Mitsubishi introduces second-generation Outlander with 220 HP V-6, 6-speed Sportronic(R) transmission and advanced all-wheel control
Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) has introduced the all-new, second-generation Outlander for 2007. The larger 2007 Outlander, which reaches Mitsubishi dealerships in November, offers a compelling blend of driven-to-thrill dynamics, bold styling, five- or seven-passenger versatility, plus numerous user-technology firsts for the compact SUV segment.
The 2007 Outlander is based on a new performance-engineered global platform that will also form the foundation of the next-generation Mitsubishi Lancer and Lancer Evolution models. AllOutlander models for 2007 are powered exclusively by a new 220 hp aluminum MIVEC V-6 engine teamed to a six-speed Sportronic(R) automatic transmission with available magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters - a segment first. Bringing innovation to the segment, the Outlander will be the first PZEV V-6 SUV offered in the U.S.
Each of the three trim lines offered for the 2007 Outlander - the value-minded ES, the well equipped LS and the sport/luxury XLS - come standard with front-wheel drive. The LS and XLS models are available with an optional electronically controlled 4-wheel drive system - All-Wheel Control (AWC). Mitsubishi's All-Wheel Control philosophy for Outlander combines sophisticated electronically controlled 4-wheel drive with Active Skid and Traction Control and a tuned suspension, plus an aluminum roof that lowers the center of gravity for better handling response.
The 2007 Outlander is longer, taller and wider than the model it replaces, with a longer wheelbase (105.1 in. vs. 103.3 in.) that adds to second-row legroom. A wider track, in addition to aiding in vehicle stability, also helps to increase hiproom. Eighteen-inch alloy wheels are standard on XLS models. The result is an SUV that delivers handling dynamics, stability and a level of driver engagement uncommon in the class.
The 2007 Outlander's safety package is one of the most comprehensive in the segment and includes an advanced dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with occupant sensors, standard front seat-mounted side-impact air bags and side curtain air bags (front and second row), plus energy-absorbing head protection interior pillars. All models include as standard an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), as well as a tire pressure monitor system.
"The 2007 Outlander brings Mitsubishi's "Driven to Thrill' performance and design to the compact SUV segment, where we believe its combination of style, performance, versatility and value will make it a standout choice," said Hiroshi Harunari, president and CEO, Mitsubishi Motors North America. "The Outlander also previews new design language for Mitsubishi and strongly hints at the performance potential of this new platform."
A Driver's SUV
Outlander's highly rigid unibody body structure, which makes extensive use of high-strength steel, allows for sport-oriented suspension tuning while also providing a smooth, compliant ride. Front suspension employs strut tower bars enhance lateral rigidity for precise steering response.
The rear multilink suspension system provides an excellent balance of handling performance and ride comfort. Outlander ES and LS models feature standard 16-in. wheels (steel on ES, alloy on LS) with 215/70 R16 tires. On Outlander XLS models, standard 18-in. aluminum-alloy wheels with 225/55 R18 all-season tires enhance handling and style.
The Bold New Look of Mitsubishi
The 2007 Outlander debuts a new Mitsubishi design language that captures the performance-oriented essence of the brand. Clean, sharp lines, featuring a "diamond cut" front end and boldly sculpted fender flares, evoke the athleticism of a sport sedan and the sophistication of a premium SUV. The LED tail lamp clusters give the rear of the vehicle a distinctive appearance.
Privacy tinted rear glass is standard on LS and XLS models. On XLS models, a color-keyed front bumper with silver skid plate extension, silver painted roof rails, door handles and dual exhaust tailpipe outlets emphasize the upscale design. Available for XLS models, xenon HID head lamps enhance road illumination and accentuate the high-tech styling. Outlander LS and XLS models offer a glass power moonroof as part of the Sun and Sound Option Package.
Mitsubishi likewise designed the 2007 Outlander interior to look and feel more like a sport sedan than a typical compact SUV. Smooth forms and sculpted door panels are set off by silver-accent trim, and the deeply contoured front bucket seats and motorcycle-style instrument panel gauges suggest "sports car" more than "sport-utility." The premium upholstery combines a suede-style knit and sporty mesh fabric. Underscoring the 2007 Outlander's attention to utility and usability, all models feature as standard a unique odor-defeating head liner.
Interior Flexibility
Outlander offers ample room for five, or seven in XLS models, which feature a standard underfloor-stowable compact third row seatthat folds flat into the floor when not needed. Five-seat models feature an under-floor storage compartment. The second-row seat features 60/40 split fold-and-tumble seat backs that expand cargo capacity. The second-row 60/40 seat cushions independently offer a 3.15-in. fore/aft slide range to enable optimizing passenger room or cargo room as needed. In addition, the seatbacks also recline independently, allowing second-row passengers to tailor their own comfort.
The load floor is nearly eight inches lower than on the original Outlander, and loading bikes or large packages is made easier by the segment's first flap-fold tailgate. When lowered, the tailgate can also serve as a seat for outdoor activities, with a capacity of 440 lbs. Overall cargo volume behind the front seats measures 72.6 cu. ft., a gain of 12.3 cu. ft. over the first-generation Outlander. With the second row seats up, cargo room measures 39.0 cu. ft., and 14.9 cu. ft. behind the third row seats on XLS models.
Ample storage spaces include useful bins and compartments, a movable front center console and door-panel bottle carriers. The 2007 Outlander 2WD models can tow a trailer up to 2,000 lbs. The 4WD models, which feature an increased-capacity radiator and an automatic transmission cooler, can tow a trailer up to 3,500 lbs.
Premium In-Car Technology
The 2007 Outlander offers many user technologies typically available on premium SUVs, some of which are firsts for the segment. On Outlander XLS models, the standard FAST (Freehand Advanced Security Transmitter) Key entry system allows passive vehicle unlocking and engine start/stop simply by carrying the remote control.
Outlander LS and XLS models can be optionally equipped with an available HDD 30-gigabyte navigation system with music server; a 650-watt Rockford-Fosgate(R) Premium Audio system with digital signal processing; SIRIUS(R) satellite radio with six month pre-paid subscription (also included with Rockford-Fosgate system); hands-free calling through Bluetooth(R) wireless technology, and a DVD rear seat entertainment system with a nine-inch wide-format LCD screen.
Standout Value
Outlander is equipped to provide outstanding value in the segment. Generous standard equipment in Outlander ES includes: Active Skid and Traction Control (ASTC);air conditioning; cabin air filter; ambient lighting monitor; cruise control; power windows, locks and mirrors; engine immobilizer and anti-theft alarm system; keyless entry, and a powerful audio system with AM/FM/CD/MP3 playback capability and six speakers.
The Outlander LS models add a number of exterior and interior enhancements, including: color-keyed folding power side view mirrors; roof rails; rear privacy glass; 16-inch alloy wheels; steering wheel remote audio switches; leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; a driver's seatback pocket; two additional 12-volt accessory outlets (one in cockpit, one in cargo area); and floor mats. The LS also includes the Bluetooth(R) cell phone-ready pre-wire switch.
Outlander XLS models add: 18-inch alloy wheels; Sportronic(R) magnesium steering wheel shifter paddles; underfloor-stowable compact third row seat; automatic climate control system; hands-free Bluetooth(R) cellular phone interface system with voice recognition; FAST Key entry system; fog lights; and cargo area utility bars.
The XLS, in addition to offering all the high-technology upgrades, also offers an available Luxury Package that adds leather seating surfaces (front and second rows), heated front seats, auto-leveling xenon HID headlamps and a power-adjustable driver's seat.
Premium Warranty
Mitsubishi cars and light trucks are backed by a comprehensive new-vehicle limited warranty that covers the vehicle from bumper to bumper for five years/60,000 miles. In addition, the powertrain is covered by a 10-year/100,000 mile limited warranty, while body panels have a seven-year/100,000 mile anti-corrosion/perforation limited warranty.
The program also includes 24-hour emergency roadside assistance with free towing to the nearest authorized Mitsubishi retailer for warranty-related repairs for five years/unlimited miles.
Technical data, features, options and other equipment listed in this release are based on the latest information available at the time of printing and are subject to change without notice.
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for all manufacturing, finance, sales, marketing and research and development operations of the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation in the United States. Mitsubishi Motors sells coupes, convertibles, sedans, a mid-size pickup truck and sport utility vehicles through a network of approximately 540 dealers.
