With more people maintaining an active lifestyle, compact crossover vehicles are becoming more popular these days. So it is no wonder why car manufacturers like Toyota, Honda, Ford, and the like are always trying to come up with vehicles to cater to this demand. Mitsubishi is no different. Its bet in this race is the 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander.
With the legendary Lancer Evolution behind some of its DNA, you kind of know that the Outlander is going to impress a few crowds. Expect to get better fuel economy and exceptional features in the Mitsubishi Outlander.
Interior & exterior
The Mitsubishi Outlander impresses with its interior although the presence of cheap-looking plastics in some spots lessens this appeal somehow. Naturally, the nicest looking interior can be found in the upscale XLS and GT variants- what with the delicate to the touch upper instrument cluster and the double-stitch details on the door trims that are simply attention-grabbers.
It is cool that the Outlander is enabled with the Fuse system as it allows you to control your iPod or call your friends through voice commands. It certainly is a fun addition and adds to the general appeal of the 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander.
On the downside, the steering wheel is not telescoping-enabled so taller drivers may have a harder time driving it.
The third-row seating that is available in SE and up variants are really too small and cramped to be fully functional. It really makes one to wonder if those seats were meant to be used or if they were just added for the extra publicity mileage.
Performance
The low end ES and SE variants come with a 2.4L four-cylinder engine which generates 168hp and 167 lb-ft of torque. The XLS and GT models are equipped with a 3.0L V6 that revs 230hp and 215 lb-ft of torque.
The ES and SE are given a CVT while the XLS and GT are using the conventional six-speed automatic transmission. For all models, a manual is available.
AWD is an option for the SE, while the GT is AWD upfront. The XLS is a front-drive.
In 0-60mph acceleration tests, the GT was clocked at 7.9 sec performance. Fuel economy is pegged at 25 mpg for combined city/highway for the in-line four, 22 mpg for the V6 and 24 mpg for the AWD inline-4 and AWD V6 is 21 mpg.
All these engine specs translate to a crossover vehicle that is remarkably fun and spirited to drive. Handling is good, and the sport-tuned suspension mated to a nicely weighted steering wheel result to an exhilarating driving experience.
Although not the most powerful crossover vehicle around, the 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander still gives fast and responsive acceleration. To top it all up, the AWD makes the car grip the road firmly even in the presence of snow or mud.
Trims
The basic ES model is supplied with an inline-four engine and sports 16-inch steel shoes. Usual standards like air con, cruise control, all-power controls, roof rails and six-speaker audio system with CD and auxiliary jack are also provided.
Go to the XLS territory to get a powerful 3.0L V6 engine. All the above accessories are thrown in as well as xenon headlights, Fuse voice interface, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, etc. You may also choose to upgrade your trim level by getting a Premium, Sun and Sound, or Touring package.
Safety & reliability
Safety features are ABS, airbags, head restraints, stability control, and others.
Recent crash tests are very good as it received 5 stars. J.D. Power and Associates Predicted Reliability grade for this car is “mediocre”. Warranty is 5 years or 60,000 miles.
Competition
Mazda CX 7 (MSRP $21,990; 20 city / 28 hwy), Toyota RAV 4 (MSRP $22,475; 22 city / 28 hwy), Honda CR-V (MSRP $21,895; 21 city / 28 hwy), Chevrolet Equinox (MSRP $22,995; 22 city / 32 hwy) are just some of the competition of the Outlander.
Pros & Cons
The Outlander has an agile and spirited handling which makes this car fun to drive. Additionally, it has an ample storage space and the lift-gate design of its read door makes access for storage easy.
The biggest drawback to the otherwise superb record of the Outlander is third-row seat which is small even for kids. The non-telescoping steering wheel is a turn off as the cheap plastic used in the interior.
Overall Rating
72 out of 100
What others say:
“One of the older vehicles from Mitsubishi, the Outlander crossover is also one of their better efforts.”Car Connection
“This crossover has quick and communicative steering feel with moderate body lean in turns. GT handles best and exhibits little body lean.”Consumer Guide
“The ride is fairly stiff and road noise is pronounced, but better in the four-cylinder version. Interior fit and finish is a bit unimpressive. ”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“The 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander is more like a sport-utility than a boring old crossover, and that’s a good thing.”Edmunds
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Crossover SUV | Base Price: $22,345.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.6 gallons (62.8 liters) | MPG: 23 city / 28 hwy |
| Length: 183.7 in. (466 cm) | Width: 70.9 in. (180 cm) |
| Height: 66.1 in. (168 cm) | Wheel Base: 105.1 in. (267 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3384 lbs (1535 kg) | Ground Clearance: 8.5 in. (21.5 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 36.2 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 2.4L DOHC MIVEC Inline 4 | Displacement: 2360 cc |
| Horsepower: 168 HP | Max RPM: 6000 RPM |
| Torque: 167 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm | Transmission: Automatic – CVT Sportronic® |
| 0-60 mph: 8.4 seconds | Max Towing Capacity: 1500 lbs (680 kgs) |
| Option:Outlander SE 2WD | MSRP: $23,345; MPG: xx city / xx hwy |
| Option:Outlander SE AWC | MSRP: $24,845; MPG: xx city / xx hwy |
| Option:Outlander GT 2WD, V6 | MSRP: $25,895; MPG: xx city / xx hwy |
| Option:Outlander GT AWC, V6 | MSRP: $27,895; MPG: xx city / xx hwy |
