The 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander is a compact crossover and a version signaling a fresh start for Mitsubishi. It represents the company’s big step in terms of production of a new design language and efficiency.
The Outlander comes with new and enhanced features from its predecessor, ranging from a more efficient engine and better aerodynamics, to stylish exterior.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: SUV | Base Price: $22,695.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.6 gallons (63l) | MPG: 23 city / 28 hwy |
| Length: 183.7 in. (466.5 cm) | Wheel Base: 105.1 in. (267 cm) |
| Height: 66.1 in. (168 cm) | Width: 70.9 in. (180 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3384 lbs (1535 kg) | Ground Clearance: 8.5 in. (21.5 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 36.2 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 7 people |
| Engine: 2.4L MiVEC Inline 4 DOHC | Compression Ratio: 10.5: 1 |
| Horsepower: 168 HP | Max RPM: 6000 RPM |
| Torque: 167 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm | Transmission: CVT Sportronic® |
| Option:SE | MSRP: $23,345; MPG: 23 city / 28 hwy |
| Option:GT 3.0L V6 | MSRP: $25,895; MPG: 19 city / 26 hwy |
Engine & Performance
The Mitsubishi Outlander, available in three trim levels: the ES, SE, and GT, and comes with two engine options. The SE and ES trims are fitted with a 2.4L inline 4-cylinder, generating 168 hp and 167 lbs-ft of torque. This engine is connected to a standard Continuously Variable Transmission. The GT trim on the other hand comes with a 3.0L V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift capability. The V6 produces 230 horsepower and 215 lbs-ft of torque.
Front wheel drive is standard in all trims, although a customer can opt for the available AWD. Fuel economy for 2-wheel drives with the 4-cylinder powertrain is estimated at 23/28 mpg city/highway. 2-wheel drives with V6 get 19 mpg in cities and 26 mpg on highways.
An AWD with 4-cylinder nets a fuel economy of 22/27 mpg city/highway, and 19/25 mpg when fitted with a V6. Another key performance feature of the 2012 Outlander is the nimble handling that exhibits little body lean on turns and twists.
Exterior
The Outlander comes with an upgraded look, which is well executed on its rakish body. The ES trim is equipped with 16-inch steel wheels, remote key-less entry and roof rails as standard exterior features. In addition, the SE comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, turn-signal mirrors, and key-less entry, fog lights, sunroof, and auto-dimming rear view mirror.
The GT model is equipped with automatic xenon headlights, soft-touch door and dash trims, and automatic wipers; in addition to other exterior features of the SE.
Interior
The stylish exterior is complimented by a stylish cabin with spacious cargo hold and easy-to-use controls. The cabin has a masculine and austere feel with leather accents that beats most rival crossovers. All trims are fitted with standard features that include: steering wheel-mounted audio controls, AM/FM/CD audio system, and power windows.
In addition to these, the Outlander is fitted with a flip-down tailgate that can support a maximum weight of 440lbs. The SE and GT models featuring 3 rows seats come with cargo space of 14.9 cubic ft, which increases to 39.5 cubic ft after folding the third row. 2-row models on the other hand feature a cargo space of 36.2 cubic ft.
When the second and third row seats are folded, the Outlander offers its maximum cargo hold of 72.6 cubic ft.
Safety & Reliability
Major safety features are standard on all 2012 Outlander trims. Some of these features are: stability control, full-length side curtain airbags, anti-lock disk brakes, front seat side airbags, child safety locks, 4-wheel ABS, driver and passenger airbags and traction control.
The Outlander beats most of its rivals when it comes to reliability. To start with, it is backed with a basic warranty of 5 years or 60,000 miles as well as a 10-year or 100,000 mile engine warranty. You can also benefit from a 1 year or 12,000 miles tune-up adjustment, 7-year or 100,000 mile rust protection as well as road assistance for the first five years.
Pros
- Unique tailgate design
- Large cargo space
- Extended warranty
- Sporty handling
Cons
- Small optional third row
- Cheap interior materials
- Sluggish standard and optional engines
- Steering wheel does not telescope.
The 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander is a good choice for people shopping for a family crossover. It is decent enough to ride in, and with its well executed interior, versatility and space make it a great choice for big families.
The Outlander joins the Chevy Equinox (MSRP $23,755; 26 city / 32 hwy), the Honda CRV (MSRP $22,695; 26 city / 31 hwy), and Toyota RAV4 (MSRP $22,650; 24 city / 28 hwy) in the Compact SUV market.
Overall Rating
What others say:
“An aging crossover built in Japan, the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander is a crossover that was one of the company’s better efforts when it was launched, and hangs in there now, likely in its final model year.”Car Connection
“This crossover has quick and communicative steering feel with moderate body lean in turns. GT handles best and exhibits little body lean. Outlander is particularly susceptible to highway-speed crosswind…”Consumer Guide
“The Outlander is competitive among small SUVs. Its standard four-cylinder engine is mated to a CVT and delivers modest acceleration and good 22 mpg overall.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“If you are looking for a small SUV with one of the most spacious cargo areas in the category, an optional third-row seat and arguably the best all-wheel-drive system available for a non-luxury vehicle, the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander is worth your consideration.”KBB
“With assertive sheet metal and sharp handling, the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander is the edgy alternative to the typical compact crossover.”Edmunds
