Mitsubishi updates Outlander for 2019

MITSUBISHI Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) has introduced its updated Outlander line-up, excluding plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants, with the mid-size SUV featuring refreshed exterior styling, tweaked steering and suspension, an upgraded interior, and a range-wide $300 price increase.

As before, the non-PHEV Outlander line-up consists of 10 variants across four grades – ES, ES ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assist Systems), LS and Exceed – and offers the options of five or seven seats and front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD).

The five-seat ES FWD opens the line-up from $29,290 before on-road costs with a 110kW/190Nm 2.0-litre petrol and manual gearbox, while the 124kW/220Nm 2.4-litre petrol with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and seven seats commands a $2000 premium. Opting for AWD adds another $2500.

Meanwhile, the ES ADAS grade is exclusively available with the 2.4-litre petrol, CVT and five seats, either with FWD ($32,790) or AWD ($35,290).

The seven-seat LS is offered with the 2.4-litre petrol and CVT in FWD ($33,790) and AWD ($36,290) forms, while the latter can be upgraded to a 110kW/360Nm 2.2-litre diesel with an automatic transmission for another $3500.

Rounding out the range, the seven-seat Exceed AWD is available with the 2.4-litre petrol and CVT ($42,290) or 2.2-litre diesel and automatic transmission ($45,790).

Externally, the new Outlander is identified by its redesigned twin-blade front grille, front and rear bumpers, and 18-inch alloy wheels, while the LS and Exceed grades pick up a rear spoiler that improves aerodynamics and reduces wind noise.

Inside, the front seats feature increased side support and new upholstery, while variants with a CVT or an automatic transmission add rear air vents to the centre console, as well as a powered USB port and an electric park brake.

Furthermore, illuminated window switches and one-touch power operation for all windows from the driver’s door are now standard for every variant alongside a manual speed limiter that is adjustable via the steering wheel’s buttons.

The LS grade specifically adds artificial-leather seats and door trim, as well as four-way power-adjustable front seats.

Quick-ratio steering has been added to improve responsiveness and feel, while larger-diameter front struts and rear shock absorbers enhance ride comfort and body control, according to MMAL.

The company also claims that new structural bonding has increased rigidity and enhanced dynamic performance, while changes to the exhaust manifold catalytic convertor have reduced engine noise.

Similar updates for the PHEV were revealed at the Geneva motor show in March this year, but, as previously reported, its upgrade is currently available to Europe and Japan only and no other markets, including Australia.

The revised PHEV is headlined by its 2.4-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine that replaces the current model’s 2.0-litre Otto-cycle petrol unit, as well as its more powerful rear-axle electric motor and larger battery pack.

For reference, the current AWD, five-seat PHEV is priced from $50,490 in LS form and $55,490 in Exceed guise. A model-year update is expected, but whether it will include the new powertrain is yet to be determined.

Sales of the Outlander have been steady this year, with 8154 examples sold to the end of June – a 0.7 per cent decrease over the 8213 deliveries made during the same period in 2017.

The Outlander is currently placed sixth in the sub-$60,000 mid-size-SUV segment, trailing the Mazda CX-5 (13,847 units), Toyota RAV4 (11,770), Nissan X-Trail (10,524), Hyundai Tucson (10,280) and Honda CR-V (9042).

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander pricing*

*Excludes on-road costs