Previewed at the 4th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS), the all-new 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander is roughly the same size as the outgoing model. The new body was styled to comply with Mitsubishi's "Solid - Safe - Simple" shape concept. This blends the SUV's substantial look with clean surfaces that offers a very comforting sense of quiet protection and safety to its passengers. The front end was given a slim yet distinctive look with it's thin front aerodynamic chrome grill - matched with the very cat-like wrap-around headlights.
The all-new Outlander is powered by a 4J11 2.0L MIVEC engine that produces 148 hp at 6,000 rpm - mated to an all-new six speed automatic transmission with AWD. Also featured are an all-new Automatic Stop and Go system, and numerous weight reductions throughout the body with the use of structure optimization and high-tensile strength steel pressings. These improvements in the 2013 Outlander is part of Mitsubishi's goal to achieve improved fuel economy and lower emissions in their new vehicles.
Inside, the fine leather-covered seats and door panels, along with high quality plastics that covers the doors and dash give the interior a premium look and feel. Seating is relatively spacious for five adults with a wide and comfortable 50/50 split third row that can be folded flat - great for loading large cargo in the back. At the center of the dashboard sits a touchscreen entertainment headunit with an integrated reverse, dual-zone air-conditioning, as well as an “Eco mode” button.
The 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander packs advanced safety features that may or may not be featured in the version that's headed for the Philippines. These include Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Mitigation system, Lane Departure Warning system, and Super-HID “Wide Vision” Xenon headlamps.
All of the Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) staff and officials present at the 4th PIMS were particularly tight lipped on the pricing of the all-new 2013 Outlander. Scheduled to arrive middle of 2013, Mitsubishi might have itself a very powerful contender in the competitive SUV market if it comes with all the great features and priced well-below the P2 million mark.
