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2009 Mitsubishi Outlander Versatile Review

December 2008
Filed under: MITSUBISHI Car News | MITSUBISHI Headlines

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The Mitsubishi Outlander offers a compelling blend of fun-to-drive dynamics, standout design, and five-or seven-passenger versatility. There are several major refinements for 2009: Three-row seating is now available on the four-cylinder Special Edition (SE) models; it remains standard on the V-6 XLS models. The available hard disc drive navigation system with digital music server now includes a new rear-view camera (XLS models), and disc capacity is increased to 40 GB, up from 30 GB. The XLS shares the interior upgrades that debuted in the SE models, including Sport fabric seats with leather bolsters. The LS V-6 models are discontinued.

The comprehensive Convenience Package is now standard on the ES 4WD model. The Luxury Package available for XLS models gains rain-sensing windshield wipers with new flat-type aero blades, plus automatic on/off headlamp control. Outlander XLS is distinguished for 2009 by new chrome-plated door handles, a chrome accent for the grille and chrome-accented side sill garnish.

The Outlander is based on a performance-engineered global platform also shared with the Mitsubishi Lancer and Lancer Evolution models. Outlander ES and SE are powered by a smooth, fuel-efficient 2.4-liter 168-hp aluminum DOHC MIVEC 4-cylinder engine teamed with a Sportronic CVT transmission. The XLS is powered by a 3.0-liter 220-hp aluminum MIVEC V-6 engine teamed to a six-speed Sportronic® automatic transmission with magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters.

The Outlander SE combines the economy of the 2.4-liter powertrain with upscale amenities and options from the V-6 XLS. All Outlander models come standard with Active Stability and Traction Control (ASTC), and all are available with an electronically controlled 4-wheel drive system - All-Wheel Control (AWC). Mitsubishi's All-Wheel Control philosophy for Outlander combines sophisticated electronically controlled 4-wheel drive with ASTC and a tuned 4-wheel independent suspension, plus an aluminum roof that lowers the center of gravity for better handling response. On Outlander XLS and SE models, 18-in. aluminum-alloy wheels are standard.

Standard safety features on all models include an advanced dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with occupant sensors, front seat-mounted side-impact air bags and side curtain air bags (front and second row), plus energy-absorbing head protection interior pillars, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), and a tire pressure monitor system (TPMS).

The underfloor-stowable compact third row seat (standard on XLS, available for SE) folds flat into the floor when not needed. Outlander features the segment's first and only flap-fold tailgate for easy loading. When lowered, the flap-fold tailgate can also serve as a seat for outdoor activities, with a capacity of 440 lbs. Overall cargo volume behind the front seats measures 72.6 cu. ft.

The standard FAST Key (Freehand Advanced Security Transmitter) entry system on Outlander SE and XLS allows passive vehicle unlocking and engine start/stop by carrying the remote control. High-tech options include a HDD 40-GB navigation system with music server; a 650-watt (max.) Rockford-Fosgate® Premium Audio system with digital signal processing (std. on SE); SIRIUS® satellite radio with six month pre-paid subscription; hands-free calling through Bluetooth® wireless technology, and an accessory DVD rear seat entertainment system with a nine-inch wide-format LCD screen.

The available navigation system features Diamond Lane Guidance, an industry-first development that can include HOV (high-occupancy vehicle) lane information with directions.

Key Specifications
Wheelbase: 105.1 in.
Length: 182.7 in.
Height: 66.1 in. (67.7 in. with roof rails)
Width: 70.9 in.
Curb weight range: 3,395 lbs. (ES 2WD) to 3,781 lbs. (XLS 4WD)

Major Standard Features (ES)
2.4-liter DOHC MIVEC engine with Sportronic® CVT
Active Stability and Traction Control (ASTC)
Air conditioning
AM/FM/CD audio system with MP3 playback capability and six speakers
Dual-stage front air bag SRS with front passenger occupant sensors
Front seat mounted side-impact air bags
Curtain side air bags
Anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Cruise control
Engine immobilizer
Keyless entry, power windows, locks and mirrors

ES 4WD model adds: heated side-view mirrors plus Convenience Package featuring: 16-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, rear privacy glass, color-keyed outer door mirrors and door handles, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, steering wheel audio controls, Bluetooth® HFP pre-wire, MP3/Auxiliary stereo input jack, 12V power outlets (cargo x1/cockpit x1), seatback pocket (driver side), floor mats (Convenience Package is also available for ES 2WD model)

Special Edition (SE) adds over ES:
Contents of Convenience Package
Fog lights
18-inch alloy wheels
650-watt (max.) Rockford-Fosgate Premium Audio system with PUNCH® control
Chrome-accented exterior door handles and side sills
Interior door panel trim with chrome door handles
FAST Key entry system
High-contrast instrument gauges.
Sport fabric seats with leather bolsters
Silver-painted roof rails
Sportronic® magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters

XLS models add / substitute over SE:
3.0-liter MIVEC V-6 engine
6-speed Sportronic® automatic transmission with magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters
Automatic climate control system
6CD/MP3 in-dash changer
Hands-free Bluetooth® cellular phone interface system with voice recognition
Underfloor-stowable compact 3rd row seat.

Option Packages:
Convenience Package (ES 2WD - see contents at left)
Third-row Seat Package (SE) includes underfloor-stowable compact 3rd row seat
Luxury Package (XLS only) featuring: Xenon HID headlamps with auto-leveling; leather seating surfaces (front & 2nd row); power driver seat and heated front seats, rain-sensing windshield wipers with new flat-type aero blades, and automatic on/off headlamp control
Sun & Sound Package (XLS only) featuring: 650-watt (max.) Rockford-Fosgate Premium Audio system with PUNCH® control; 115-volt accessory outlet, power glass sunroof with sunshade and SIRIUS Satellite Radio with six months free service subscription.
HDD Navigation & Mitsubishi Multi-Communication System (XLS only) featuring: 40-GB navigation system with 7-inch touch panel and music server function, rear-view camera, Diamond Lane Guidance, single-disc CD/DVD/MP3 player, and auxiliary video input jack.

Navigation system is available as an accessory on other models (without rear-view camera or video input); Rear Seat Entertainment System available as an accessory on all models. An accessory trailer towing package is available.

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