HYUNDAI LAUNCHES ‘VENUE’

While Mitsubishi are paring back their Pajero range ahead of a possible discontinuation of the model (see JUST 4x4s #361), the Outlander is still going strong, with new tech and comfort features being added for 2020.

“Outlander drivers are looking for an SUV they can use for their daily drive, but they can count on for their next adventure,” said Derek McIlroy, Deputy Director of Marketing and Operations.

“We’ve strengthened the range by taking customer feedback and adding additional safety, comfort and infotainment features. It’s a flexible and great value SUV.”

Safety Tech

The Forward Collision Mitigation (autonomous emergency braking) tech, previously available only on the ES ADAS (safety upgrade pack) 5-seater in the ES range, is now available on all ES variants with the 2.4 engine, meaning the entry-level Outlander ES 2.0 manual misses out.

In line with this, all ES 2.4 models also get rain sensing wipers, dusk sensing headlamps and auto dimming for the rear-view mirror.

Failing to offer any of this safety and driver convenience tech on the ES 2.0 manual presumably allows Mitsubishi to keep the starting price for their mid-sized crossover under $30,000.

Improved AWD

At the other end of the scale from the ES, the range-topping Outlander Exceed now comes with S-AWC: which includes a torque-vectoring function that allows drive to be split between wheels on the front axle.

As fitted to the Outlander Exceed, the latest version of S-AWC also comes with active yaw technology and a choice of four drive modes – AWC Eco, Normal, Snow and Gravel. The latter mode is a new addition.

Also new for the Exceed is the inclusion of speed limit information on the multi-function display, using data sourced from the Tom Tom navigation app that’s standard for this model grade.

Updating the sat nav maps is a manual process, though: drivers must download the relevant maps via USB, then upload them to the Exceed’s SDA unit.

Cabin Tech and Comfort

The central 7.0-inch infotainment screen has been upgraded to 8.0 inches for all Outlander model grades for easier touch operation.

Comfort improvements include power lumbar adjustment on the driver’s seat for all grades, with more cushioning on second-row seats, too.

Second-row passengers get a second USB port, as well as improved HVAC controls.
On all grades except the sunroof-equipped Exceed, there’s a new overhead console, which incorporates a sunglasses holder, seatbelt reminder and passenger airbag cut-off indicator.

Standard Power

Drivetrains remain unchanged, with the ES available with a 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine, matched to a five-speed manual transmission and producing 110kW and 190Nm. This 2WD five-seater is the only Outlander offered with a manual transmission.

The rest of the ES family are powered by the 2.4-litre petrol engine matched to a CVT transmission, producing 124kW and 220Nm. Both five- and seven-seat versions are available in the ES 2.4, as well as 2WD and AWD.

On the Outlander LS, the 2.4 can be optioned for a 2.2-litre turbodiesel four producing 110kW and 360Nm, matched to a conventional six-speed auto.

All LS models are seven seaters, with 2WD and AWD available.

The top-of-the-range Outlander Exceed offers the same engine/trans combinations as the LS, is only available as a seven-seater and comes exclusively with the new S-AWC version of the Mitsubishi all-wheel drive system.

(Slightly) Higher Pricing

With the spec and tech changes, Outlander pricing has risen marginally across the board, with the ES 2.0 $200 dearer, the other ES grades and all LS grades $500 dearer and the Exceed $1,000 dearer.

The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander range is in stock now. See your Mitsubishi dealer for details.