New Mitsubishi Outlander styles up

The days when many buyers wanted a macho image from their 4WDs are over according to the experts at Japanese SUV specialist Mitsubishi Motor Corporation (MMC).

Take a look at the lines of the all-new Mitsubishi Outlander and you will immediately see how it takes an altogether different approach, with smooth lines that showcase elegance and sophistication rather than off-road ruggedness. Which explains why Mitsubishi chose the Geneva Motor Show to introduce its all-new Outlander to the world's motoring media.

The Swiss show is famed for concept cars and cutting edge automotive style, not to mention some way out ideas that are unlikely to ever see the light of day. Where as the about to be discontinued Mitsubishi Outlander featured the company's so-called jet-fighter radiator grille, the new model is about sweet sophistication with a neatly integrated look.

The lines of the entire body work well, with an integrated appearance that will impress those who love automotive art. Outlander is the first Mitsubishi with this design language, the company assures us it will not be the last.

Indeed, with the exception of the heavy-duty Pajero 4WD and possibly the Triton pickup ranges, it's likely we will see all new-generation Mitsubishis evolve into this new theme. Inside, there's a feeling of sophistication and quality of materials that give the new Outlander a feeling of coming from the upper ranks of European SUVs. The seats are large and comfortable, with good legroom in the rear and plenty of headroom in all seats. The luggage area is large and simple to load.

A third row of seats is offered as an option and is likely to be specified for Australia. These extra seats fold down to provide a flat area, with the second row of seats doing the same thing. As a result, even with this extra row of seats installed there's still room for a decent amount of luggage.

Outlander's smooth new shape isn't only about style, the Japanese designers have also aimed at less wind noise. This, combined with a stiffer body and other sound reduction measures, should add to the upmarket-European comfort at which the company is aiming.

Advanced primary safety systems similar to those used on very expensive European models will be available in the new Outlander, some as standard, others only in the topline models or as extra cost options.

These include Adaptive Cruise Control that lets the Mitsubishi keep its distance from the vehicle in front even when its speed varies; Lane Departure Warning that alerts a distracted driver to the fact the car is wandering out of a safe path; and Forward Collision Mitigation which applies the brakes to prevent or minimise crash damage.

Mitsubishi says the design of the instrument area and the layout of the controls will minimise the aforementioned driver distraction. Power for the new Outlander will initially come from a pair of engines, one petrol the other a turbo-diesel. Interestingly, the power output is identical in both units at 110 kW.

The petrol has a capacity of 2.0 litres the diesel is 10 per cent higher at 2.2 litres. Both are thoroughly modern units aimed at minimal fuel use and exhaust emissions. Amongst other features they have an automatic stop-start system to cut the engine when the vehicle is stationary.

Both the petrol and diesel will use a new-generation six-speed automatic transmission or six-speed manual gearboxes. The latter may not be imported to Australia. A third powerplant, using a plug-in hybrid system, will reinforce Mitsubishi's leading the way in electric vehicle (EV) power.

Mitsubishi was the first company to mass produce an electric vehicle and it plans to give the Outlander a range of up to 50 kilometres running on electricity alone. Meaning many commuters will be producing zero tailpipe emissions for days, even weeks, on end.

When the Outlander plug-in is used on extended trips Mitsubishi says it should be able to cover 800 km between refills. Australians may not be able to benefit from the plug-in electric Mitsubishi Outlander as the Australian government continues to refuse financial assistance for electric vehicles.