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2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
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| Updated |
Jun 10, 2004 22:47:17 |
| Rating |
 465 ( -61 -13.11% ) | | Author | Sue Mead |
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Description:
2004 Mitsubishi Outlander
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2004 Mitsubishi Outlander. Built on the successful - and growing -- Lancer platform, Outlander dropped into the popular mini SUV segment a year ago.
2004 Mitsubishi Outlander. This ute's compact, sleekly urban design, more suited to the highway than the trail, remains much the same for 2004, with some minor refinements.
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2004 Mitsubishi Outlander. Outlander is available with either all-wheel or two-wheel front drive.
2004 Mitsubishi Outlander. The XLS offers an automatically-dimming mirror that displays ambient temperature and a directional compass, and a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD system.
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2004 Mitsubishi Outlander. Standard convenience features include a folding rear center armrest with cupholders, as well as child seat tethers, a 12-volt power outlet in the cargo area for small appliances and a 4-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system.
2004 Mitsubishi Outlander. Safety equipment includes driver and front passenger airbags, child seat tethers and child safety locks.
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Santa Monica, CA: It was quite good before, but it's even better now. This is the thought that comes to me as I wind my way through the early morning traffic along PCH 1. I had driven the Mitsubishi Outlander when it first came to the U.S. market, and found it appealing, especially for its price-point, when considered with its competition. I had two complaints, however: I thought it needed a bit more power and found the ride a tad noisy. Now, as I maneuvered the throttle and switched on the CD player in the newest version of the Outlander, I noticed a difference.
The yearling Outlander, Mitsubishi's contribution to the mini-SUV segment, remains largely unchanged for 2004, except for one notable alteration. Now equipped with the 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder motor that powers the company's Ralliart Lancer models, the 2004 Outlander is faster, quieter and more efficient.
Built on the successful - and growing -- Lancer platform, Outlander dropped into the popular mini SUV segment a year ago. This entry-level segment appeals to buyers who want sport utility vehicle functionality with a low price tag and a low profile. Urban dwellers, small families and active young buyers have flocked to models like the CRV and RAV4 to get the best of sport ute capabilities without the bulk of a full-sized SUV.
In 2001, carmakers worldwide experienced a 1.2 percent downturn in sales but, at the same time, a 30 percent increase in mini-ute sales. This trend has continued and, coupled with research into consumer preferences, helped prompt Japan's number-four automaker to create the Outlander.
This ute's compact, sleekly urban design, more suited to the highway than the trail, remains much the same for 2004, with some minor refinements. Its masculine front end features the same large black grille and prominent "nose" as in the 2003. Large tinted lenses with twin-bulb headlamps are accented by fog lamps set low in the front bumper; black dual-folding side view mirrors are still standard equipment.
The big change comes under the hood, where an updated 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder motor delivers 20 extra horsepower, more efficient performance, and less noise than in the previous model year. Borrowed from the all-new Lancer Sportback and Ralliart sedan and wagon models, the 2.4-liter delivers 160 horsepower and 160 lb.-ft. of torque, an improvement of horses and torque, which is boosted by about three lb.-ft., up from 157).
Variable valve timing (dubbed MIVEC by Mitsubishi) improves horsepower while increasing engine efficiency and fuel economy. The beefed up motor, matched to a transmission, clutch and shifter borrowed directly from Lancer Evolution, balances a large displacement with the MIVEC system to improve both low-end torque and high-end horsepower.
As in the past, all models come with a four-speed automatic with Sportronicâ„¢ with "Drive" mode, which behaves like a typical automatic, or "Sport" mode for manual, clutchless shifts through the shift lever. Outlander is available with either all-wheel or two-wheel front drive. The all-wheel drive system includes a torque-split regulating VCU that redistributes the normal 50-50 front-rear torque ration when traction is lost in one or more wheels.
The past iteration, with an NVH-reducing all-steel unibody structure and asphalt sheeting under the floorpan to reduce road noise, was made for a quiet ride. However, because the new engine reduced noise significantly (thus calling attention to other noises in the cockpit), Mitsubishi engineers conducted a "noise abatement program" for the 2004 model. This includes a larger resonator for the engine, more sound insulation in the engine compartment and better door sealing.
Outlander's interior remains basically untouched. Built to seat five adults, the 103.3-inch wheelbase vehicle is 57.5 inches tall from floor to ceiling, and high-density foam seats are comfortable. Rear seats split 60/40, and cargo capacity is 60.3 cu. ft. with the rear seats folded down (24.4 cu. ft. with seats upright). Cloth interior is standard on all models; leather is available as an option on the up-market XLS.
Standard convenience features include a folding rear center armrest with cupholders, as well as child seat tethers, a 12-volt power outlet in the cargo area for small appliances and a 4-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system. The XLS offers an automatically-dimming mirror that displays ambient temperature and a directional compass, and a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD system.
The suspension provides a car-like feel. In front, MacPherson struts are matched with a cross member that increases suspension mounting point stiffness by 30 percent. In the rear, a multi-link trailing arm setup improves lateral stability through stiff links and extended-length arms. Trailing arms also are wider than normal in order to match the increased width of the front track. AWD models mount the rear differential to the cross member with vibration-canceling mounts to smooth out bumps.
The braking system includes front ventilated discs and rear drums with a tandem brake booster system that helps reduce pedal effort. Optional ABS on XLS models includes Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD).
Safety equipment includes driver and front passenger airbags, child seat tethers and child safety locks. ABS is available as an option on XLS versions, as are driver and front passenger side airbags.
2004 Mitsubishi Outlander Reviewer's Notes
Base price: $18, 500 (approx.)
Engine: SOHC 2.4-liter 16-valve inline 4-cylinder
Transmission: 4-speed electronically-controlled automatic
Wheelbase: 103.3 in.
Length: 179.1 in.
Width: 68.9 in.
Height: 63.2 in. (66.3 in. - XLS)
Curb weight: 3420 lbs. (2WD), 3461 lbs. (4WD)
Towing capacity (with trailer brakes): 1500 lbs.
Fuel economy: 21/26 (2WD) 20/25 (4WD) mpg city/hwy
Safety equipment: dual front airbags, child safety tethers, crumple zones
Major standard features: air conditioning with manual climate control, dual folding side view mirrors, rear window defroster with timer, automatic transmission, power windows and locks, 4-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system, 12-volt accessory outlets, height-adjustable steering wheel
Frequently Asked Questions:
When is the 2004 Outlander on sale, how many does Mitsubishi expect to sell, and where is it built?
On sale this summer, the Outlander is built in Japan. Mitsu hopes to sell some 40,000 in North America, at prices that will range from $18, 500 to $ 24,500.
What's its best feature?
Most appealing about the Outlander is its attractive styling both inside and out and its pricing. Standard features are numerous and make even the base model a good buy.
What about its power?
An updated 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder motor delivers 20 extra horsepower and more efficient performance. Borrowed from the all-new Lancer Sportback and Ralliart sedan and wagon models, the 2.4-liter delivers 160 horsepower and 160 lb.-ft. of torque, an improvement of horses and torque, which is boosted by about three lb.-ft., up from 157). Variable valve timing (dubbed MIVEC by Mitsubishi) improves horsepower while increasing engine efficiency and fuel economy. The beefed up motor, matched to a transmission, clutch and shifter borrowed directly from Lancer Evolution, balances a large displacement with the MIVEC system to improve both low-end torque and high-end horsepower.
How does it handle?
Built for light off-roading, the newest Outlander feels energized. Its handling is sprightly in both power and maneuverability, both on the highway and on graded dirt roads. Steering feel is solid and brakes do their job. Our recommendation is for the XLS model with the option of ABS and Electronic Force Distribution for even stopping power and control.
Where does the Outlander fit in the Mitsubishi SUV line-up?
Mitsubishi now sells 4 SUV models in North America: the mini Outlander, mid-sized Endeavor and Montero Sport, and the full-sized Montero.
---Story by Sue Mead
---Photos courtesy of Mitsubishi
© 2004, Sue Mead, All Rights Reserved. |
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