Mitsubishi Outlander GT

The AM Take

Pub. 2010-02-16

The Mitsubishi Outlander has been on the market since 2003, undergoing a total makeover in 2007 as it went from more of a wagon to a crossover utility vehicle. For the 2010 model year, the Outlander has undergone a midlife face-lift, gaining the automaker’s signature front treatment that includes a large and dominant front grille. If that grille reminds you of the one found on the Lancer Evo, there is a good reason for that. The grille on the Outlander is based on that of the Evo. Another part of the overhaul for 2010 includes a new colour MFD dashboard display and the Mitsubishi S-AWC AWD system, which is also from the Lancer Evo. The Outlander comes in several trims, starting with the ES and its 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder engine and a price of around £14,000

Our tester was at the top of the Outlander scale. We were handed the keys to a GT model powered by a 3.0-litre V6 delivering 230 horses with a price tag of £19,000.

Once you add up the options included in our tester -- including the navigation and leather package, backup camera and backup sensors -- the price hits £21,400. One of the nicest elements among the standard features of the GT is the 710-Watt Rockford Fosgate audio system with nine speakers -- this is something we definitely wouldn't skimp on when trying to cut back on costs.

Performance

The Outlander, as mentioned, comes with the choice of two engines. We were driving the more powerful V6, which is mated to a smooth 6-speed sportronic automatic transmission. The GT tester also comes with paddle shifters, a feature that has yet to win us over, no matter what car we're in.

The Outlander’s engine/transmission combo works well together, with quick acceleration off the line and smooth transitions through the gears. Unfortunately, we weren't able to put Mitsubishi’s Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system to the test as the weather was unseasonably sunny and snow-free during our week testing the Outlander in the Great White North. However, if and when you do need to call upon the system, there is a dial between the front seats that allows you to select between three settings: tarmac, snow or lock.

Design

As mentioned earlier, the Outlander underwent a midlife redesign for 2010, and the results are not displeasing to the eye. Even though some might not like the front end treatment, it definitely makes the Outlander stand out among some of the competition who have more subdued front ends.

The integrated fog light in the fascia complete the look and we really liked the treatment chosen for the tail lights on the Outlander as well. The interior of the Mits is comfortable, but we did not like the controls for the radio and navigation systems. Unlike some automakers, Mitsubishi designers kept three large dials to control the ventilation system, something they should be applauded for. Something they should not be congratulated on, however, is the placement of the switch for the heated seats. Almost like an afterthought, they are placed awkwardly on the side of the driver and passenger seats, way too close to the seat belt, making them difficult to reach and operate, especially with thick winter gloves on, which is when you'd undoubtedly need to use the seat heaters the most. However, other than that, there is little to complain about on the inside and outside of the Outlander.