Mitsubishi Outlander 2012 with distinctive styling

The 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander is small crossover SUV with distinctive styling, advanced technology and a lively personality. The exterior is designed like a crisp sports sedan with a front end that hosts smooth textures and clean surface transitions and a rear that follows suit with ample glass and logical lines. An all-wheel drive system, high driving position and versatile cargo space make it a highly competitive vehicle in its class.

The Mitsubishi Outlander is available in four trim levels: the ES, SE, XLS and GT. Features on the base ES model include CD player, air conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control and a variety of safety features. The SE model adds a keyless entry and ignition, 18-inch wheels, a six-disc CD changer, fabric sports seats and steering wheel–mounted paddle shifters. The XLS model adds a third row seat, chrome accents in the cabin, automatic climate control and Bluetooth phone capability which is voice activated. The top of the line GT has all of the features of the other models and adds exterior chrome trim, xenon headlights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, aluminum pedals, satellite radio and a Rockford Fosgate sound system.

Specs:

The engine in the Mitsubishi Outlander is dependent on the model. The ES and SE models have a 2.4 liter four cylinder engine that can produce 168 horsepower and 167 pound-feet of torque. The XLS and GT models have 3.0 liter V6 engine that can produce 230 horsepower and 215 pound-feet of torque. The transmission in the four-cylinder vehicles is a continuously variable transmission with adaptive shift control while the transmission in the V6 vehicle is a six-speed automatic also with adaptive shift control. All models of the Mitsubishi Outlander are available as either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive with a super all-wheel drive version offered on the GT trim model. A feature of the all-wheel drive system is that it can be configured as either a two-wheel drive system when maximum fuel economy is desired or as four-wheel drive when slippery conditions require maximum traction.

Fuel economy for the Mitsubishi Outlander is rated by drive and engine type. Models with a four cylinder engine and drive that is front wheel are rated at 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway while the same engine with all-wheel drive is rated at 21 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Models with the V6 engine and front-wheel drive are rated at 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway while the same engine with all-wheel drive is rated at 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.

The interior of the Mitsubishi Outlander features an uncluttered dashboard made of hard plastic panels as well as high quality materials that do not have a cheap look. The front and second row seats are comfortable even for long drives and spacious enough for taller adults. The optional third row seat increases the seating capacity from five to seven but clearly is designed for children. It is also somewhat flimsy in construction with a thin cushion and backrest that easily fold flat on the floor to increase cargo capacity.

Overall the 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander is a vehicle with moderately sporty handling and a family-friendly design. It maintains its usability with style and value and is a pleasure to drive.