When Mitsubishi entered the US SUV market in 2003 with the Outlander, they couldn’t have possibly predicted the boom in sales the market would experience in the next decade. The Outlander, introduced to replace the outgoing Montero, aimed to provide more luxury and comfort than off-roading capabilities – a trade-off for the brand. The introductory model came equipped with Mitsubishi’s classic 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and plenty of customizable options. Continuing the Mitsubishi tradition of improvement, in 2004 they upgraded the Outlander’s original engine to boost its horsepower up to 160 horsepower, and in 2005, an extensive addition of safety features. Features such as an optional manual transmission, newly advanced airbags, enhanced disc brakes, and anti-lock braking system were standard on the Outlander by 2006.
The Mitsubishi spirit of constant improvement remained strong, and by 2007 the Outlander experienced its first redesign – only four years after its introduction. This redesign included a 220 horsepower V6 engine – making power a priority for Mitsubishi – and increasing the size of the SUV that allowed for the addition of third-row seating. By 2010 another major redesign arrived, and the Outlander now had new front and rear fascias, a new grille, a redesigned hood, an improved LCD display and GPS system.
Mitsubishi secured their status as a pioneer in green tech when in 2013 they introduced the Outlander PHEV- the world’s first plug-in hybrid SUV. The Outlander PHEV allows drivers three driving modes – battery save mode, battery charge mode, and ECO mode. What is referred to as battery save mode is the driver-activated mode that is intended to conserve the energy within the battery pack once it drops below 90 percent – this is the hybrid mode. The battery charge mode will charge the battery by generating electricity (whether the vehicle is in motion or at a standstill) – and feeding said electricity back into the battery pack. In about 40 minutes consumers can enjoy 80% charge. Lastly, the ECO mode can be activated with just the touch of a button to reduce both fuel and electricity usage. The Outlander PHEV has a combined range of 310 miles, 22 of which are in all-electric mode – free of emissions!
The last time the Outlander experienced any significant changes was in 2012. Now in its third generation, the Outlander is more market-competitive with improved fuel economy – a not-so-small feat accomplished by reducing the overall weight from its predecessor by 200 pounds. Additionally, the interior received upgrades as well, including redesigned seats, sound insulation to lessen noise disturbance, and soft-touch material inserts for the armrests. Safety features available on the Outlander are up-to-date with a blind spot warning system, forward collision mitigation, a multi-view camera, rear cross traffic alert, lane change assist, and lane departure warning.
Are you ready to get behind the wheel of a Mitsubishi Outlander? Come visit us at Miami Lakes Mitsubishi and test drive the new 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander or the Outlander PHEV – your choice!
If you’re one step ahead and already own a Mitsubishi vehicle, our service department is open seven days a week for your convenience. Schedule a service appointment today, regardless of where you bought your vehicle!
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