Consumers looking for a distinctively styled, well engineered, fun to drive compact SUV need not look any further than the 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander. Outlander for 2006 features more standard safety equipment, dramatic styling enhancements, upgraded audio, and more choice with the addition of a new SE (Special Edition) trim line.
The exciting new Outlander SE offers many popular and convenience features, while the LTD model solidifies its upscale position with the addition of automatic climate control. Fashion wise, both the new SE and LTD receive an attractive monochromatic treatment for their fender flares and side air dams. Audio wise, CD/MP3 playback capability is now standard for both SE and LTD trim levels.
"The improvements we've made to the Outlander separate it further from the pack. It has a distinct attitude that Mitsubishi drivers appreciate," said Paul Cummings, President and CEO of Mitsubishi Motor Sales of Canada Inc. "This engaging SUV stays true to our promise of thrilling the senses, while at the same time offering intelligent design and packaging that provide maximum convenience and value."
With a view to safety, all 2006 Outlanders are equipped with 4 channel anti lock braking (ABS) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD). In addition, front seat mounted side impact air bags are now standard equipment on SE and LTD models and available as part of the Security Package for both LS 2WD and 4WD. As well, Outlander's steel unibody construction is designed to inhibit deformation in a collision, while the front and rear sections are engineered as crush zones to help absorb impact energy. These safety features, combined with Mitsubishi advanced safety belt technology, make Outlander a very comfortable place to be.
Fun, Fashion, Functionality
The Outlander image, character and attitude are summed up by an appealing and aggressively styled exterior. Yet colour choices are calm, subtle, classy – befitting a much more expensive SUV. A classic two tone effect is created as the grey bumpers and side sills offset painted body metal. Both SE and LTD boast a monochromatic treatment for the fender flares and side air dams, offset with clear tail light lenses. The Outlander SE adds a silver tone lower side door, front grill insert and roof rack stanchions. Chrome like 17" wheels complete the SE look. Plus Electric Blue is a new SE exterior colour.
Step up to Outlander. Its ideal ride height facilitates entry and exit while still maintaining an elevated driving position. Four doors open wide to reveal a spacious environment with generous legroom. Replete with conveniences and styling details, the interior – much of it covered by textured material – features intuitively placed gauges and controls that are easily monitored. The instrument panel is highlighted by details, such as the finish of the clock trim ring or the round, attractive air vents. Well designed gauges, console compartments, an armrest, these touches give Outlander an upscale feel. Flexible seating and expandable spaces make shopping trips much simpler. The versatile rear cabin, featuring split flat folding seats with adjustable backs, yields a generous cargo area. that can handle a variety of stowage headaches. The rear lift gate can be operated with one hand and swings high to clear taller heads, while a knee height cargo floor eases accessibility for loading. Plus, an optional cargo area tonneau cover, standard on the SE and LTD, keeps valuables out of sight.
Drivetrain and Suspension
Providing power for the stimulating Outlander driving experience is an easy revving 2.4 litre SOHC, 16 valve, MIVEC 4 cylinder engine producing 160 hp and 162 lb ft of torque. LS models offer the choice of a smooth shifting 5 speed manual or an optional Sportronic™ sequential shift 4 speed automatic. SE and LTD feature the Sportronic™ as standard equipment. The Sportronic™ normally operates in fully automatic mode, but the driver may choose to invoke clutchless shifts for more spirited driving. A four position shift lever with a Sports Mode gate allows drivers to experience positive, manually actuated shifts with a simple push or pull. LS 2WD models use a fuel efficient front wheel drive format. All wheel drive models, LS AWD, SE and LTD use a viscous coupling centre differential to distribute power evenly between the front and rear wheels. This full time system greatly improves traction and control in all weather conditions.
The Outlander fully independent suspension uses MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link configuration with trailing arms and coil springs at the rear, for superior vehicle control and a decidedly car like sense of handling. Large all season tires increase Outlander's ride height and improve its performance on rough roads.
Outlander LS, SE and LTD – Trim Levels
Outlander offers amazing versatility and value. Even the most affordable LS models enjoy a host of standard features, including air conditioning, a 140-W Mitsubishi audio system, power windows, door locks and mirrors, rear intermittent wiper, headlight auto off, 60/40 rear seats, dual vanity mirrors, keyless entry and much more.
The Outlander SE sports extras like a tubular roof rack with matching silver stanchions, privacy glass, fog lamps and 17" 5-spoke alloy wheels. Distinctive silver tone accents highlight the grille, doors, roof rack and wheels. Inside, SE adds sporty seat fabric, heated front seats, white faced gauges and analog clock and a leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Also standard on the Outlander SE is a 210-watt Mitsubishi/Infinity® 6 speaker premium audio system with a 6-disc CD changer and MP3 playback capability.
Outlander LTD adds many more features including leather seating surfaces, power sunroof, automatic climate control, unique power window switch panels, auto dimming rearview mirror with compass and temperature readings and heated side outside mirrors.
Source: Mitsubishi
