2013 Mitsubishi Outlander: A bland new look (photos)
Leaving behind its jet fighter grille, Mitsubishi launches the new Outlander with an inoffensive look. It also gets a tech makeover, not only bringing in a new infotainment system but also driver assistance features.
Wayne Cunningham
Wayne Cunningham reviews cars and writes about automotive technology for CNET's Roadshow. Prior to the automotive beat, he covered spyware, Web building technologies, and computer hardware. He began covering technology and the Web in 1994 as an editor of The Net magazine.
Mitsubishi's linchpin Outlander model gets an update at the 2013 Geneva auto show, revealing tamer styling than the outgoing model. Its curved grille looks more futuristic than aggressive. Mitsubishi says it will launch the new model in Russia first, with other regions following.
The vehicle shown in Geneva gets two engine options, a 2-liter gas engine with a newly engineered MIVEC variable valve timing system, and a turbocharged 2-liter diesel designed to meet Europe's new emissions regulations. A U.S. version would probably not have the diesel option. Mitsubishi also says it will release a plug-in version using the electric drive developed for the i-Miev, but possibly with a range extending engine.
The new Outlander is slightly shorter than the outgoing model, but the interior feels spacious. This European version has third-row seats that fold up in the cargo area, something that may not be available in the U.S. version. The seats are very small, and would be difficult to access.
The dashboard shows new infotainment technology. The instrument cluster has a full-color LCD between the speedometer and tachometer, while the center touch screen hosts navigation, stereo, and phone controls. Its large icons should make it easy to use while under way.
Being an Outlander, it comes with Mitsubishi's advanced four-wheel-drive system. New driver assistance systems include lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and a system that automatically hits the brakes if the car senses an imminent collision.
