ZG Outlander

MITSUBISHI started afresh with the second-generation Outlander, to create a larger, longer, roomier, safer, stronger, better-equipped and more versatile 4WD wagon than the outgoing version.

Built off the same GS platform that underpinned the 2007 Lancer, along with a range of DaimlerChrysler small cars and SUVs, the ZG Outlander arrived in late 2006, with eight variants spread across a two-pronged engine and seating-configuration array.

A 2.4-litre twin-cam 16-valve four-cylinder powerplant, available in the base LS and well-specified XLS, produced 125kW at 6000rpm and 226Nm at 4100rpm.

The 3.0-litre single-cam 24-valve V6, found in the Outlander VR and top-line VRX variants, delivered 162kW at 6250rpm and 276Nm at 4000.

The Aisin-supplied six-speed automatic, known as INVECS II, featured a Tiptronic-style sequential-shift function via both the gear lever and steering wheel paddle shifters.

In all Outlander variants, torque was distributed via an electronically controlled ‘Active Select’ 4WD system. The driver could choose – on the fly – between front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, with a 40:60 front/rear torque split or with AWD Lock (50:50 front/rear).

Suspension was by MacPherson struts up front and a trailing arm multi-link arrangement.

To help the Outlander off-road, ground clearance was a class-competitive 215mm, just 10mm shy of the Pajero.

All models had dual front airbags, rear-ducted air-conditioning, anti-lock brakes, power windows, cruise control, satellite audio controls and a trip computer, with stability control standard at launch on the V6s.