The Outlander is an important vehicle for Mitsubishi Australia as it competes in the congested small medium AWD SUV segment, which is the fastest growing segment in the market.
Externally the new Outlander Aspire has a smoother style that while pleasant is subjectively a little subdued and seems to move away from the family DNA. Step inside the new Outlander and the rejuvenation continues. The driver’s seat is firm but comfortable and electronically adjustable. The steering wheel is height and reach adjustable, thick rimmed, responsive and houses all the normal controls.
The instrument binnacle features a multi-function display and the overall layout of stalks and buttons works well. The centre stack houses the radio and sat nav while the center console houses a couple of cup holders, storage areas and usb inputs etc. Along with door pockets for small bottles, glove box and small lift up center arm rest, there is ample storage.
Step into the middle row of seats and you will find a fairly flat squab section. These seats are hard and lack some support. The rear seats are now very easy to operate, comfortable for up to mid teenagers and fold flat along with the middle row to provide a long and large load area.
Available with 18-inch alloy wheels, outer scuff plates and chrome accents, Mitsubishi has created a car that is versatile and comfortable with touches of luxury. Drivers will also benefit from rain-sensing wipers, dusk-sensing headlamps, Smart Key with One-Touch Start and leather seats with driver and front passenger also enjoying the option to use the seat heater function.
Mitsubishi also offers the Outlander Aspire Premium Option Pack, (RRP $5,500). Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) maintains a safe distance from the car in front even at very low speeds as experienced in heavy traffic. Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) detects obstacles on the road ahead of the Outlander and automatically applies the brakes to help in preventing a collision.
The Aspire Premium also adds a power tailgate for hands-free operation and new-generation MMCS with 7-inch full colour display and touch panel. Audio is upgraded to the Rockford Fosgate Premium system with nine speakers including four tweeters and a 10-inch sub, for optimum sound quality.
Boasting a 5 star ANCAP rating the Outlander Aspire has seven SRS airbags, ASC, Hill-Start Assist and ABS with EBD. There is also a reversing camera.
Powering the Aspire is a 2.2L DID mated to the 6 speed CVT and produces 110Kw @ 3,500 and 360Nm @ 1,500rpm, providing a smooth and tractable driving experience. Fuel is a measly 5.8L/100Km. It has a 2,000kg towing capacity with a tow ball rating of 200kg.
The new Outlander Aspire overall is a significant improvement over the model it replaces, being more fuel efficient, better CO2 figures, more safety features and better 3rd row seats. In a market segment that is becoming more competitive every day any model has its hands full. The new Outlander Aspire should absolutely be on your shopping list if you’re looking for a small to medium 7 seat AWD SUV.
What is good:
• Driveability
• Packed with features
• Third row seats
What is not so good:
• Understated styling
• Flat rear seats
• Under powered
Model Mitsubishi Outlander Aspire DiD
Model Price $56,037 RDAP
Drivetrain AWD 2.2L Diesel 6 speed CVT
Power 110 Kw @ 3,5000 rpm
Torque 360 Nm @ 1,500 rpm
Safety 5 Star
CO2 Emissions 153 g/km
Green Vehicle Rating 3½ Star
Economy (ADR comb) 5.8 L/100km
Tow Capacity Max 2000 kg
Tow Ball Rating 200 kg
Servicing $510 every 15,000km or 12 months
Warranty 5yr/130,000 Km with full roadside assist
Overall OzRoamer Rating 76/100
Behind the Wheel 8
Comfort 8
Equipment 8
Performance 7
Ride & Handling 7
Practicality 8
Fit for Purpose 8
Towing Ability 7
Off Road Ability 7
Value for Money 8
