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2010 New York Autoshow: Mitsubishi unveils a new compact crossover

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Luc Gagné
A new Mitsubishi compact crossover utility vehicle (CUV) will make its North American debut  tomorrow at the New York International Auto Show. Known as RVR in Japan and ASX in Europe, this vehicle had its world premiere a few weeks ago in Geneva.

This yet unnamed "baby Outlander" rides on a variant of the Lancer platform, which in turn is a shortened variant of the regular Outlander. The latter and the new CUV share the same wheelbase, although there’s a 35-cm difference in length and 6.5-cm difference in height. Ground clearance is roughly identical with only 1.5 cm separating the two.

The newest member of the Mitsubishi family borrows its 148hp 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, continuously-variable transmission (CVT) and electronically-controlled AWD system from the brand’s compact sedan. A PZEV model producing 143hp will also be offered, in the USA at least.

The interior accommodates four adults, although an occasional fifth passenger can join in. On the other hand, the company made huge sacrifices with regard to cargo capability. There’s about half the amount of room available in the standard, 5-seat Outlander.

The 2011 Mitsubishi CUV is scheduled to hit showrooms this fall. Pricing will be announced closer to market release, but we expect this model to aggressively rival the likes of Nissan Rogue, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage.

As reported by Mitsubishi
New York - The all-new 2011 crossover utility vehicle enhances the Outlander family with a fresh blend of stylish design, premium features, and high capability. With enhanced fuel efficiency, class-leading aerodynamics and an available All-Wheel Control (AWC) system, the new vehicle brings premium value to the entry-level crossover utility vehicle market. The crossover gets a 148hp MIVEC-equipped 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a five-speed manual transmission in value-rich ES models. A six-speed magnesium paddle-shifted CVT transmission is available in ES models and is standard in premium SE models.

Photo: Philippe Champoux/Auto123.com

With a highly efficient four-cylinder engine and a compact, lightweight body, the entry level CUV is designed from the ground up for "smart" performance. Recycled plastic front fenders give the crossover increased dent resistance and a reduction in weight. Combined with an energy-recycling regenerative braking system, eco-friendly technology such as the parasitic drag-reducing electric power steering (EPS), thinner body steel, low rolling resistance tires, and wind tunnel-tested aerodynamics help it reach the 31mpg mark on the highway.

Balanced between efficiency and traction, the SE's available AWC electronically controlled 4WD system is engineered for any driving situation. AWC uses a driver selectable knob for 2WD, 4WD Auto and 4WD Lock modes. With the ability to distribute power evenly and still maintain high fuel economy, AWC increases handling, stability, and traction through all conditions.

Just over a foot shorter than the Outlander model, the new CUV shares its sibling's capable stance and feature-rich package, all while adding increased fuel economy. A dynamic new shape and refined aerodynamics give it a class-leading 0.33 coefficient of drag, beating the Hyundai Tucson, Mazda CX7, and Subaru Forester. This slippery shape also helps increase both fuel efficiency and acceleration.

Accented with Mitsubishi's distinctive "jet fighter" front grille treatment, the new crossover comes equipped with LED rear combination taillights and the SE model features Super wide range High Intensity Discharge (S-HID) headlamps. With two new exterior paint options, Mercury Gray and Laguna Blue, and available 18-inch alloy wheels on SE models, the new crossover is available in a variety of exciting exterior combinations.

With a curb weight of just 3,042-lb., the entry-level CUV weighs less than the Nissan Rogue (3,281-lb.), Hyundai Tucson (3,179-lb.), and Mazda CX7 (3,496-lb.). This reduction in weight was achieved through the use of thinner steel in the hood, tailgate, and doors, recycled plastic front fenders, and new interior materials. In addition to being lightweight, the CUV's structure is also rigid and safe, with a Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body design and multiple crush zones.


Luc Gagné
Luc Gagné
Automotive expert
  • More than 30 years of experience as an automotive journalist
  • Over 59 test drives in the past year
  • Attended over 150 new vehicle launches in the presence of the brand's technical specialists