(Mitsubishi Outlander 2019 |Gallery)

It is a 7-seater SUV that first made its Malaysian debut in 2016. The Mitsubishi Outlander 2019 is the only car in the segment equipped with Intelligent 4WD as standard across all variants. It is a complete package for those looking for a people carrier with all-weather assurance.

How Much Is Mitsubishi Outlander 2019?

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) offers two variants of the Outlander: 2.0L and 2.4L priced at RM 137,888 and RM 152,888 (OTR without insurance) respectively. Both variants are locally assembled (CKD).

Both engines are naturally aspirated four-cylinder units with the 2.0-litre commanding 145 PS and 196 Nm while the 2.4-litre makes 167 PS and 222 Nm. A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) automatic and Intelligent 4-wheel drive (4WD) system drives all four wheels.

Our pick of the range would be the Outlander 2.0L as it comes with all the necessary features such as Apple Car Play and Android Auto connectivity, 360-degree all-round monitor, synthetic leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels and more.

The 2.0L variant even has front parking sensors which the 2.4L curiously does not have. Safety features are also well accounted for in the entry-level variant with 7 airbags, Electronic Stability Control, security and solar window tint as well as a Rest Reminder.

Although only packing a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine under the hood, the motor is more than sufficient to lug a fully loaded Outlander around. This is due to the CVT’s tuning which is calibrated to fully capitalise the torque band when acceleration. There is also a Sports Mode (not available on 2.4L) for the transmission which holds onto a higher rpm.

Pros And Cons

The biggest merit of the Mitsubishi Outlander 2019 is the Intelligent 4WD system which is able to cycle between three modes – 4WD Eco, 4WD Auto and 4WD Lock.

When road conditions are good, the Intelligent 4WD system predominantly sends power to the front wheels to save fuel. The system will send power to the front and rear wheels, giving the driver’s all-weather assurance when the need arises, especially in slippery conditions.

Another strong suit of the Outlander is its ride and handling. Despite rolling on 18-inch alloys (225/55 R18 tyres), the ride quality is incredibly supple and does not lose itself even when carrying heavy loads. Handling is also great for an SUV as it resists body roll fairly well given its size – the 4WD system also helps with keeping the Outlander planted.

Besides that, the Mitsubishi Outlander 2019 also scores very well cabin insulation as it is quieter than even popular SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5. 

Third-row seats in the Mitsubishi Outlander 2019 are also the most spacious in class. So much so that even an average height adult (175 cm) can get very comfortable for long-distance journeys.

The biggest drawback of the Mitsubishi Outlander 2019 would be its less than impressive fuel economy. You do need to ask for a bit more from the engines especially at speeds which consume more fuel.

For those who plan to use the rear seats often, you will have to fork out an additional RM 1,485 for the optional rear air circulator official accessory as the Mitsubishi Outlander 2019 does not come with rear air vents from the factory.

Something that’s less of a drawback but more of a personal irk is that the Mitsubishi Outlander 2019 only comes in three colour choices – Red Metallic, Ruby Black and Solar White.

What Are The Alternatives of Mitsubishi Outlander 2019?

The direct competitor to the Mitsubishi Outlander 2019 is the Nissan X-Trail (RM 133k to RM 159k) which was recently given a facelift exercise. It also has 7-seats and is equally well equipped as the Mitsubishi Outlander 2019.

The X-Trail has a more advanced powertrain (direct injection and hybrid), more convenience features (powered tailgate) and the range-topping model even comes with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems.

However, the third-row seats of the X-Trail are more suited for children and if you opt for the range-topping 2.0 Hybrid variant, it is strictly a 5-seater configuration which may be a concern for buyers.

Another option is the ladder frame-based Toyota Fortuner (RM 171k to RM 195k) which has better off-road capabilities for those who tackle the beaten track often. However, it also means that the Fortuner is not as comfortable as the Outlander.