New York: 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander

[Variance]

2007 Mitsubishi Outlander Makes North American Debut At New York International Auto Show; 220 Hp V-6 And 6-Speed Transmission Standard

April 12, 2006 -- NEW YORK --

Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) unveils the U.S. version of its next-generation Outlander compact sport-utility vehicle at the 2006 New York International Auto Show. The all-new, larger Outlander, which will reach Mitsubishi dealerships in November, offers a compelling blend of driven-to-thrill dynamics, bold styling, five- or seven-passenger versatility, plus numerous user-technology firsts for the compact SUV segment.

The 2007 Outlander is based on a new performance-engineered global platform that will also form the foundation of the next-generation Mitsubishi Lancer and Lancer Evolution models. All Outlander models for 2007 will be powered exclusively by a new 220 hp aluminum MIVEC V-6 engine teamed to a six-speed Sportronic® automatic transmission with available magnesium Sportronic steering wheel paddle shifters - a segment first. In another segment first, the California-emissions V-6 will be the first in the compact SUV segment to be P-ZEV certified.

Two trim lines available for 2007, the well equipped Outlander LS and sport/luxury XLS, each will be available with standard front-wheel drive or an optional electronically controlled 4WD system -- All-Wheel Control (AWC). Mitsubishi's All-Wheel Control philosophy for Outlander combines electronically controlled 4-wheel drive with Active Skid and Traction Control and a tuned suspension, plus an aluminum roof that lowers the center of gravity for better handling response. Eighteen-inch alloy wheels are standard on XLS models. The result is an SUV that delivers handling dynamics, stability and a level of driver engagement uncommon in the class.

The 2007 Outlander's safety package is one of the most comprehensive in the segment and includes an advanced dual front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with occupant sensors, standard front seat-mounted side-impact air bags and side curtain air bags (front and second row), plus energy-absorbing head protection interior pillars. All models include as standard an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), as well as a tire pressure monitor system.

"The 2007 Outlander brings Mitsubishi's 'Driven to Thrill' performance and design to the compact SUV segment, where we believe its combination of style, performance, versatility and value will make it a standout choice," said Hiroshi Harunari, president and CEO, Mitsubishi Motors North America. "The Outlander also previews new design language for Mitsubishi and strongly hints at the performance potential of this new platform."

A Driver's SUV

The 2007 Outlander debuts an all-new aluminum 3.0-liter SOHC V-6 engine that produces 220 hp at 6,250 rpm and 204 lb-ft. of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. The Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control system (MIVEC) helps optimize power and engine efficiency across a broad engine speed range.

The new V-6 is teamed exclusively with a 6-speed Sportronic automatic transmission that allows manual shifting. Outlander XLS models present a sporty element seen in high-performance cars - magnesium Sportronic steering wheel paddle shifters.

Outlander's highly rigid unibody body structure, which makes extensive use of high-strength steel, allows for sport-oriented suspension tuning while also providing a smooth, compliant ride. Its front suspension employs strut tower bars to enhance lateral rigidity for precise steering response. The rear multilink suspension system provides an excellent balance of handling performance and ride comfort.

Outlander LS models feature standard 16-in. steel wheels with 215/70 R16 tires, with alloy wheels available as an option. On Outlander XLS models, standard 18-in. aluminum-alloy wheels with 225/55 R18 all-season tires enhance handling and style.

The Bold New Look of Mitsubishi

The 2007 Outlander debuts a new Mitsubishi design language that captures the performance-oriented essence of the brand. Clean, sharp lines, featuring a "diamond cut" front end and boldly sculpted fender flares, evoke the athleticism of a sport sedan and the sophistication of a premium SUV. The LED tail lamp clusters give the rear of the vehicle a distinctive appearance.

On XLS models, privacy tinted rear glass, roof rails, dual tailpipe outlets and silver-painted door handles and bumper extensions emphasize the upscale appearance. Available xenon HID head lamps enhance road illumination and accentuate the high-tech styling.

Mitsubishi likewise designed the 2007 Outlander interior to look and feel more like a sport sedan's than a typical compact SUV's. Smooth forms and sculpted door panels are set off by silver-accent trim, and the deeply contoured front bucket seats and motorcycle-style instrument panel gauges suggest sports car more than sport-utility. Underscoring the 2007 Outlander's attention to utility and usability, all models feature as standard a unique odor-defeating head liner.

Interior Flexibility

Outlander offers ample room for five -- or seven with an underfloor-stowable compact third row seat that folds flat into the floor when not needed (XLS models). The second-row seat features 60/40 split fold-and-tumble seats. The second-row seat backs fold forward and then the seats can be tumbled forward to expand cargo capacity. Five-seat models feature an under-floor compartment that's out-of-sight.

The load floor is eight inches lower than on the original Outlander, and loading bikes (with wheels on) or large packages is made easier by the segment's first flap-fold tailgate. When lowered, the tailgate can also serve as a seat for outdoor activities, with a capacity of 440 lbs. Ample storage spaces include useful bins and compartments, a movable front center console and door-panel bottle carriers. The 2007 Outlander can tow a trailer up to 2,000 lbs. as standard or up to 3,500 lbs. with the optional towing package.

In-Car Electronics

The 2007 Outlander offers many user technologies typically available on premium SUVs, some of which are firsts for the segment: an available satellite navigation system that features hard drive map data storage and music file capability; an available hands-free Bluetooth® cellular phone interface system with voice recognition; an available rear-seat DVD entertainment system that includes wireless headphones and remote control, and the available FAST-Key entry system allows vehicle unlocking and starting simply by carrying the key.

The available Rockford-Fosgate® audio system with PUNCH® control plays through nine speakers with up to total 650 watts (max.) output, and the package also includes SIRIUS™ Satellite Radio with six months' free subscription, plus a power glass sunroof.

Standout Value

Standard equipment in Outlander LS includes air conditioning; ambient lighting; cruise control; engine immobilizer and anti-theft alarm system; keyless entry; power windows, locks and mirrors, and a powerful audio system with AM/FM/CD/MP3 playback capability and six speakers.

Outlander XLS models add the underfloor-stowable compact third row seat; automatic climate control system; steering wheel audio remote control switches, and hands-free Bluetooth cellular phone interface system with voice recognition.

The available XLS Luxury Package augments interior comfort with leather seating surfaces (front and second rows), heated front seats and a power-adjustable driver's seat.

Premium Warranty

Mitsubishi cars and light trucks are backed by a comprehensive new-vehicle limited warranty that covers the vehicle from bumper to bumper for five years/60,000 miles. In addition, the powertrain is covered by a 10-year/100,000 mile limited warranty, while body panels have a seven-year/100,000 mile anti-corrosion/perforation limited warranty.

The program also includes 24-hour emergency roadside assistance with free towing to the nearest authorized Mitsubishi retailer for warranty-related repairs for five years/unlimited miles.

Source: Mitsubishi Media Newsroom

[sciguy_0504]

A nice mish-mash of different vehicles already on the market but the 6-speed with magnesium paddles and aluminum roof sounds pretty cool. They are loading this up with some features, too. I am sure it will do better than the last-gen.

Edit: spelling.

Edited April 13, 2006 by sciguy_0504

[pow]

The specs seem world-class... six-speed automatic, aluminum roof, Bluetooth, ESP, keyless ignition, sat nav, on-board hard drive, rear-seat DVD... very impressive.

[Petra]

Not too sure this vehicle by itself is going to save the company, but it may buy them some time.

[Flybrian]

Too bad it now looks like everything else on the road.

[turbo200]

the last one was not unattractive but it was definitely soccer mom/girly; this one at least has some tension and agression to the lines. I like, even though it is very derivative. Derivative is not what a company in Mitsu's position needs, unfortunately.

[Drew Dowdell]

stick a fork in it, this company is done.

What do they sell anymore that does any good in the marketplace?

There best seller is probably the eclipse and the last one that sold well was 2 generations ago.

They took a decent Galant and made it hidious.

Not sure why they even bothered with the Raider.

This looks so bland... but at least they lost the Oldsmobile rip off styling.

[Cory Wolfe]

Interesting...

[loki]

reminds me of the CSVs w/o a sliding door