rivals are better to drive, interior plastics could be of a better quality.

New price range:

£23,879 - £34,229

View all new prices

Summary

Parkers Rating:

3.5 out of 5

The Mitsubishi Outlander is an important model for the Japanese manufacturer. It is now much sleeker looking and, thanks to this new shape, it is more aerodynamic. This has resulted in a 7% reduction in drag when you compare this new version to its predecessor. This is one of the factors that have allowed the Outlander to become more frugal and offer lower CO2 emissions than the previous model.

Spacious and versatile

It is competent both on- and off-road and this version can accommodate seven passengers, although the furthermost rear seats are only really for children. The engine range consists of one 148bhp 2.2-litre diesel engine mated to either a six-speed manual or an automatic six-speed gearbox. To improve stability, traction, fuel economy and emissions Mitsubishi has equipped the Outlander with a Multi-Select four-wheel drive system.

The driving modes

This has three modes: 4WD Eco, 4WD Auto and 4WD Lock. To choose one of these options you push the ‘type’ switch on the central console and this changes the setting of the transmission. 4WD Eco is used when you are driving in an eco-friendly way. This mode powers the car through the front wheels for the majority of the time but when the system senses that the road is treacherous it will divert power to all four wheels. This provides a high level of safety in tricky conditions while constantly managing the fuel economy. In 4WD Auto the Mitsubishi Outlander is in its default setting. It uses 4WD regardless of what road surface you may be driving across. The third mode is 4WD Lock. This is best used when you are off-road and driving on uneven surfaces.

Excellent practicality

This latest version of the Mitsubishi Outlander is also much more practical than the previous generation. There has been an increase of 80mm between the second row and third row hip points, improving leg room, while the load space with the seats in place has increased by 50 litres. This takes the load space to 591 litres. There is plenty of opposition for the Mitsubishi Outlander to conquer. Can the Outlander compete with rivals that include the Honda CR-V, Kia Sorento and the Toyota Rav4? Read the full Mitsubishi Outlander review to find out.