Mitsubishi Outlander – 2.0L vs 2.4L, which one to pick?

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

Which one should you pick?

Both variants of the Mitsubishi Outlander are generously equipped, as even the base model gets 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry with engine push start button, automatic dual-zone climate control, 7 airbags, a built-in DVR, and Mitsubishi’s 360-degree monitor called All-Round Monitor.

Furthermore, both variants of the Outlander also feature Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity via its built-in 7-inch touchscreen head unit.

What sets the 2.4-litre model apart from the 2.0-litre are automatic LED headlights, a powered tailgate with Anti-Pinch, a rear spoiler, electric parking brake with Auto Hold, paddle shifters, 8-way power-adjustable driver seat, electrochromic rear view mirror, and a sunroof.

As such, you’re not losing out a lot by opting for the cheaper 2.0-litre model.

Your bank account may thank you as well, as you can save an average of RM 155 per month on monthly installments. 

But why pick the Outlander?

Apart from its long list of standard equipment, what sets the Outlander apart from its competition is its superior ride and handling.

Even with its 18-inch alloy wheels, ride comfort is surprisingly supple without compromising handling. With that said, ride comfort actually surpasses that of the Honda CR-V.

Apart from its superior ride comfort, the Outlander’s cabin is also quieter than the Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5.

Then there’s the third-row seats in the Outlander, which are the most spacious in its class. Never mind the Nissan X-Trail’s cramped third-row seats, the ones in the Outlander are large enough to accommodate a 175 cm adult with ease.

However, the Outlander falls short dynamically at long sweeping corners, as its steering does not feel as precise as the Mazda CX-5 or Honda CR-V. Then again, the Outlander’s rear section is longer to accommodate the third-row seats – itself bigger than those offered in the Nissan X-Trail or overseas market CR-V.

Despite being a 7-seater, the Mitsubishi Outlander does not come with rear air-conditioning vents, though this can be remedied easily – Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia offers an optional rear air circulator to keep rear passengers cool.

So, if you’re shopping for a 7-seater SUV, give the Outlander a second look, it may just surprise you.