More tech, luxury for updated Outlander

Note: This article was updated on December 5 with information relating to plug-in hybrid variants.

MITSUBISHI Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) has updated its petrol and plug-in hybrid Outlander medium SUV line-up for 2023, adding upgraded MI-Pilot driver assistance technologies on high-end Exceed and Exceed Tourer variants, more standard safety tech on the entry-level ES and a new mid-tier petrol LS Black Edition.

Pricing increases of between $250 and $1000 see the petrol-powered Outlander range commence from $36,240 plus on-road costs when updated models arrive in January, the flagship Exceed Tourer now retailing from $53,490+ ORC.

Plug-in hybrid versions of the Outlander jump by between $1000 and $1500 to begin at $55,590 + ORC and top out at $69,990 + ORC.

Top-spec Exceed and Exceed Tourer variants now adopt Mitsubishi’s updated MI-Pilot driver assistance technologies for 2023, with additional semi-autonomous functionality for the system’s adaptive cruise control system.

Steering control assistance arrives as part of an extended lane-keep assist system, while traffic jam assist enables the Outlander to re-engage cruise control after coming to a complete stop.

Further, speed limit assistance using traffic sign recognition can automatically adjust vehicle speed to changing speed zones with one touch of a button when adaptive cruise control is activated.

To ensure safe operation, the steering wheel of MI-Pilot equipped Outlander variants now features touch sensors so it can disengage semi-autonomous driving features when the driver’s grip is not detected, as well as when the turn signals are operated or the windscreen wipers are continuously operated at their highest speed setting.

Outlander Exceed and Exceed Tourer models now also gain a heated steering wheel as standard issue, plus sequential front indicators.

For the newly introduced Outlander LS Black Edition (from $41,490 + ORC) Mitsubishi has added dark-themed exterior finishes, including 20-inch black alloy wheels, black wing mirrors, black lower front and rear bumper details, a black grille, gloss black B- and C-pillar covers, and standard premium paint.

Internally, the new variant further includes black A-pillar covers, a black headlining, black laser-etched gear selector panel, and Mi-Suede seat upholstery with synthetic leather bolsters.

All 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander variants now feature rear auto emergency braking, auto hold with memory, and a change to the HVAC system’s refrigerant type for reduced environmental impact in case of a leak. ES variants further include rear cross-traffic alert and auto high beam functions.

For the ES, Mitsubishi has also included an integrated 8.0-inch IVI infotainment system featuring tethered Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. This system replaces the previous 9.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity, which is discontinued owing to parts supply issues.

“Since we launched the all-new Outlander in 2021, we have been impressed with just how well the vehicle has been received, both in the media and by consumers,” said MMAL CEO Shaun Westcott.

“For the 2023 model year, Outlander now adds some key safety and convenience technology, with MI-Pilot functionality introducing start-stop control within the adaptive cruise control system.

“We have also added a distinctive LS Black Edition to the Outlander range. With a dark aesthetic theme including black 20-inch wheels, it is sure to stand out from the crowd.”

Mr Westcott said production of petrol-powered 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander range commenced last month (November) with first Australian arrivals expected in January 2023.

Due to ongoing semiconductor shortages, the PHEV Exceed and PHEV Exceed Tourer have had their previous auto-tilt side mirror function discontinued.

“Following the success of its launch in August 2022 the Outlander Plug-In Hybrid EV is proving to be an immensely popular option for Australians looking to travel, without having to worry about range or infrastructure,” said Mitsubishi Motors Australia CEO, Shaun Westcott.

“The Outlander Plug-In Hybrid EV receives some luxurious updates and key safety enhancements for 23MY, to ensure it can continue to be the vehicle of choice for those looking to adventure with a smaller carbon footprint,” he said.

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander (petrol) pricing*:

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.