The Stylish 7 Seat off-roader - 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander
Muscat, December 16, 2013: Eleven years after it first coined the term "crossover", Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) together with General Automotive Company, the official distributors of Mitsubishi vehicles in Oman, yesterday unveiled its next embodiment of this concept with the all-new third generation Outlander.
The event took place at Shangri-la’s Barr al Jissa Resort and Spa and was attended by Mr. Toshiaki Nomura, President of Mitsubishi Motors Middle East and Africa FZE (MMMEA); Mark Tomlinson, General Manager of General Automotive Company; other senior member of the General Automotive Company management.
In addition to the official press launch in the morning, GAC also organized a Customer launch later in the day which, in addition to Toshiaki Nomura and Mark Tomlinson, was also attended by HE George Hisaeda, the Ambassador of Japan to the Sultanate of Oman; and Mr Hani Al Zubair, Chairman of Zubair Automotive Group; together with other shareholders and VIP customers.
After a total of over 950,000 vehicles sold for the first two generations since June 2001, this all-new mid-size crossover is designed for the needs of today’s modern driver – The new Outlander is a strategic, innovative and premium vehicle, developed around a versatile global platform and borne of a harmonious balancing of Low environmental impact; Advanced safety; Comfortable driving; Clever utility and Added convenience. As part of Mitsubishi Motors' enhanced model lineup, the new 2014 Outlander elevates the level of luxury, refinement and fuel economy that consumers have come to expect in the affordably-priced crossover segment.
Commenting on the launch of the new Outlander, Toshiaki Nomura said, “The Outlander has always been a popular choice for customers in the Sultanate and this all-new model offers significant advancements on what is already a successful formula. Since 2001 the Outlander has seen staggering sales worldwide and in Oman as well; and that trend looks set to continue, especially with style-conscious families desiring a versatile, premium and spacious vehicle – all of which are available from the all-new Outlander.”
With breathtaking new styling inside and out, a new engine equipped with next-generation MIVEC variable valve-timing, technologically-advanced safety features and a lightweight, aerodynamically-enhanced body, the new 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander is one of the most fuel-efficient compact CUVs with 7-passenger seating available to automotive consumers in Oman.
“The new, larger Outlander offers a very comforting sense of quiet, protection and safety to its occupants – a quality car of substance designed for long-haul travelling, it’s more economical, dynamic, safe and has outstanding environmental credentials. With this in mind, the new Outlander represents a truly segment-leading CUV,” added Mark Tomlinson.
Powered by either a refined 2.4-liter inline-4-cylinder (Outlander GLX models) or a fuel-efficient 3.0-liter V-6 (Outlander GLS model) and available with Mitsubishi Motors' outstanding All-Wheel Control (AWC) all-wheel drive system, the Japanese auto manufacturer's latest CUV offering is the ideal blend of exquisite styling, performance, ecology and comfort – all at a very affordable price point. The inclusion of this technology in the new Outlander is a showcase of Mitsubishi Motors' longstanding 4WD heritage.
Making an important contribution to the new 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander's efficiency and eco-friendly nature is a new driver-activated ECO-mode setting that is standard on all 2014 Outlander models. ECO-mode helps to further reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by optimising engine power on initial acceleration as well as the airflow volume of the air conditioning. Furthermore, when Outlander models equipped with All-Wheel Control (AWC) are driven with 4WD engaged, the driver-activated ECO-mode will allow the vehicle to function as a 2WD vehicle until sensors instantaneously reactivate the 4WD system when deemed necessary, for instance in poor road or weather conditions.
In addition to the unveiling of the stunning new Outlander, the Launch event also included an exclusive ‘Driving Experience’ where members of the Media were given the opportunity to test the capabilities of the new vehicle first both on- and off-road where they could test the advance AWC system to the fullest.
Inspired Aesthetics, Both Inside and Out
Larger, and more generous all-round than the previous generation, the new Outlander follows a clear design brief where in true Mitsubishi fashion, the key objectives were for an "engineer's car" with a "Solid – Safe – Simple" shape, blending a substantial look with clean modern surfaces.
This Mitsubishi is clearly recognized by its high flanks, raised beltline, uncluttered surfaces, and soft-contoured fenders. The all-new Outlander offers drivers and their passengers a very comforting sense of quiet protection and safety – this is a quality car of real substance, and it’s designed for the long-haul thanks its innovative design and state of the art power-train.
Understated yet assertive, the Outlander's exterior design is further enhanced by a slim front aerodynamic grille with distinctive hockey-shaped chromed strips that envelop and shield the three-diamond Mitsubishi logo, in-between the feline look of the sculptured wrap-around headlamps.
With its smooth surfaces and crisp, modern lines, the new exterior design of the 2014 Outlander lends the Japanese automobile manufacturer's latest head-turning creation an air of elevated status and sophistication more akin to crossover vehicles residing within a much loftier price point.
With such a eye-catching, thoroughly modern all-new sheet-metal design, the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander is also one of the most aerodynamically-efficient vehicles in its class and represents a full seven per cent reduction in aerodynamic drag (down to a Cd of only 0.33 - very streamlined for a crossover/SUV) when compared to the previous-generation Outlander.
Much of the credit for this wind-cheating low-drag configuration goes to the streamlined and much tidier in appearance front fascia. This new-look front end treatment emphasizes aerodynamic efficiency just as much as it does a crisp and clean design aesthetic.
Another great contributor to the new 2014 Outlander's excellent fuel economy is the extensive use of highly-tensile steel in the car's body; it now tips the scales about 200 pounds less than the body of the previous-generation vehicle.
Not to be outdone, the new 2014 Outlander's clean, contemporary-looking interior receives an entirely new makeover as well that features vastly improved premium surfaces and high-grade materials including a soft-touch instrument panel, and an attractive high-gloss piano black center console panel. In addition, the driver-centric design includes ergonomic steering wheel controls as well as high-resolution and easy-to-read instrument displays (7 Seat Only).
Helping to make the cabin exceptionally quiet is an abundant use of high-grade sound insulation material throughout the vehicle. And for additional comfort and improved ergonomics, all seven of the passenger seating sections have been completely reconfigured - with the designers paying particular attention to making the fold-flat seats (2nd and 3rd row seating sections; 2nd row is 60/40 folding while 3rd row is 50/50) easier to operate and allowing up to 128.6 cubic feet of passenger room.
Other points of refinement included at no cost to the consumer as part of the new 2014 Outlander's standard equipment package are air conditioning with micron filter; tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment; electric power steering; redesigned steering wheel with easy-to-use cruise control (where applicable) and audio system controls; premium security alarm system with remote keyless entry and engine immobilizer; an exquisite-sounding 6-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3-compatible audio system; intermittent rear wiper with washer; and halogen headlights.
In addition to its comprehensive standard features, available options for the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander include:
· Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
· Automatic front dual-zone climate control
· FUSE Hands-Free Link System® with USB/iPod ® port that features Bluetooth® phone and streaming audio capabilities with voice recognition and commands
· FAST-key passive entry system with One-touch Start/Stop (OSS) engine switch
· Rearview camera system
· Super-wide beam High-Intensity Discharge (S-HID) headlights
Chassis Redesign for Improved Ride Quality & Handling
Handling performance and ride quality have been improved thanks to numerous design changes to the suspension at all four corners of the vehicle.
The MacPherson strut suspension layout at the front of the vehicle features optimised and fine-tuned springs and shock absorbers as well as newly added front suspension subframes and strut top mounts for increased stiffness. These provide more well-balanced handling, stability and ride comfort as well as reduced noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).
The new multi-link rear suspension is an evolution of the former Outlander's design that includes new suspension arms for reduced unsprung weight, smoother suspension stroke and improved ride comfort; fine-tuned bushings within the trailing arms to lessen noise, vibration and harshness (NVH); and low-friction seals for the rear hub unit axels to help reduce wheel rolling resistance.
The new aluminum alloy wheels and tires on the 2014 Outlander are lighter than the wheels/tires fitted to the previous-generation Outlander for reduced rolling resistance and unsprung weight as well as helping to maximize fuel economy.
Choice of Two Efficient yet Capable Powertrains
The new 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander offers a choice of two highly efficient powertrains: a 2.4-liter inline-4-cylinder engine working in concert with a technologically advanced continuously-variable transmission (CVT) or a 3.0-liter V-6 mated to a refined 6-speed automatic transmission.
Designated the 4J12, the 16-valve 2.4-liter SOHC 4-cylinder engine features an aluminum engine block and the latest version of Mitsubishi Innovative Valve-timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) variable valve-lift system for maximum power production and fuel efficiency as well as reduced exhaust emissions.
The bore and stroke of the 4J12 4-cylinder engine measure 3.5 in. (88 mm) and 3.8 in. (97 mm), respectively, and has a compression ratio of 10.5:1. Horsepower is rated at 166 bhp at 6,000 rpm with torque of 162 lb.-ft. derived at 4,200 rpm.
Improvements - including a reworking of the CVT control system and new unique ratio patterns - allow the updated continuously-variable transmission (CVT) to reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions while providing additional driving enjoyment thanks to better shifting feel and smoother acceleration. Also, an all-new feature added to the new Outlander's CVT is Acceleration Control that provides better throttle response at the early stage of acceleration and postpones upshifts until later in the rev range.
The V-6 engine that powers the premium 2014 Outlander GLS model, dubbed the 6B31, is a SOHC 24-valve 3.0-liter powerplant that has achieved reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions over the outgoing engine of the same configuration, thanks to reducing friction of various internal engine components, the adoption of easily ignitable iridium spark plugs and low viscosity engine oil.
Power is routed from this silky smooth yet potent V-6 engine to the wheels via an advanced 6-speed automatic transmission. Design changes to the 6-speed AT include a new final drive ratio ideally suited to the updated V-6 engine for improved fuel economy as well as a revised torque converter for better all-around transmission performance.
This V-6 engine is rated at 224 bhp at 6,250 rpm with torque at 215 lb.-ft. at 3,750 rpm with the engine making use of a 10.5:1 compression ratio.
In addition to the implementation of a responsive Electric Power Steering system (EPS), a new high-efficiency alternator is being used that helps to reduce parasitic drag on both the 4- and 6-cylinder engines. Additionally, both the 4- and 6-cylinder engines are cradled within a newly-designed engine mounting system that reduces overall noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), with the enlarged right-hand engine mount incorporating a specially-designed hydraulic chamber that further reduces transmission noise and vibration.
As a whole, the all-new 2014 Outlander, with its fresh new design direction, emphasizes exterior aerodynamic efficiency and is accompanied by either a new 2.4l engine equipped with a new version of our advanced MIVEC continuously-variable valve lift timing system for increased fuel economy, or the proven 3.0l V6 with its upgraded power and spirited performance. But regardless of your choice, both powertrains will provide powerful acceleration - even with heavy loads on board, or when venturing off the roads altogether. In fact, the all-new 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander will be among the most powerful and most fuel-efficient compact CUVs in Oman and the only one offering full 7-passenger seating.
“The all-new Mitsubishi Outlander offers style and substance. Benefiting from advanced specifications and enhanced safety features, noise and vibration are substantially reduced and along with multi-link suspension means that passengers will enjoy a better ride experience,” added Mark. “The peaceful ride quality of the Outlander is further aided by new tyres and better positioning of sound proofing materials. And with all-new third row seating, which has been specifically engineered for this model, it now means that even more people can join you on your comfortable journey across Oman.”
Lighter than the previous Outlander model's system, the new 2014 Outlander's push-button-activated and electronically-controlled All-Wheel Control (AWC) system features three distinct driving modes - the highly fuel-efficient "AWC ECO," the standard "NORMAL" setting and the maximum traction "LOCK."
New additions to the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander's version of All-Wheel Control (AWC) include:
All-Wheel Control (AWC) ECO Mode: Increases fuel economy in all-wheel drive mode by optimizing the drive application between 2WD and 4WD, operating primarily as a front-wheel drive vehicle then switching in a split-second to all-wheel drive when numerous sensors detect it is needed (depending upon road and driving conditions).
Brake Control: Steering response and vehicle stability have been enhanced through the use of a yaw control sensor to more precisely control yaw rate by applying brake pressure on the inner wheel for improved composure.
Electric Power Steering (EPS) Control: Helps to improve stability and traction in a straight line by minimizing torque steer and front wheel slip via more precise control of the Active Front Differential (AFD).
Innovative Advanced Safety Features and Systems
The new 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander features a plethora of cutting-edge vehicle safety features as part of the stylish crossover's comprehensive standard equipment package.
Mitsubishi Motors patented Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) Body safety cell design offers an exceptional degree of protection to the vehicle's occupants by utilizing specially-designed energy absorbing sections in the body/chassis and in key areas including the engine's sub-frame and beneath the front floor section of the passenger compartment.
Additionally, potential injury to the driver's lower legs is reduced by a receding brake pedal protection design in the event of a high-speed frontal crash.
Furthermore, the new 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander's redesigned engine compartment hood and front fenders - along with a new open deck structure at the bottom of the windshield - offer pedestrians enhanced head protection in the event of a collision with the vehicle.
The 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander is available with Active Stability Control (ASC) with Traction Control Logic (TCL); Hill Start Assist (HSA); anti-lock brakes (ABS) with brake assist and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD); and dual air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) consisting of driver and passenger side dual-stage air bags.
Available in seven striking colors – Cool Silver Metallic, Cosmic Blue Pearl, Titanium Gray Metallic, Copper Metallic, White Pearl, Black Pearl or Solid White – the all-new 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander is the perfect vehicle for environmentally-conscious, active individuals or families requiring a comfortable, well-equipped and sophisticated crossover that provides the latest in advanced safety technologies, ecology and comfort.
Fittingly, the Outlander marks the beginning of a new era for MMC as its complete family of Passenger Vehicles, Crossovers and SUVs also see a gradual transition to a re-focused design language, as seen with the all-new 2014 Outlander. While still being formulated, this new design language provides for an open concept meant to be flexible enough to suit specific vehicle requirements, whilst reinforces the proud qualities of Mitsubishi's famous Three Diamond logo. This new engineering-driven design language can be understood as the new expression of Mitsubishi's near century old tradition of technology tailored for today's world.
The new Outlander is now on sale today in Mitsubishi showrooms across the Sultanate. To learn more about the new vehicle or to book a test drive visit www.exploreomanstyle.com or www.mitsubishioman.com, call 2450 0500 or visit your nearest Mitsubishi showroom from Saturday to Thursday, between 8am and 1pm or 4pm and 8pm.