Within the highly competitive world of compact SUVs, products evolve quickly, offering customers greater convenience, capability and fun behind the wheel. For 2005, the Mitsubishi Outlander, already one of the better handling vehicles in its segment, has evolved a bit more to help enhance the experience behind the wheel.
Last year, Outlander added a more powerful 2.4-liter MIVEC four-cylinder engine. With variable valve timing, the new engine improved the Outlander's dynamics to help compliment the compact SUV's smart, eye-catching styling, intelligent design and thoughtful packaging. For 2005, the availability of a 5-speed manual transmission (LS model), standard disc brakes on all models, advanced airbags and standard 17-inch wheels (XLS and Limited trim level), promise to help deliver a safer, more engaging driving experience. The 2005 Outlander line-up also is augmented by a new Limited trim level that packs numerous desirable appearance and convenience features into a value-driven package.
"Beyond its stylish image, and flexible design, the improvements made to the 2005 Outlander are intended to appeal to the growing ranks of entry-level SUV consumers who are looking for a distinct, feature packed vehicle," said Rich Gilligan, president and chief executive officer of Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA).
FUNCTION AND UTILITY
The Outlander's ideal ride height facilitates hassle-free entry and exit while maintaining the empowering, elevated driving position that SUV owners prefer. The Outlander's four doors open wide to reveal a spacious passenger environment with generous legroom. A roomy cargo bay is ready to tackle any stowage challenge whether it's gear for a weekend trip to the beach, the monthly run to the big box stores or simply getting the kids to school. For individuals in pursuit of an adventure less urban, optional tubular roof racks easily can be adapted to carry bikes, surfboards, skis or just about any equipment that adventure requires. The Outlander, available in two- and four-wheel drive configurations, is ready for use in any climate.
STYLISH EXTERIOR
The Outlander's image, character and attitude are encapsulated by an appealing exterior design that offers a unique and aggressively styled alternative in the segment. The Outlander's exterior color choices include appealing hues that would be at home on the skin of a larger S.U.V. A two-tone effect is created as the Outlander LS and XLS' gray plastic bumpers and side sills offset painted sheet metal. The new for 2005 Limited trim level receives a monochromatic treatment for the fender flares and side air dams, off set with clear tail light lenses. Also for 2005, all Outlander models receive a rear spoiler housing a clear CHMSL lens, and a larger, revised tailgate handle. Two exterior hues, Graphite Gray and Electric Blue, are new for 2005.
The Outlander maintains a drag coefficient of 0.43, which is on par or better than most offerings in its class. The Outlander's sheetmetal body construction also involves many new processes to improve fit, finish and safety. For instance, both the outer and inner door panels use a single-piece pressed steel construction that improves door fit and rigidity.
SPACIOUS, REFINED INTERIOR
On the inside, the Outlander is a compact SUV replete with all the conveniences and interior styling details one would expect to find in a more upscale model. The interior - much of it covered by textured material - features intuitively placed gauges and controls that are easily monitored from the raised, ergonomically adjusted driving position.
In an effort to reduce NVH (noise vibration harshness), Mitsubishi engineers enlisted countermeasures to minimize cabin noise levels, such as thick front-deck and fender insulation. The dash panel insulator's thickness also was increased to keep engine noise in the engine compartment. A large intake resonator reduces engine noise. The result is a whisper quieter cabin for the Outlander.
The Outlander's roomy and inviting interior was designed to create an appealing, comfortable environment with conveniently accessible functions. To maximize interior space, Outlander offers an optional outer-slide style sunroof that creates more headroom. The instrument panel is highlighted by detail-oriented items such as the chrome-like finish of the analog clock's trim ring and the round, easy-to-use air vents. Front console compartments, an armrest, and easy-to-read round gauges - which also include an LCD display of the automatic transmission's sports mode status - give the Outlander's cockpit an upscale feel.
The Outlander's flexible seating and expandable space make trips to the hardware store or driving range that much simpler. The versatile rear cabin area - featuring split, flat-folding rear seats with adjustable backs - yields a generous cargo area that can handle a variety of stowage headaches. The hydraulically assisted rear lift gate can be operated with one hand and swings high to clear taller heads, while a knee-height cargo floor, which hides the spare tire, eases the lift-over and accessibility of loading. An optional cargo-area tonneau cover, standard on the XLS and Limited model, keeps goods out of sight. When not in use, the cover can be stored under the cargo floor lid.
DRIVETRAIN AND CHASSIS
All Outlander models are powered by a 2.4-liter MIVEC, (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control) 16-valve, inline four-cylinder engine. For 2005, Outlander's LS trim level offers a 5-speed manual transmission, the F5M42 model also found in Lancer Ralliart. The four-speed Sportronic(TM) transmission is optional on LS and standard equipment on the XLS and Limited trim levels. With the aid of variable valve timing, the MIVEC engine achieves a maximum of 160 horsepower, and 162 pound-feet of torque. Tuned to achieve peak torque early in the rev range, the responsive engine - which generates as much torque as some V-6 engines - makes the Outlander more than competitive with other vehicles in the small S.U.V. segment.
The engine's exhaust system is designed to improve performance while reducing exhaust noise levels and vibration. The pipe sections of the Outlander's exhaust system are made of stainless steel for improved durability and rust resistance. Adding further refinement, the engine is mounted to the sub-frame using a four-point inertial axis system with liquid filled mounts that reduce engine vibration and improve ride quality.
The Sportronic(TM) transmission can operate in traditional fully automatic mode, or the driver may choose to actuate clutchless shifts for more spirited driving. The INVEC-II programming of the electronically controlled automatic transmission "learns" a driver's throttle inputs and adapts to them by modifying its shift pattern. A four-position shift lever with a Sports-mode-gate allows drivers to experience sporty, positive-feeling manually actuated shifts with a simple push or pull of the shift lever.
Outlander buyers can select either a responsive front-wheel drive format or full-time all-wheel-drive power delivery that improves traction and handling on slick or uneven surfaces. The all-wheel drive system relies on a viscous coupling center differential to distribute power evenly (50:50) between the front and rear wheels.
SUSPENSION
The Outlander's suspension utilizes MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link, coil spring arrangement at the rear for superior vehicle control and stability with a decidedly light, car-like sense of handling. The suspension employs coil springs optimally tuned to strike the best balance between handling and ride quality. The rear multi-link design uses a trailing arm and three separate control arms for each wheel to ensure stability over a variety of surfaces. Large 225/60R16 or P215/55R17 (XLS and Limited) tires increase the Outlander's ride height and improve its performance over rough roads. This confidence-inspiring, all-wheel independent suspension is mated with a rigid, computer-designed Outlander unibody that maximizes the suspension's effort and effectiveness.
BRAKES AND SAFETY
The passenger cabin of the Outlander's strong unibody is designed to help inhibit deformation in the event of a collision, while the front and rear sections are engineered as crush zones to help absorb impact energy. Driver and front passenger advanced dual-stage airbag systems, optional front seat-mounted side impact airbags and optional anti-lock brakes (ABS) add active measures of vehicle safety. The headrest position is optimized to help reduce the potential for neck injury in the event of a collision.
For 2005, all Outlanders come equipped with four-wheel disc brakes. The optional anti-lock brakes come equipped with the EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution) system that optimizes rear brake power in accordance with road and load conditions, offering performance and benefits additional to the ABS. Another safety enhancements for 2005 include daytime running lights as standard equipment on all Outlander models.
TRIM LINES: LS, XLS, AND LIMITED
The Outlander offers owners amazing versatility and value with a wide range of features and optional equipment. Available in front- and full-time all-wheel drive, the Outlander is available in three trim levels: LS, XLS and the new Limited. The LS trim level includes multiple standard exterior features like color-keyed door handles, gray-painted bumpers and side sills, as well as air conditioning, a 140-watt CD audio system, metallic-painted climate control knobs, power windows, power door locks and mirrors, rear intermittent wiper, 60/40 reclining rear seats and dual vanity mirrors. Alloy wheels and an option package including tubular roof rack, keyless entry, cargo cover and floor mats are available on Outlander LS models.
The Outlander XLS improves on the LS model's exterior with such extras as a tubular roof rack, color-keyed side mirrors, privacy glass, fog lamps and 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels. The XLS interior adds a white-faced instrument, and a six-speaker 140-watt audio system, a matching white-faced analog clock, see-through headrests, rear privacy glass, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Options for the Outlander XLS include a Sun and Sound Package that offers a premium six-speaker, 210-watt Mitsubishi/Infinity sound system with 6-CD changer and MP3 playback capability, and a power glass sunroof.
For 2005 the new Outlander Limited trim level adds heated leather seating surfaces, unique power window switch panels and center panel, unique headlamps, auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass and temperature readings, front seat-mounted side impact airbags and heated side mirrors, power sunroof, and a monochromatic fender flare and side air dam treatment.
WARRANTY AND MANUFACTURING
As part of Mitsubishi Motors "Best-Backed Car" program, all models 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 "Best-Backed Car" 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.
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for all manufacturing, finance, sales, marketing, research and development operations of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation in the United States and Canada. Mitsubishi Motors sells coupes, convertibles, sedans and sport utility vehicles through a network of approximately 650 dealers. For more information, contact the Mitsubishi Motors News Bureau at (888) 560-6672 or visit media.mitsubishicars.com.
