The recent total redesign of the trend setting Mitsubishi Outlander compact SUV has been extremely well received by Canadians. Outlander is very popular with consumers and, while all Outlander models are selling well, the 2008 introduction of the more fuel efficient 4-cylinder ES models proved to be very timely. The 2009 Outlander, which mechanically is essentially carryover, is looking even better, with the addition of several comfort, convenience and safety features.
New for 2009, all Mitsubishi Outlander models feature redesigned side skirts, heated front seats and a rear cargo cover, for increased privacy, as standard equipment. Additionally, XLS models feature rain sensing front windshield wipers as standard equipment as well as an available rear view camera which is part of the optional Navigation & Entertainment package.
Outlander is available in the following trim levels for 2009. Outlander ES, the most affordable model, comes in both 2WD and 4WD versions and is powered exclusively by Mitsubishi's all new 2.4 litre engine. The two ES models join the Outlander LS and Outlander XLS, both of which feature driver selectable 4WD and V6 power. LS and XLS models also include a fold away third row seat allowing up to seven passengers. For 2009 Outlander models have something for everyone – offering value and technology, performance and safety – all in one very stylish package.
"The new Outlander has been a success story for us from the very beginning" said Koji Soga, President and CEO of Mitsubishi Motor Sales of Canada Inc. (MMSCAN) "And the recent introduction of the fuel efficient ES models has made Outlander even more attractive and affordable for more Canadians".
Powertrain – A perfect combination for whatever your needs
The 2009 Outlander is offered in three trim levels – ES, LS and XLS – and three drivetrain combinations. Outlander ES is available in both FWD and 4WD versions and is powered exclusively by an all new 2.4 litre, DOHC, MIVEC 4 cylinder engine producing 168 hp @ 6000 and 167 lb-ft of torque @ 4100. This silky smooth powerplant is coupled to Mitsubishi's acclaimed Continuously Variable Transmission. CVT transmissions use a proven and ingenious pulley system which smoothly adapts to changing vehicle speeds, allowing engine speed to remain near peak efficiency; which improves both fuel economy and exhaust emissions. Outlander ES competes with other 4-cylinder offerings like Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Nissan Rogue.
LS and XLS models feature the 3.0 litre, SOHC, MIVEC V6 producing 220 hp @ 6250 rpm and 204 lb-ft of torque @ 4000 rpm, mated to a six-speed Sportronic® automatic transmission, and are equipped with 4WD. XLS models also feature magnesium steering wheel mounted shifter paddles. All 4WD Outlanders use Mitsubishi's electronic All Wheel Control system (AWC) – the driver can select 4WD at any time by means of a centre console mounted control knob – combined with Active Stability (ASC) and Traction Control to ensure maximum grip and safety in all road and weather conditions.
Suspension, Wheels and Steering – Rides and drives like a car
Outlander features a MacPherson strut type independent front suspension which also employs a strut tower bar to enhance lateral rigidity for improved steering response. The rear suspension is an advanced multilink and coil system that provides an excellent balance of handling and ride comfort. Stabilizer bars are used at both the front and rear. Steering is power assisted and uses a rack and pinion system with 3.16 turns lock to lock. Brakes are large ventilated discs in the front and solid discs in the rear. Outlander ES and LS feature 16-inch alloy wheels with 215/70 R16 tires. XLS models feature 18-in. alloy wheels with 225/55 R18 all-season tires to further enhance handling and style.
Chassis & Safety – A number one priority
Built on Mitsubishi's global performance platform, Outlander's rigid unibody makes extensive use of high strength steel which allows for sport oriented suspension tuning. This RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) unibody structure disperses energy loads during side and rear collisions and controls distortion, enhancing occupant protection and helping to protect the fuel system in the event of a rear impact. Safety equipment includes an advanced dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with occupant sensors, standard front seat-mounted side-impact air bags and side curtain air bags (front and second row), energy-absorbing head protection interior pillars; child safety locks; LATCH system for CRS; plus front pedestrian impact crumple zones. All Outlander models feature anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and Active Stability (ASC) and Traction Control as well as a tire pressure monitoring system.
Exterior and Interior – Athletic style and thoughtful substance
The 2009 Outlander reflects a Mitsubishi design language that is attracting attention. Clean, sharp lines, redesigned side skirts, a diamond shaped front end and boldly sculpted fender flares evoke athleticism and capture the performance oriented essence and sophistication of the brand. While little styling touches like the rear LED tail lamp cluster add sophistication to an already distinctive appearance.
Privacy tinted rear glass is standard. On XLS models, a color keyed front bumper with silver skid plate extension, silver painted roof rails, body-colour door handles and a standard power sunroof help emphasize the upscale look. Outlander ES 4WD and LS offer a glass power sunroof as part of the optional Sun and Sound Package.
Mitsubishi wanted the Outlander interior to look and feel like a sport sedan and the deeply contoured front bucket seats and motorcycle style instrument panel cluster suggest sports car more than an SUV. The premium upholstery combines a suede style knit and sporty mesh fabric.
Outlander offers ample room for five or seven in LS and XLS models, which feature a standard underfloor, stowable compact third row seat that folds flat into the floor when not needed. The five seat ES models have an under floor storage compartment. The second row seat moves fore and aft to optimize passenger room in the LS and XLS, and features 60/40 split fold-and-tumble seat backs that expand cargo capacity. Additionally, the seatbacks recline allowing second row passengers to tailor their own comfort. Another segment first is Outlander's flap-fold tailgate, which easily folds out making loading bikes or large packages much easier. Moreover, when lowered, the tailgate can also serve as a seat for outdoor activities, with a capacity of 200 kg. (440 lbs). Overall cargo volume behind the front seats measures 2056 litres (72.6 cu. ft.). And with the second row seats up cargo room measures 1025 litres (36.2 cu. ft.), and 422 litres (14.9 cu. ft.) behind the third row seats on LS and XLS models.
Ample storage spaces include useful bins and compartments, a movable front center console armrest and door panel bottle carriers. ES models can tow up to 680 kg or 1500 lbs, while the LS and XLS, which feature an increased capacity radiator and an automatic transmission cooler can tow up to 1,588 kg or 3500 lbs.
Comfort & Convenience
Outlander standard equipment includes: heated front seats • rear cargo cover • 140-watt CD/MP3 player with 6 speakers, digital signal processor and speed compensated volume and equalization control (ES & LS) • MP3/Auxilary stereo input jack • manual air conditioning • power central door and tailgate locks • power windows with auto up/down drivers switch • steering wheel mounted cruise control • steering wheel audio remote control switches • leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob • driver and passenger visor/vanity mirror • two 12 volt accessory outlets • anti theft engine immobilizer • anti theft security alarm system • ambient lighting monitor • cargo tie down utility hooks • remote fuel lid opener • FAST-key entry system with panic alarm (LS & XLS) • Steering wheel Bluetooth™ cell phone ‘ready' pre-wire switch [requires dealer installation of microphone and Bluetooth™ cellular interface module] (ES/LS) • Hands-free Bluetooth™ cellular phone interface system with voice recognition microphone (Std on XLS, Acc on ES/LS) • automatic climate control; leather seating surfaces; power adjustable driver's seat; Sportronic® steering wheel paddle shifters; rain sensing front wipers (XLS) • 6CD/MP3 in dash changer (XLS – NA with Navigation package)
Optional Extra Cost Packages
Navigation & Entertainment Package – XLS only
40 GB HDD Navigation with Digital Music server • Rear seat DVD with 9" wide format LCD monitor • Remote control • Wireless headphone • Video auxiliary input jack • Rearview camera • 115V accessory outlet
Sun & Sound Package – Std on XLS, Pkg on ES 4WD and LS
Sirius® satellite radio with six months complimentary service • 650-Watt (max) Rockford Fosgate Punch® premium sound system with 9 speakers including a 10 inch dual voice coil subwoofer, custom 20 litre sub enclosure, digital signal processor, speed compensated volume and equalization • Power glass sunroof with sunshade.
Source: Mitsubishi
