New Model of Mitsubishi Outlander
The model tested is available with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine, which is producing a total output of 150 HP at 6,000 rpm and it has a peak torque of 195 HP available at 4,100 rpm. This may not seem like much but the truth is that the SUV doesn’t feel heavy when accelerating and unless you live up in the mountains, having to tackle on steep roads on a daily basis, you will be satisfied with what it has to offer. Power is being sent to the permanent all-wheel drive through a CVT, which, in my opinion, is even better than most double-clutch transmissions. The 0 to 100 km/h acceleration is done in 12.6 seconds and top speed stands at 185 km/h.
Fuel Consumption
The Japanese based automaker says that the 2.0 MIVEC CVT version of the new Outlander generation has a fuel consumption of 5.7 liters / 100 km on the highway and 8.0 liters / 100 km in the city, with an average of 6.5L. The trip computer indicated an average of approximately 7L / 100 km on a short trip outside the city, with the climate control permanently on, and with the AC turned off, it will do about 6.6L – 6.7L, so the difference isn’t shocking to the official number. In the city, the Outlander is averaging about 10.3 L / 100 km and this is with the stop/start system on. Push the button to turn it off and hit the throttle like you would in a normal diesel-powered vehicle and the trip computer will indicate approximately 13.8 L / 100 km. This is quite good because I was expecting something in the average of 17L – 18L, considering the fact that it’s a heavy SUV with permanent four-wheel drive.
The Ride
Besides the different engine and the lack of some optionals, the Outlander 2.0 MIVEC CVT is exactly the same with the 2.2 Di-D which we tested here, so the ride is still comfortable. The same “déjà vu” sense kicks in when talking about its handling while cornering but the overall feel is positive. You can even take it off-roading but watch out for hill climbs because it may be tricky to get to the top.
Interior Design
When compared to the previous generation, the looks have been changed. More than 50 percent of the time because the older model was simply better. Don’t get me wrong, the new Outlander is not that bad either, but it lacks something, something which the previous one had. The driving position is good, the seats are comfortable, the beige fabric material on them is surprisingly good, but you may want to order a retractable sunroof, because you will regret later not choosing it.
Safety
The new Mitsubishi Outlander generation has scored a total of five stars when it was tested by the Euro NCAP, with 94% in Adult Occupant, 83% in Child Occupant, 64% in Pedestrian Safety and 100% in Safety Assist.
When it comes to mid-size SUVs destined for everyday use I’m a fan of diesel-powered ones and the moment I stepped into the petrol version I thought this would never sell, and if it would, than the owner will have to be an old man who had the impression he saved some money. False. The Outlander 2.0 MIVEC is a good choice, there is enough torque, the fuel consumption is surprisingly good for a permanent all-wheel drive vehicle powered by a petrol engine and you can forget about the diesel engine noise which will amplify over the years and make your steering wheel and plastics in the cabin feel like cheap massage objects. Oh, and yes, don’t order the adaptive cruise control and, if you can, you might as well drop the rain-sensing wipers, as they are useless. Besides this, go for the petrol-powered Outlander, equipped with the brilliant CVT and you won’t regret it
inautonews
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