Not Surprisingly On-Road Performance and Versatility Key Selling Points
Last month, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation unveiled its completely revised
Outlander sport utility, in the metal, at the Tokyo Motor Show, previously released to the media only in photos.
Mitsubishi is claiming the all-new SUV is midsize, due to its new platform and larger overall dimensions, and possibly in Japan, where it was launched in dealerships October 17th this is so, although in North America the Outlander will be positioned as a large compact model.
Its seven-occupant capability puts it in competition with few compact SUV players, Suzuki's XL-7, which is due for a complete overhaul soon, and Toyota's all-new 2006 RAV4 being the only two - so far.
Riding on a larger, stiffer chassis architecture made of high-tensile steel sheeting, which is touted to offer much better crashworthiness than the
previous Outlander, is a more powerful, more efficient aluminum block 2.4-litre MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve-timing Electronic Control system) enhanced four-cylinder, a new global engine that comes as a result of a cooperative relationship with DaimlerChrysler (Dodge Caliber, Jeep Compass/Patriot) and Hyundai (next-generation Elantra/base Sonata and Kia Spectra/Magentis). The new engine will be mated to a "Sport Mode" paddle-shift-actuated 6-speed CVT, that in-turn will drive all four wheels. Mitsubishi's 4WD system is electronically controlled, continuously optimizing front and rear wheel torque depending on road conditions. It includes three dial-activated drive modes, including 2WD, 4WD AUTO and 4WD LOCK. As is now becoming common in the SUV segment, active stability control is also part of the package.
Last month, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation unveiled its completely revised
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| Mitsubishi Motors Corporation unveiled its completely revised Outlander sport utility at the Tokyo Motor Show,(Photo: Mitsubishi Motors) |
Mitsubishi is claiming the all-new SUV is midsize, due to its new platform and larger overall dimensions, and possibly in Japan, where it was launched in dealerships October 17th this is so, although in North America the Outlander will be positioned as a large compact model.
Its seven-occupant capability puts it in competition with few compact SUV players, Suzuki's XL-7, which is due for a complete overhaul soon, and Toyota's all-new 2006 RAV4 being the only two - so far.
Riding on a larger, stiffer chassis architecture made of high-tensile steel sheeting, which is touted to offer much better crashworthiness than the
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| Its seven-occupant capability puts it in competition with few compact SUV players. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors) |