GSR is a nameplate synonymous with sporty Mitsubishis and now for the 2021 model year, it’s been stuck on the back of an Outlander PHEV, right as the current-generation family hauler enters what will likely be its last year on the market.

In this instance, the GSR badge denotes the addition of inverted Bilstein suspension struts and beefier dampers, complemented all-round by stiffer springs and some darkened styling cues pinched from the now-defunct Outlander Black Edition.

Inside there are some sportier front seats upholstered in a mix of microsuede and synthetic leather, complemented by red stitching throughout and a black headliner.

The point of the GSR according to Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) is to broaden the Outlander PHEV’s appeal by offering a variant aimed specifically at those who want “something a bit sportier to drive than your typical SUV”.

To find out if the brand has succeeded in making a sportier SUV, we spent some time putting the GSR through its paces both in town and on the open road where it’s meant to rise above the rest of the Outlander range.