Mitsubishi Outlander

The current generation Mitsubishi Outlander made its Malaysian debut back in 2016 in one form - 2.4-litre, CBU from Japan. 

Local assembly of the Mitsubishi Outlander started in 2017 with the 2.0-litre model, followed by the 2.4-litre model a few months later. 

The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0 is priced from RM 137,888, while the Outlander 2.4 is priced from RM 152,888.

Considering its 7-seater nature, the Outlander most direct rival is the Nissan X-Trail. 

Design

Compared to some rival SUVs, The Outlander takes a more laid-back approach - there's no fussy body lines or garish design elements, just simple lines that work.

That said, we do wish that the Outlander had less chrome trim, as it does look gaudy with that much chrome trim fitted all around the SUV.

Dimensions

Lighting

The Outlander 2.0 gets automatic halogen projector headlights with LED daytime running lights.

As for the Outlander 2.4, this variant gets automatic LED projector headlights, also with LED daytime running lights.

Both Outlander variants get front and rear fog lights.

Wheels

The Outlander 2.0 and 2.4 variants share 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels.

Dashboard

Unlike the Mazda CX-5 and its premium-looking dashboard, the Outlander's one looks cheap by comparison. 

Furthermore, the centre air-conditioning vents are angled towards the driver, making long-distance driving a rather freezing affair.

Space and Practicality

Space wise, the Outlander offers sufficient storage spaces in the cabin - enough for you to unload your pockets.

The Outlander 2.4 also adds a powered tailgate.

Boot

Boot space of the Mitsubishi Outlander comes in at 477 litres, though it can be further expanded with the third-row seats folded down.

Safety Features

Unlike a lot of its rivals (Proton X70, Honda CR-V, Nissan X-Trail, Mazda CX-5), the Outlander isn't equipped with any ADAS features. 

Despite that, it still gets 7 airbags across the range, as well as stability control and traction control. 

Furthermore, both variants of the Outlander receive a front digital video recorder (DVR), reverse camera, and a 360-degree view monitor.

Comfort Features

Another downside of the Mitsubishi Outlander is the lack of rear air-conditioning vents - rear passengers will need to rely on the front blower for cool air to reach the rear. 

Fortunately, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia offers an optional roof-mounted air circulator. 

Infotainment

A 7-inch touchscreen head unit with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity is fitted to the Outlander. Audio is routed through a 6-speaker sound system.

Engine

Two engine options are available on the Outlander

Transmission

A CVT-type automatic is the only transmission option in Malaysia. 

Drivetrain

The Outlander 2.0 is a front-engine, front-wheel drive model, while the 

Acceleration

Mitsubishi does not provide any 0-100 km/h data for the Outlander. 

Engine Performance

Starting with the Outlander 2.0, with 145 PS and 196 Nm on tap, outright performance is average at best.

But if you need more grunt, the Outlander 2.4 should be your choice. 

Transmission Performance

Despite being a CVT-type automatic, it does a decent job of simulating a 6-speed automatic. 

At full throttle, the CVT droning can be rather noticeable.

Steering and Handling

While the steering may not be as sharp as the Mazda CX-5, we wouldn't call the Outlander clumsy.

It can hold its own rather well, considering that it sits 7 with relative comfort, more on that below.

Sound Proofing

Sound proofing of the Mitsubishi Outlander is surprisingly good.

Mitsubishi has done a great job keeping road and tire noises from entering the cabin.

Passenger Comfort

This is where the Mitsubishi Outlander truly excels.

Thanks to Mitsubishi's knowledge gained during its past experience in motorsports, the suspension is well calibrated - it soaks up bad roads with relative ease, without jolting the passengers too much.

For what it's worth, the third-row seats are also spacious enough to sit an adult, putting it ahead of the Nissan X-Trail.

That said, the lack of a rear air-conditioning vent could be a sorepoint for some.

Fuel Consumption

Although the Mitsubishi Outlander is fitted with a CVT-type automatic, it can get rather thirsty at times.

At highway speeds, the lowest we recorded is 8.5-litre/100 km, though that figure quickly climbs to 12-litre/100 km while driving in the city. 

As comfortable as the Mitsubishi Outlander is, its average fuel economy, lack of rear air-conditioning vents, and angled front vents are quite a turn-off. 

But, for those who really need to use the third-row seats on a frequent basis, there's no better option at this price point. 

Couple that with its excellent ride comfort (not everyone will appreciate the Mazda CX-5's driving dynamics), the Mitsubishi Outlander is an excellent 7-seater SUV.