All-new Mitsubishi Outlander hits the road in South Africa

The all-new Mitsubishi Outlander is ready to wow South Africans as it goes on sale with its combination of modern interior and exterior design, the best in all-wheel drive technologies and convenient seating for seven occupants as it takes up the position of flagship of the Mitsubishi range.

Reimagined and reinvented in every way and the best equipped, the Outlander is without a doubt the most thoughtfully engineered vehicle that Mitsubishi has ever developed and represents a new era for the iconic Japanese brand.

The Outlander is based on an all-new platform which has facilitated the inclusion of a variety of new technologies, including the latest generation four-wheel drive systems, the ability to accept a hybrid drivetrain as well as improvements in quality in every area.

“With cutting edge features, improved quality and rally bred performance built into its DNA, the bigger bolder, next generation Outlander is nothing short of revolutionary for our iconic brand,” says Jeffrey Allison, General Manager: Marketing at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA).

Since its global launch the all-new Outlander has received a wide variety of awards including the 2022 iF design award, the 2022 Australian Good Design Award, a five star rating in the Japan New Car Assessment Program, Technology Car of the Year in the 2021-2022 Japan Car of the Year awards and most recently Money’s Best for safety award in the Plug-In Hybrid SUV category and it is now ready to make its impact on Africa.

The culmination of a new design language

The all-new Outlander features a bold exterior design based on the Japanese product concept of I-Fu-Do-Do, which translates into authentic and majestic. The exterior is characterised by thick, horizontal proportions which along with jet tail fin pillars inspired by the vertical tail of airplanes, result in a bold, fixating presence.

When viewed from the front a modern design that incorporates Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield creates a substantial presence that is accentuated by LED front fog lamps, LED sequential turn signals and daytime running lights as well as a front skid plate. This theme is continued at the rear thanks to a similar skid plate, rear spoiler and LED high-mounted brake light. 20-inch alloy wheels and silver roof rails are the cherry on top of a vehicle that is sure to turn heads.

The go to match the show

The all-new Outlander is fitted with Mitsubishi’s latest generation 2.5-litre Duel VVT DOHC engine that utilises Direct-Injection to produce an exhilarating 135kW at 6 000rpm and 245Nm at 3 600rpm.

This engine is coupled to a simulated eight-speed CVT transmission that delivers effortless acceleration from any speed, slicker gear changes and a refined driving experience. Drivers are able to tailor their experience via a variety of drive modes labelled Eco, Normal, Tarmac, Gravel, Snow and Mud which alter parameters including throttle sensitivity, shift patterns and the AWD system and ensure power delivery in the safest, most efficient manner.

“The improved levels of engine power and torque as well as revised gearbox software tuning have resulted in an engine and gearbox package that work in harmony to create a driving experience that leaves nothing to be desired,” adds Allison.

Designed to always keep the engine in the sweet spot, the CVT also ensures improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions, with the Outlander, which is fitted with a 55-litre fuel tank, using just 8,1 litres per 100km on the combined cycle.

In addition to its modern design the Outlander lives up to the legendary off-road pedigree that Mitsubishi models are known for thanks to 210mm of ground clearance and the addition of Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC). This innovative electronically controlled AWD system uses intuitive sensors to maximise vehicle control, distributing power to all four wheels, the system offers drivers six drive modes with also which to adjust the electronically controlled four-wheel drive system, allowing the driver to find the perfect balance of economy and performance according to their particular needs or terrain. S-AWC supplies optimal torque to the rear wheels when necessary for enhanced traction, stability and control. The system also works seamlessly with Active Yaw Control, which controls the braking and distribution of torque between left and right wheels for enhanced safety and traction in tricky driving conditions.

Unrivalled interior functionality and comfort

The cabin of the all-new Outlander oozes luxury and comfort thanks to the utilisation of soft touch surfaces and premium materials. Features such as quilted leather door inserts, a black headliner and pillars convincingly elevate the premium interior offering. The leather wrapped four-spoke steering wheel is tilt and telescopic adjustable and is home to cruise control buttons and paddle shifters.

The interior user experience features the latest in technology displayed onto a 12,3-inch Digital Driver Display which is flanked by an eight-inch Smartphone-link display on GLS models or a nine-inch Smartphone-Link Display Audio display with navigation on Aspire models. Both systems incorporate Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring functionality. A six-speaker sound system and three-zone automatic climate control ensure passenger comfort and entertainment.

The Outlanders exterior length translates into an exceptionally spacious interior that has also been well packaged to take maximum advantage of that available space. The interior layout offers multiple configurations for any and every loading need thanks to 60/40 split rear seats with flat-folding function via a one-touch folding lever and flat-folding rear seats.

The all-new Outlander leaves nothing to be desired

GLS models of the all-new Outlander feature an extremely high level of standard specification which includes highlights such as a keyless operation system with engine switch, front and rear park distance control, a rear-view camera, heated synthetic leather seats with suede combination and an automatic tailgate.

Aspire models gain leather seats, an eight-way power adjustable, power lumbar support and memory function driver’s seat, a power sliding panoramic sunroof.

“Mitsubishi Motors’ safety concept underpinned the product development with the aim of promoting a mobility society with zero traffic accidents, with the company fully committed to developing and implementing active and passive safety technologies and protection,” adds Allison.

Featuring Mitsubishi Motor’s RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body, the all-new Outlander incorporates ultra-high tensile strength steel around the passenger compartment which is bolstered by a combination of a high impact-absorbing front body structure and a high-durability, low deformation passenger compartment structure. Seven SRS airbags are standard fitment on all models.

In addition, all Outlander models are fitted with ABS brakes, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Emergency Stop signal System, Hill Start Assist and Hill Decent Control as well as Active Stability and Traction Control.

Active safety technology includes a variety of advanced driver assistance features such as dusk Sensing LED headlights that automatically altering the illumination range and brightness of the headlights.

“The all-new Outlander is a fitting flagship for the local Mitsubishi range and the design and quality give customers an idea of what to expect as Mitsubishi South Africa prepares to refresh their entire model range over the next 12 months,”  concludes Allison.

Model range and pricing

Mitsubishi Outlander GLS:            R729 995

Mitsubishi Outlander Aspire:         R759 995

Warranty and service plan information

Manufacturer’s Warranty: 3 year/ 100 000km. Road Side Assistance: 5 year Unlimited Mileage. Service Plan: 5 year/ 90 000km. Service intervals: Every 15 000km

Mitsubishi will also make a number of accessory packages available, including a body kit that will allow customers to personalise and equip the Outlander to their taste and needs with parts that feature the same fit and finish as factory fitted components.