Mitsubishi Outlander 2022: large range outlined for all-new midsize SUV

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After nine long years of the exceedingly average previous model, the Mitsubishi Outlander is back feeling fitter and looking smarter than ever. 

Riding on a new platform (for Mitsubishi) – more specifically, an upgrade of the CMF-CD platform that underpins the current (and future) Nissan X-Trail and Renault Koleos midsize SUVs – the fourth-generation Outlander will launch in Australia during the final week of October before reaching showrooms in November 2021. 

Longer, wider and taller than its predecessor, the new-gen Outlander’s body rigidity has improved 26 percent up front, with overall torsional rigidity of the body up by a considerable 33 percent. 

Mitsubishi says there’s also extensive use of aluminium in the suspension, as well as on some exterior panels such as the bonnet, making the latest Outlander lighter on its feet. 

Pricing will begin at $34,490 (before on-road costs) for the entry-level ES model, which boasts classy spec upgrades such as LED headlights, a 9.0-inch central touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay (but wired Android Auto).  

Until the soon-to-be-unveiled plug-in hybrid version arrives, every new Outlander will feature a Nissan-derived PR25 2.5-litre direct-injection petrol four-cylinder producing 135kW of power and 245Nm of torque, tied to a CVT automatic transmission.

The 2022 Outlander will come with a 10 year/200,000km manufacturer’s warranty along with 10 years of capped-price servicing. 

Accessory packs and specification

Mitsubishi Australia says the entry-level ES and LS will be attractive propositions for the fleet-car market while private buyers are more likely to shop the higher-spec Aspire, Exceed and Exceed Tourer models. 

Mitsubishi stated at the car’s launch that it aims to make the higher-spec Exceed and Exceed Tourer models “class leaders in the midsize SUV space”, which is marketing waffle for the triple-diamond brand finally having a top-spec Outlander that’s classy enough to carry a top-spec price. 

You can read more about the new Outlander’s equipment specification in detail in another Chasing Cars article, though Mitsubishi did provide further information today about the new Outlander’s additional options packs. 

Three packs will be available as optional extras on the new Outlander – the Style, Adventure and Protection packs. 

The Style pack includes front and rear corner trims, side under exterior trim, bonnet emblem and body side decal for $3060.

The Adventure pack includes a nudge bar, bonnet protector, roof carrier, roof rails, luggage soft tray and boot flap for $2402.

The Protection pack features a bonnet protector, side wind deflectors, floor mats, luggage tray and cargo area scuff plate, and costs $1155.  

On the specification front, the fleet-focused Outlander ES features 18-inch alloy wheels, a 7.0-inch driver display, 9.0-inch touchscreen, dual zone climate control and 5 drive modes (6 for AWD models). 

Several safety features are standard including adaptive cruise control, blind spot warning, emergency lane change alert, lane departure warning, lane departure prevention and forward collision mitigation. 

The LS brings some key differences to the exterior such as silver roof rails, LED front fog lamps and chrome touches to the front and rear bumpers. 

Additional convenience features include wireless phone charging, a power tailgate, keyless entry, rain-sensing wipers as well as extra safety features including rear AEB and rear cross-traffic alert. 

The Aspire comes standard with larger 20-inch alloy wheels, an electric driver’s seat, a head up display and a large 12.3-inch instrument cluster. It also features a 360-degree surround-view camera. A four camera surround monitor is also included. 

The Exceed gains leather seats, a panoramic sunroof and a Bose 10-speaker sound system, as well as tri-zone climate control. 

The range-topping Exceed Tourer adds massaging seats and a two-tone interior and exterior to create a premium feel not seen before on any Outlander in Australia. 

Mitsubishi Outlander 2022: Prices in Australia 

All prices listed are before on-road costs.

• ES FWD (5 seat): $34,490 (up $2,000)
• ES AWD (5 seat): $36,990 (up $2,000)
• ES FWD (7 seat): $35,490 (up $2,000)
• LS FWD (7 seat): $37,990 (up $2,500)
• LS AWD (7 seat): $40,490 (up $2,500)
• Aspire FWD (7 seat): $41,490 (new)
• Aspire AWD (7 seat): $43,990 (new)
• Exceed AWD (7 seat): $47,990 (up $4,000)
• Exceed Tourer AWD (7 seat): $49,990 (new)