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2007 MItsubishi Outlander Preview

Not Surprisingly On-Road Performance and Versatility Key Selling Points
       
Last month, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation unveiled its completely revised Outlander sport utility, in the metal, at the Tokyo Motor Show, previously released to the media only in photos.

Mitsubishi is claiming the all-new SUV is midsize, due to its new platform and larger overall dimensions, and possibly in Japan, where it was launched in dealerships October 17th this is so, although in North America the Outlander will be positioned as a large compact model.

Its seven-occupant capability puts it in competition with few compact SUV players, Suzukis XL-7, which is due for a complete overhaul soon, and Toyotas all-new

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation unveiled its completely revised Outlander sport utility at the Tokyo Motor Show. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors)

2006 RAV4 being the only two - so far.

Riding on a larger, stiffer chassis architecture made of high-tensile steel sheeting, which is touted to offer much better crashworthiness than the previous Outlander, is a more powerful, more efficient aluminum block 2.4-liter MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve-timing Electronic Control system) enhanced four-cylinder, a new global engine that comes as a result of

Its seven-occupant capability puts it in competition with few compact SUV players. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors)

a cooperative relationship with DaimlerChrysler (Dodge Caliber, Jeep Compass/Patriot) and Hyundai (next-generation Elantra/base Sonata and Kia Spectra/Magentis). The new engine will be mated to a "Sport Mode" paddle-shift-actuated 6-speed CVT, that in-turn will drive all four wheels. Mitsubishis 4WD system is electronically controlled, continuously optimizing front and rear wheel torque depending on road conditions. It includes three dial-activated drive modes, including 2WD, 4WD AUTO and 4WD LOCK. As is now becoming common in the SUV segment, active

Its optional 18-inch 5-spoke lightweight high-rigidity alloy rims wrapped in 225/55R18 all-season performance tires should help in the handling department too. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors)

stability control is also part of the package. The new drivetrain helps the Outlander achieve a four-star rating for emission levels, which means that it leaves 75 percent fewer emissions in its wake than required by Japanese 2005 Emission Regulations, helping it qualify for Green Vehicle Tax Exemption by returning fuel consumption that is 5 percent lower than Japanese 2010 efficiency requirements.

Other highlights include a new aluminum roof panel, to reduce weight and lower its center of gravity, plus a new MacPherson strut front and trailing arm multilink suspension with mono-tube rear shock

When the second row is folded flat, cargo volume increases to a massive 59.7 cubic feet. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors)

absorbers, which join a wider track and longer stroke to increase stability, while additional "advanced technology" Mitsubishi first developed on its famed Lancer Evolution sport sedan is also part of the package, designed to leave traditional off-road SUVs in the preverbal dust. Its optional 18-inch 5-spoke lightweight high-rigidity alloy rims wrapped in 225/55R18 all-season performance tires should help in the handling department too.

As previously mentioned, the new Outlander will be one of few compact SUVs to offer up to seven-occupant seating - that optional package dubbed Smart X Sport and featuring a third row that conveniently folds flat into the floor. That makes for class-leading storage space of between 27.3 and 31.1 cubic feet, depending on whether

Its unique for sure, but then again not so radical that less adventurous buyers will be offended. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors)

the second row of seats is slid forward or backward, when five occupants are aboard. When the second row is folded flat, via a process that Mitsubishi says takes only a flick of a switch, cargo volume increases to a massive 59.7 cubic feet.

Getting gear inside should be easier thanks to a handy split tailgate, allowing smaller items to be loaded in through the top section and larger cargo if the entire fifth door is lifted up. That bottom section can handle up to 440 pounds of what-have-you, making it ideal for heavy luggage and/or a place to sit down.

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