2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Opens for Bookings at RM172k Introductory Price

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia has opened the order books for its all-new Outlander seven-seater SUV, quoting an introductory price of RM171,644.80 inclusive of GST, insurance, and all on-road costs. The introductory price applies for all cars booked and registered before 31 May 2016.

Slated for launch in April, the Outlander comes fully-imported from Japan. Whilst not a direct successor, the Outlander nevertheless takes over from the expensive and slow-selling Pajero Exceed as Mitsubishi's flagship SUV in Malaysia whilst complementing the more rugged Pajero Sport.

Although being a seven-seater and similarly-priced as the Pajero Sport, the Outlander is a vehicle that serves completely different needs. Unlike the Triton-based body-on-frame Pajero Sport, the Outlander is engineered with an urban bias and is underpinned by a monocoque chassis.

Direct competition for the Outlander includes the Nissan X-Trail 2.5 (RM164k), Hyundai Santa Fe 2.4 petrol (RM168k-RM189k), and Kia Sorento (RM160k).

Contrasting the diesel-powered Pajero Sport, the Outlander draws motion from Mitsubishi's 2.4-litre four-cylinder MIVEC petrol engine taken from the Lancer Sportback. Featuring an electronically-controlled 4WD as standard, the Outlander has access to outputs of 167PS and 222Nm, which it channels to its wheels via the Jatco-sourced INVECS-III CVT.

According to Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, in-house testing shows that the Outlander can be as frugal as 7.81 litres/100km, although the specific driving conditions used to achieve that figure was not elaborated upon.

Standard equipment fitted to the Outlander are as follows:

• LED headlamps with daytime running lights
• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Electric-operated tailgate with anti-trap function
• Sunroof
• Keyless entry with engine start/stop button
• Dual zone climate control
• Touchscreen multimedia system - Bluetooth, iPod, USB
• Reverse Camera
• Security & Solar Window Film
• ABS, EBD
• Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control
• 7 airbags
• Leather seats
• Auto headlamps
• Auto wipers

The list of optional accessories consist of two somewhat unusual items that would usually be standard fit. Not that we are bothered by it, but you will have to pay RM38.00 for a "MIVEC" emblem on the tailgate, and a further RM22.00 to show the world that you're driving a "2.4".

Available in three colours - Red Metallic, White Pearl, and Grey Metallic - the Outlander is backed by a five-year / 100,000km warranty.