Similar to its japanese parent, Mitsubishi India is not in good shape and yet to make its presence felt even after flying around here for many years. While one of its Japanese peer is owning more than 50% of market the other (Honda) is aggressively expanding its market share. But still a much needed small car from Mitsubishi will take atleast two years to come true. Before that much important launch Mitsubishi wishes to build its lost image and find a niche segment for itself. After gaining decent amount of hearts with dakar rally winners Montero and Pajero Mitsubishi plans to go soft with the Outlander. Outlander is a first softroader from HM-Mitsubishi in the lines of Honda’s CR-Vand Chevrolet Captiva. But unlike its competetiors Outlander will be locally assembled and Mitsubishi – Hindustan hopes the cost advantage will give its an edge over the others.
Hindustan – Mitsubishi Outlander: As typical of any softroader this Mitsu has a long bonnet, rakish windscreen and curved roof. To claim it as a SUV and not a car there are bits of rugged skid plate all over the Outlander. The two slatted grille with the central mounted Mitusbishi logo sharp edged headlamps gives a bold look at the front. The roofline which peaks over the driver’s head and slopes towards the rear evokes athletic style of a sedan. What’s cool about this outlander is its tail section – the LED tail lights and distinct rear windscreen gives a distinctive look for the outlander.
Hindustan – Mitsubishi Outlander: uses an enhanced global engine (truly global) developed jointly with Hyundai and DaimlerChrysler. The engine is currently servicing in Dodge Caliber, Jeep Compass, Kia Spectra and well known Hyundai Sonata Embera. Mitsubishi’s spruced up 2.4-liter MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve-timing Electronic Control system) engine churns out 170bhp of max power and 230Nm of max torque at 4100 rpm. Mitsubishi will offer a five speed manual and a “Sport Mode” paddle-shift-actuated 6-speed CVT. However there will not be any diesel option.
Hindustan – Mitsubishi Outlander: Though its meant run on tarmac, Mitsubishi’s electronically controlled 4WD system will continuously optimize front and rear wheel torque depending on road conditions. It includes three dial-activated drive modes – 2WD, 4WD AUTO and 4WD LOCK. MacPherson strut front and trailing arm multilink suspension with mono-tube rear shock absorbers with a new technology for better stability sourced from Lancer evolution would be part of the Outlander package.
Hindustan – Mitsubishi Outlander: The seven seater Outlander will become a five seater and get a spare wheel when comes to India. As the tail gate is built into the bumper, a small section of the hatch flip outwards to facilitate faster loading of cargo, similar to what we seen in BMW X5.
Hindustan – Mitsubishi Outlander: will be out in first week of October and expected to be priced between Rs18 – Rs20 lakhs (as the Outlander will be assembled at Hindustan Motors Chennai plant). Hindustan Outlander will compete with Honda’s CR-V and Chevrolet Captiva.
